What are the symptoms of diarrhea in infants?

The symptoms of infantile diarrhea vary, and specific manifestations include:

1. Increased frequency of bowel movements: Normally, infants have about 1–4 bowel movements per day, but during diarrhea, this may increase to more than five times daily, and in severe cases, can reach dozens of times.

2. Changes in stool characteristics: The stool becomes loose, watery, or resembles egg drop soup. Its color may be yellow, green, or brown, and it may contain mucus. Undigested food particles may also be present. Abdominal distension and increased bowel sounds may occur simultaneously.

3. Abdominal pain and discomfort: Infants may display irritability, crying, restlessness, or body curling, indicating abdominal discomfort.

4. Signs of dehydration: Excessive fluid loss due to diarrhea manifests as thirst, dry skin and lips, reduced urine output, decreased skin turgor, and sunken eyes.

5. Other symptoms: Some infants may experience low or high fever along with diarrhea. Some may develop vomiting concurrently. The child may display lethargy, poor appetite, drowsiness, irritability, and, in severe cases, seizures or coma may occur.

If an infant exhibits the above symptoms, especially high fever, bloody stools, or persistent vomiting, immediate medical attention should be sought.