What are the symptoms and treatment methods for a 4-month-old baby with enteritis?

Symptoms of enteritis in a 4-month-old baby include diarrhea, vomiting, fever, lethargy, abdominal distension, and others. Treatments include fluid replacement to prevent dehydration, adjustment of feeding, symptomatic medication, anti-infective therapy, and protection of the intestinal mucosa. Timely intervention is necessary to prevent worsening of the condition. If the baby shows signs of severe dehydration, persistent high fever, or bloody stools, immediate medical attention is recommended.

I. Symptoms

1. Diarrhea: Increased frequency of bowel movements, ranging from several to dozens per day. The stool is watery or resembles egg-drop soup, possibly containing mucus or small milk curds, and is typically yellow or yellowish-green in color.

2. Vomiting: The baby may vomit easily after feeding. The vomitus usually consists of undigested milk. In severe cases, frequent vomiting may occur, even affecting normal feeding.

3. Fever: Usually low-grade or moderate fever with body temperature between 37.5°C and 39°C. Some viral infections causing enteritis may lead to high fever.

4. Lethargy: Due to energy loss from diarrhea and vomiting, the baby may appear listless, sleepy, irritable, and show reduced interest in feeding or toys.

5. Abdominal distension: Increased gas production or digestive dysfunction can cause abdominal bloating and tightness. The baby may cry persistently and draw their legs up toward the abdomen due to discomfort.

II. Treatment Methods

1. Fluid replacement to prevent dehydration: Mild dehydration can be managed with oral rehydration salts given in small amounts frequently. Severe dehydration requires intravenous fluid administration to rapidly restore fluids and electrolytes and prevent shock.

2. Adjust feeding: Breastfeeding should continue on demand. For formula-fed babies, the milk may be slightly diluted or switched to a lactose-free formula to reduce the digestive burden on the gut.

3. Symptomatic medication: In cases of severe diarrhea, medications such as smectite powder may be used under medical guidance to protect the intestinal mucosa; probiotics can help regulate intestinal flora; physical cooling or doctor-prescribed antipyretics may be used for high fever.

4. Anti-infective treatment: Bacterial enteritis requires antibiotics based on drug sensitivity results. Viral enteritis is generally managed with supportive and symptomatic care, and antibiotics should not be used indiscriminately.

5. Protect intestinal mucosa: Avoid using irritating medications. Reduce intestinal irritation through light diet, regular routines, and promote mucosal healing to restore normal intestinal function.

Ensure cleanliness of nipples or bottle nipples during feeding, and clean the baby’s mouth promptly after feeding. After each bowel movement, wash the baby’s buttocks with warm water and dry thoroughly to keep the area dry. Keep the abdomen warm to avoid chilling, which could worsen symptoms, thus supporting the baby's recovery.