What causes thick, greenish-yellow stool in newborns and how to manage it?
Nov 08, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, thick yellow-green stool in newborns can be a normal physiological phenomenon, or may be caused by improper feeding, allergies, lactose intolerance, intestinal infection, and other factors. Appropriate management should be implemented according to the specific situation. Parents should closely monitor their newborn's stool condition in daily care. If abnormal changes in stool color or texture are noticed, the cause should be promptly analyzed and corresponding measures taken.
Generally, the viscous yellow-green stool in newborns can be caused by normal physiological phenomena, improper feeding, allergies, lactose intolerance, intestinal infections, and other factors. Appropriate management should be based on specific situations.
1. Normal physiological phenomenon: The newborn's intestinal function is gradually adapting to the external environment. The biliverdin in bile has not yet been completely converted into bilirubin, resulting in yellow-green and relatively viscous stools. As the newborn's intestinal function further improves, the stool color will gradually turn to normal yellow.
2. Improper feeding: If feeding with formula milk, a high concentration of formula or switching to a different brand of formula may cause indigestion in the baby, resulting in viscous yellow-green stools. It is recommended to strictly follow the mixing ratio specified in the formula instructions to avoid excessive concentration of the formula.
3. Allergy: Newborns may be allergic to certain proteins in breast milk or cow's milk protein in formula, leading to intestinal allergic reactions and causing viscous yellow-green stools. Parents should avoid foods that may trigger allergies in the baby and seek timely medical attention for relevant tests to identify the allergen.
4. Lactose intolerance: Some newborns lack the lactase enzyme needed to break down lactose, making it difficult to fully digest lactose in breast milk or formula. Undigested lactose is fermented and broken down by bacteria in the intestine, producing gas and acidic substances, leading to increased stool frequency, yellow-green color, and viscosity. It is recommended to use lactase supplements under a doctor's guidance to aid lactose digestion.
5. Intestinal infection: Newborns have weaker intestinal immunity and are susceptible to bacterial or viral infections, which can cause changes in stool color and texture becoming more viscous. The baby may also experience symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, and vomiting. In such cases, prompt medical attention is required for routine stool tests and other examinations. Treatment with medications like Xiyanping Injection and Bifidobacterium Triple Live Powder may be initiated under medical guidance.
Parents should closely monitor the newborn's stool condition, including color, consistency, and frequency. If abnormal changes in stool color or consistency are observed, timely analysis of the causes and appropriate measures should be taken.
