Diarrhea in infants

Diarrhea in infants: Causes, dehydration risk, and treatment

Diarrhea, or loose stools, in infants (children aged 3 to 12 months) is a condition characterized by a sudden increase in frequency and liquidity of bowel movements. Unlike newborns, the stool in infants, especially after the introduction of complementary foods, is already more formed, making diarrhea easier to recognize. It is one of the most common symptoms in pediatrics, and the main danger it poses is the risk of rapid dehydration.

Most common causes of diarrhea

• Viral infections (gastroenteritis). This is the number one cause. Rotaviruses, noroviruses, adenoviruses — these pathogens are easily transmitted by contact (especially when the child starts crawling and puts everything in the mouth) and cause intestinal inflammation. Usually, besides diarrhea, there are vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain.
• Bacterial infections. Salmonella, Escherichia coli and other bacteria can also cause diarrhea, often with blood or mucus in the stools.
• Reaction to new foods. Introduction of complementary feeding, especially fruits with a laxative effect (plums, apricots) or juices, can cause temporary stool loosening.
• Food allergy. An allergic reaction, most often to cow's milk protein, can manifest as chronic diarrhea.
• Antibiotic use. Antibiotics can disrupt the balance of gut microflora, leading to diarrhea.

Main danger — dehydration

With watery stools the child loses a large amount of water and electrolytes. Due to low body weight and rapid metabolism, a critical level of dehydration in infants can develop very quickly. It is important to know its signs:

• Reduced number of wet diapers (fewer than 4-5 wet diapers per day).
• Dark, concentrated urine.
• Dry mouth, crying without tears.
• Lethargy, sleepiness.
• Swollen fontanelle.

When signs of dehydration appear, it is necessary to seek medical attention immediately. The basis of diarrhea treatment is not to stop the stools, but to adequately replace lost fluids — frequent breastfeeding, feeding with formula, or using special oral rehydration solutions.