Tweet
	Diarrhea is defined as frequent, loose bowel movements. It can be dangerous because it can lead to dehydration.

• Signs and symptoms of dehydration:
  • Irritability
  • Listlessness/lethargic
  • Increased heart rate and breathing
  • Less frequent urination
  • Dry skin
  • Dry mouth and lips
  • Sunken eyes
  • Sunken “soft spot” on head
  • Skin that does not bounce back when pinched and released
  
  
• Treatment/prevention of dehydration:
  • Remember giving liquids is very important.
  • May give Pedialyte.
  • Diet recommendations vary from among pediatricians. Talk with your pediatrician for his/her recommendation. Here are some thoughts on diet recommendations for diarrhea:
    • If not vomiting:
      • Provide a lactose-free diet. Example: change formula to Isomil DF (Diarrhea Formula).
      • Or feed right through by allowing your baby to eat and drink whatever he/she wants.
    • For babies that are eating solids:
      • Offer high fat and high fiber diet.
      • Offer BRAT (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) diet.
      • Offer yogurt with probiotics (or probiotic supplements).
  • Notify your pediatrician if:
    • Baby is under 3 months old.
    • If there is blood or mucous present in stool.
    • If the stool looks like grape jelly.
    • If baby is difficult to arouse (lethargic).
    • Does not urinate at least 3 times in 24 hours.

Be sure to like, comment and share Babies 411 content with your friends to help keep babies healthy and safe.

Author : Diba Tillery RN, BSN, IBCLC, CPST