How to Determine the Cause of Diarrhea in Newborns

Generally, the main causes of neonatal diarrhea include improper feeding, indigestion, lactose intolerance, bacterial infection, and viral infection. These conditions can be identified based on specific clinical manifestations. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Improper Feeding

Excessive feeding frequency, excessive milk volume, or formula that is too concentrated or too cold can increase the gastrointestinal burden in newborns, leading to gastrointestinal dysfunction and diarrhea. Adjust feeding methods accordingly, feed on demand, avoid overfeeding, strictly follow the instructions for formula preparation, and ensure the milk is at an appropriate temperature.

2. Indigestion

The digestive system of newborns is not fully developed, and insufficient secretion of digestive enzymes may lead to inadequate digestion and absorption of milk when intake exceeds digestive capacity, resulting in diarrhea. Reduce the volume of each feeding and increase feeding frequency. Under medical guidance, probiotics such as Bacillus subtilis and Bifidobacterium live bacterial granules, Bifidobacterium triple viable powder, or Clostridium butyricum live bacterial powder may be used to regulate intestinal flora and improve digestive function.

3. Lactose Intolerance

Insufficient or reduced activity of lactase in the newborn's intestine prevents complete digestion of lactose in milk. Lactose fermentation in the intestines produces gas and acidic substances, which stimulate increased intestinal motility and cause diarrhea. Under medical guidance, switch to low-lactose formula or add lactase drops during feeding to aid lactose digestion.

4. Bacterial Infection

Infections caused by bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Salmonella can damage the intestinal mucosa, cause intestinal inflammation, and lead to abnormal intestinal motility and diarrhea, often accompanied by symptoms such as fever and vomiting. Under medical guidance, medications such as cefixime granules, amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium dry suspension, and montmorillonite powder may be used to inhibit bacterial proliferation, protect the intestinal mucosa, and alleviate diarrhea symptoms.

5. Viral Infection

Viruses such as rotavirus and norovirus invade the intestines, damaging mucosal cells and affecting intestinal absorption and digestion functions, leading to diarrhea, often characterized by watery or egg-drop soup-like stools. It is important to replenish fluids to prevent dehydration. Under medical guidance, oral rehydration salts III, quadruple probiotic tablets containing Bifidobacterium, and ribavirin granules may be used to correct water and electrolyte imbalances, regulate intestinal flora, and inhibit viral replication.

In daily life, maintain cleanliness and disinfection of feeding equipment such as bottles and nipples; wash hands frequently to avoid cross-infection; ensure adequate abdominal warmth for the newborn to prevent cold exposure; closely monitor the newborn's mental status, urine output, and seek medical attention promptly if abnormalities occur.