What causes fever and diarrhea in infants?

Generally speaking, fever refers to an elevated body temperature, and diarrhea refers to loose or watery stools. Fever and diarrhea in infants may be caused by temperature regulation issues, physiological increases in intestinal motility, upper respiratory tract infections, rotavirus infection, bacterial enteritis, and other factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and follow the guidance of a physician for treatment. A detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Temperature Regulation

The thermoregulatory center in infants is not yet fully developed, making them susceptible to environmental influences that cause temperature fluctuations. At the same time, their digestive system is relatively delicate and prone to indigestion. When infants are exposed to environments with fluctuating temperatures or consume indigestible food, they may experience both fever and diarrhea. Maintain a suitable and stable ambient temperature for the infant, avoid sudden temperature changes, and ensure proper feeding with easily digestible, nutritionally rich foods, avoiding overfeeding or underfeeding.

2. Physiological Increase in Bowel Motility

Due to physiological reasons, bowel motility in infants may temporarily increase during their growth and development, leading to increased frequency of bowel movements. If accompanied by mild infection or intestinal irritation, diarrhea may occur. Additionally, increased bowel motility may be accompanied by a slight rise in body temperature, manifesting as a low-grade fever. Keep the infant's abdomen warm to avoid cold exposure, and regularly monitor bowel movements, adjusting feeding methods as needed.

3. Upper Respiratory Tract Infection

Upper respiratory tract infections are usually caused by viruses or bacteria, which may subsequently affect the gastrointestinal tract. These infections can trigger an immune response in the body, leading to fever. At the same time, viruses or bacteria may affect the gastrointestinal tract through the bloodstream or lymphatic system, causing diarrhea. Symptoms may include nasal congestion, runny nose, and cough. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as pediatric paracetamol, chlorpheniramine, and artificial cow-bezoar for symptomatic relief, ribavirin granules, or amoxicillin capsules may be used for treatment.

4. Rotavirus Infection

Rotavirus infection may result from viral transmission. The infection damages the intestinal mucosa, leading to loss of water and electrolytes, thus causing diarrhea. At the same time, the viral infection can trigger an immune response in the body, resulting in fever. Associated symptoms may include vomiting, abdominal pain, and dehydration. Under a doctor's recommendation, oral rehydration salts, montmorillonite powder, and probiotics such as Bifidobacterium quadruple viable tablets may be used for treatment.

5. Bacterial Enteritis

Bacterial enteritis may be related to consumption of contaminated food. After invading the intestines, bacteria multiply rapidly, producing toxins that damage the intestinal mucosa, resulting in diarrhea. Additionally, the bacteria and their toxins can cause a systemic inflammatory response, leading to fever. Symptoms may also include abdominal pain, bloating, and tenesmus. Follow medical advice to use antibiotics such as amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium granules, cefixime granules, or norfloxacin capsules for treatment.

In daily life, attention should be paid to the hygiene of the infant's diet to avoid contaminated food, and infant items should be cleaned regularly. Appropriate outdoor activities should also be encouraged to enhance the infant's immunity and reduce the risk of infections.