What should I do if my six-month-old baby has diarrhea?

Jul 04, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My baby is only six and a half months old. Recently, he has been experiencing frequent diarrhea, which has made me very anxious. I would like to ask the doctor, what should I do about a six-month-old baby having diarrhea?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Diarrhea in a six-month-old baby can be caused by various factors, such as indigestion, viral infection, allergic reaction, or mild bacterial infection. Below are some basic management steps: 1. Maintain hydration: Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so ensure the baby drinks small amounts of water frequently. Oral rehydration solutions can be used to replace lost electrolytes. 2. Adjust diet: If the baby has started on complementary foods, temporarily stop introducing new foods. Offer easily digestible foods such as rice porridge and banana puree, but avoid high-sugar or greasy foods. 3. Monitor bowel movements: Keep track of the baby's frequency and characteristics of bowel movements to provide detailed information to the doctor. Seek immediate medical attention from a pediatrician if symptoms such as fever, vomiting, drowsiness, reduced urine output, or blood in the stool occur.