Can infant fever cause diarrhea, and why?

Jan 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
Infant fever may cause diarrhea, which is usually related to factors such as body temperature regulation imbalance, dietary factors, gastrointestinal colds, rotavirus infection, and bacterial enteritis. These factors may increase the burden on the gastrointestinal system, affect digestion, or irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa, thereby causing diarrhea. It is recommended to select appropriate treatments promptly based on the underlying cause, such as general management or medication therapy.

Generally speaking, diarrhea refers to loose or watery stools. Infant fever may cause diarrhea, which is usually associated with factors such as body temperature dysregulation, dietary factors, gastroenteric cold, rotavirus infection, bacterial enteritis, and others. If symptoms are severe, timely medical attention is necessary. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Body Temperature Regulation Imbalance

During fever, the body accelerates heat dissipation through increased excretion, and intestinal motility also increases, which may lead to diarrhea. Promptly improve the infant's living environment and clothing to avoid overheating, which could worsen symptoms.

2. Dietary Factors

If the infant's diet is improper during fever and they consume greasy, hard-to-digest foods for prolonged periods, it may increase gastrointestinal burden and induce diarrhea. It is recommended to reduce food intake appropriately and choose bland, mild, and easily digestible foods.

3. Gastroenteric Cold

Gastroenteric cold is usually caused by Coxsackievirus infection. Failure to promptly eliminate this pathogen may irritate the intestinal mucosa, leading to diarrhea and fever. Symptoms may include coughing and runny nose. After diagnosis, follow medical advice to use medications such as ribavirin granules, antiviral granules, and ibuprofen suspension for treatment.

4. Rotavirus Infection

Rotavirus infection is one of the common causes of diarrhea. Repeated viral irritation may elevate body temperature and is often accompanied by symptoms such as vomiting and dehydration. Follow medical instructions promptly to use medications such as smectite powder, Bifidobacterium triple viable powder, and oral rehydration salts (Ⅰ) for treatment.

5. Bacterial Enteritis

Bacterial enteritis is commonly associated with infections caused by bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Salmonella. Repeated bacterial irritation of the body and intestines may lead to the above-mentioned discomforts, often accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal pain and bloating. It is recommended to follow medical guidance and use medications such as cefixime granules, amoxicillin clavulanate potassium granules, and gentamicin sulfate granules for treatment.

Notably, when infants experience fever and diarrhea, promptly improve their living environment and regulate indoor temperature and humidity. Additionally, maintain anal hygiene and it is recommended to wash the area with warm water after each bowel movement.

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