Understanding the Causes and How to Care for Your Baby
It’s normal to be concerned when your baby has diarrhea. Their digestive systems are still developing, and changes in their stools can happen frequently. While diarrhea can sometimes be a sign of a more serious issue, it’s often due to harmless causes that can be managed at home. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the common reasons for diarrhea in babies, how to identify them, and when you should reach out to your pediatrician.
💩 What Is Diarrhea in Babies?
Diarrhea in babies is defined as having more frequent, watery stools than usual. It may be accompanied by other symptoms such as:
- Abdominal discomfort (e.g., crying, pulling legs up)
- Increased fussiness
- Changes in feeding patterns
Keep in mind that newborns’ stools can vary greatly depending on whether they’re breastfed, formula-fed, or starting solids. However, diarrhea is typically more runny or liquid-like than usual, and there may be a change in frequency or consistency.
🦠 Common Causes of Diarrhea in Babies
1. Viral Infections
The most common cause of diarrhea in babies is a viral infection, such as:
- Rotavirus: A viral infection that causes watery diarrhea, vomiting, and sometimes fever. It’s common in infants and toddlers and spreads easily.
- Norovirus: Another viral infection that can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps.
These infections often resolve within a few days but can cause dehydration, so it’s important to keep your baby hydrated.
2. Bacterial Infections
Bacterial infections, while less common, can also lead to diarrhea. Some bacteria, such as Salmonella, E. coli, or Campylobacter, may cause more severe diarrhea and often come with vomiting or fever.
Bacterial infections often require medical attention, and your pediatrician may need to do tests to determine the cause.
3. Antibiotics
If your baby has recently been on antibiotics, this can disrupt their gut flora, leading to antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Antibiotics can kill both good and bad bacteria in the gut, causing an imbalance that can result in diarrhea.
This is usually temporary, and diarrhea typically resolves once the course of antibiotics is finished.
4. Dietary Changes
Changes in your baby’s diet can also trigger diarrhea. For instance:
- Introducing solids: As babies start eating solid foods around 6 months of age, their digestive system may need time to adjust, leading to occasional diarrhea.
- New formula or breast milk: Switching formulas or introducing new foods can lead to temporary digestive upset.
- Breastfeeding: Some babies may have a sensitivity to certain foods in their mother’s diet (e.g., dairy or caffeine), which can cause diarrhea.
5. Food Allergies or Intolerances
Food allergies, particularly to cow’s milk or soy, can cause diarrhea along with other symptoms such as rash, vomiting, or trouble breathing. If you suspect a food allergy or intolerance, consult your pediatrician to discuss an elimination diet or testing options.
6. Teething
Believe it or not, teething can cause mild diarrhea in some babies. This is likely due to increased saliva production, which your baby may swallow, irritating their stomach. The diarrhea related to teething is usually mild and resolves on its own.
💡 How to Care for Your Baby with Diarrhea
1. Keep Them Hydrated
Diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration, which can be dangerous for babies. Make sure your baby continues to feed frequently, whether through breast milk or formula. For older babies, small sips of water or an electrolyte solution like Pedialyte may be recommended by your pediatrician.
2. Continue Feeding
If you’re breastfeeding, continue offering the breast as usual. Breast milk helps hydrate your baby and can support their immune system during illness. If you’re formula-feeding, keep offering formula in small, frequent amounts.
3. Monitor for Signs of Dehydration
Signs of dehydration include:
- Fewer wet diapers (fewer than 4–6 per day)
- Dry mouth or lips
- Sunken eyes or fontanel (soft spot on the head)
- Unusually sleepy or lethargic behavior
If you notice any of these signs, contact your pediatrician immediately.
4. Maintain a Clean Bottom
Frequent diarrhea can irritate your baby’s skin, leading to a rash or discomfort. Make sure to change diapers frequently and gently clean the area with water or baby wipes designed for sensitive skin. You can also apply a thick layer of diaper cream to protect their skin.
🏥 When to Call the Pediatrician
While diarrhea is often mild and self-limiting, there are times when it requires medical attention:
- Signs of dehydration (as mentioned above)
- Blood or mucus in the stool: This can indicate an infection or other gastrointestinal issue.
- Persistent diarrhea lasting more than 2–3 days
- Fever that’s over 100.4°F (38°C)
- Extreme irritability, lethargy, or difficulty feeding
- If your baby is younger than 6 months and has diarrhea
Your pediatrician will help determine if further testing or treatment is necessary.
🧠 Final Thoughts
Diarrhea is a common issue for babies and can often be managed at home with proper care. Most of the time, it’s caused by a viral infection, dietary changes, or teething, and it resolves on its own. However, keeping your baby hydrated and watching for signs of dehydration are crucial.
If you’re ever in doubt or if your baby’s symptoms seem more severe, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician for guidance.
Reference:
Diarrhea (0-12 Months) – Seattle Children’s Hospital
Baby Diarrhea: Causes, Treatment & When to Worry – Cleveland Clinic
Infant diarrhea: Home treatments and when to contact a doctor – Medical News Today
