What should I do if my one-and-a-half-year-old baby has diarrhea?

Diarrhea refers to loose, watery stools. Diarrhea in a one-and-a-half-year-old child may be caused by food intolerance, dietary adjustments during the weaning period, a chilled abdomen, indigestion, bacterial enteritis, and other factors. Management should be based on the specific situation. Parents are advised to take the child to the hospital promptly for diagnosis and follow medical guidance for appropriate treatment.

1. Food intolerance: The digestive system of a one-and-a-half-year-old child is not yet fully mature. The child may be intolerant to certain foods, which can damage the intestinal mucosa and cause diarrhea. Parents should identify and avoid foods that cause intolerance. For example, if the child is lactose intolerant, intake of dairy products should be reduced.

2. Dietary adjustments during the weaning period: A one-and-a-half-year-old child is transitioning from breast milk or formula to solid foods. Sudden changes in diet may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Parents are advised to introduce new foods gradually and avoid abruptly replacing multiple food types at once, allowing the child's intestines time to adjust.

3. Chilled abdomen: A chilled abdomen can lead to intestinal dysfunction, affecting digestion and absorption, and causing diarrhea. Applying a warm water bag to the child's abdomen may help relieve intestinal spasms and discomfort. Additionally, parents should ensure appropriate dressing of the child to prevent further chilling of the abdomen.

4. Indigestion: Digestive problems in infants may result from improper diet or imbalances in intestinal flora. Food remaining in the intestine for extended periods can cause intestinal inflammation and diarrhea, possibly accompanied by bloating, belching, and loss of appetite. Parents may administer medications such as Baohewan (Preserved Harmony Pills), Fei'er Pills, or Xiaoshi Pills for children under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.

5. Bacterial enteritis: This condition is caused by bacterial infection. Bacteria invade the intestines, multiply, and release toxins that damage the intestinal mucosa, disrupt intestinal function, and cause diarrhea, which may be accompanied by high fever, abdominal pain, and bloody stools. Parents may follow medical advice to administer medications such as Cefixime granules, Amoxicillin capsules, or Enteritis安宁 granules to improve the condition.

Parents should closely monitor the child's health status, maintain a balanced diet, and promote good hygiene practices to prevent diarrhea.