Tips for Preventing Dehydration in Babies:

• Encourage frequent breastfeeding or formula feeding to prevent dehydration.
• Monitor your baby’s urine output – fewer wet diapers could be a sign of dehydration.
• Avoid giving your baby plain water as it can dilute the electrolytes in their body.
• If your baby is showing signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, no tears when crying, or sunken eyes, seek medical attention immediately.

Additional Recommendations:

It is important to follow your healthcare provider’s advice on how to manage dehydration in babies. If your baby’s condition does not improve or worsens, seek medical help promptly. Remember that prevention is key in maintaining your baby’s health and well-being.

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider

If concerning symptoms like blood in stool or persistent fever are observed, contact your child’s healthcare provider immediately.

References

For further medical information, refer to the provided sources:

• 1. Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/
• 2. WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/
• 3. CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/

Updates and Accreditations

Health content is reviewed by authorized healthcare professionals. Accreditation by URAC ensures the quality and reliability of the information.

Diarrhea in infants is typically temporary and resolves on its own. Focus on managing symptoms and ensuring your child remains hydrated.

Preventing Dehydration

To prevent dehydration, offer plenty of fluids. Stick to regular formula preparation without diluting it.

It’s important to monitor your child’s fluid intake, especially during hot weather or if they are sick with vomiting or diarrhea. Signs of dehydration in infants and young children may include dry mouth, crying without tears, sunken eyes, and decreased urine output. If you suspect dehydration, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Introducing Gentle Foods

If your baby can consume solid foods, opt for gentle and easily digestible options like bananas or pasta. Avoid sugary beverages.

Preventing Diaper Rash

Change diapers promptly, cleanse gently with a damp cloth, and allow the diaper area to completely dry before putting on a fresh diaper.

• Apply a diaper cream during each change.

Remember to wash your hands after each diaper change to prevent infections.

4. Ask your healthcare provider about over-the-counter medications

Over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications are typically not recommended for babies. If your child has a fever, your healthcare provider might suggest an over-the-counter pain reliever and fever reducer.

It is important to always consult with your healthcare provider before giving your child any over-the-counter medications. They can provide guidance on the appropriate dosage and whether the medication is safe for your child based on their age and medical history.
In addition, certain over-the-counter medications may interact with other medications your child is taking, so it’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider of all medications your child is currently using.
Remember, when it comes to your child’s health, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Trust your healthcare provider’s advice and always seek professional guidance before giving any medication to your child.

5. Offer an oral rehydration solution as needed

Your healthcare provider may advise giving your child an oral rehydration solution like Pedialyte to prevent dehydration.

Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are a mixture of water, salt, and sugar that can help replace fluids and electrolytes lost due to vomiting or diarrhea. These solutions are especially important for young children, as they are more susceptible to dehydration.

Pedialyte, a commonly used ORS, comes in various flavors to make it more palatable for children. It is important to follow the instructions provided on the packaging or those given by your healthcare provider to ensure proper rehydration.

If your child is unable to keep down fluids or is showing signs of severe dehydration, such as sunken eyes, extreme thirst, or lethargy, seek medical attention immediately.

When is diarrhea in babies a cause for concern?

In most instances, a baby’s diarrhea will resolve on its own. Contact your healthcare provider if your baby is under 3 months old or shows concerning signs.

Signs of concern:

• Persistent diarrhea lasting more than a few days
• Bloody or black stools
• Fever above 102°F
• Signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, crying without tears, or decreased urine output

Diarrhea is common in children under five years old. Treatment approaches vary based on the cause and severity. It is essential to monitor your child’s hydration and consult with Vickery Pediatrics if you notice any worrisome symptoms.

What Is Diarrhea?

Diarrhea is characterized by increased loose stools and bowel movements, often due to a viral infection. Avoid using medications to halt diarrhea in children.

Additional Tips for Managing Diarrhea:

• Encourage your child to rest and avoid strenuous activities.
• Monitor their symptoms closely and contact a healthcare provider if the diarrhea persists for more than a few days.
• Avoid giving over-the-counter medications without consulting a doctor first.
• Make sure your child washes their hands frequently to prevent spreading the infection.
• If your child is experiencing severe dehydration, seek medical help immediately.

When to Seek Medical Attention:

• If your child is under 6 months old and has diarrhea.
• If your child has severe abdominal pain or a high fever.
• If your child’s diarrhea is accompanied by bloody stools.
• If your child shows signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, sunken eyes, or decreased urine output.

It’s important to follow these guidelines to ensure your child’s prompt recovery from diarrhea. Remember to consult a healthcare provider if you have any concerns about your child’s condition.

What Else Do I Need to Know About Treating Diarrhea?

Avoid administering medications to stop diarrhea without consulting a doctor. Address vomiting first, if present. Maintain regular handwashing to prevent the spread of contagion.

It is important to stay hydrated when experiencing diarrhea, as excessive fluid loss can lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of water and consider oral rehydration solutions to replenish electrolytes.

Eat light and easily digestible foods, such as bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (BRAT diet), to help alleviate diarrhea symptoms. Avoid dairy products, greasy or spicy foods, and caffeine until symptoms improve.

If diarrhea persists for more than a few days, or if you experience severe abdominal pain, bloody stools, or signs of dehydration, seek medical attention immediately.

Additional Information:

• Monitor your child’s fluid intake and offer plenty of fluids such as water, oral rehydration solutions, and clear broth
• Avoid giving your child sugary drinks, caffeinated beverages, or dairy products
• Maintain good hand hygiene to prevent the spread of infection
• Consult your child’s doctor before giving any over-the-counter medications for diarrhea
• Follow any specific instructions or recommendations provided by your child’s healthcare provider

Diarrhea Treatments and Pediatric Sick Care Visits in the Cumming Area

Vickery Pediatrics offers child care services in different locations. Contact (678) 990-2501 for assistance with diarrhea or other illnesses.

Diarrhea results in frequent, loose, watery bowel movements in children. Dehydration is a common concern.

It is important to monitor your child’s fluid intake when they have diarrhea to prevent dehydration. Encourage them to drink plenty of water, clear fluids, or oral rehydration solutions. Avoid giving them sugary drinks or drinks with caffeine.

When managing diarrhea in children, it is also important to stick to a bland diet, including foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (BRAT diet). This can help firm up their stool and ease their digestive system.

If your child’s diarrhea persists for more than a few days, if they have a high fever, or if they show signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, sunken eyes, or decreased urine output, seek medical attention promptly.

At Vickery Pediatrics, we provide expert care for children with diarrhea and other illnesses. Our dedicated team is here to support you and your child through their sickness. Contact us today at (678) 990-2501 for compassionate and reliable pediatric care.

What Is Diarrhea?

Viruses, bacteria, or dietary factors can trigger diarrhea in children. Dehydration is a major risk, necessitating extra fluid intake.

Mild Diarrhea (2 to 5 Watery Bowel Movements a Day)

Mild diarrhea typically resolves within a few days. Maintain a regular diet and offer increased breast milk or formula in smaller, frequent servings.

Moderate to Severe Diarrhea (6 or More Watery Bowel Movements a Day)

Moderate to severe diarrhea may require oral rehydration solutions like Pedialyte to prevent dehydration.

• Offer ORS without dilution and transition back to a normal diet after a day. Avoid substituting ORS with sports drinks.

Children Younger Than 1 Year of Age

• ORS (oral rehydration solution)
• Continue breastfeeding or formula feeds as usual.
• Avoid high-sugar beverages to prevent exacerbating symptoms.

Children Older Than 1 Year of Age

Supplement with water, milk, ice popsicles, flavored gelatin cubes, starchy foods, and yogurt while avoiding giving medications to halt diarrhea without medical advice.

Amount of Liquid to Give to Prevent Dehydration

Refer to the provided table to determine the appropriate fluid intake for your child based on their weight. Initiate with small sips and gradually increase intake until the target amount is reached.

Signs of Dehydration

Be vigilant for signs of dehydration during diarrhea treatment, such as reduced urination frequency or dark-colored urine.

Preventing the Spread of Infection

Prevent the spread of viruses by practicing proper hand hygiene and keeping contaminated items away from others.

WARNING: Do not administer medications to stop diarrhea without medical guidance, as they can be harmful if used incorrectly.

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When to Call the Doctor

Contact your child’s healthcare provider if you notice worsening symptoms, no improvement after 48 hours, refusal to breastfeed or eat, or specific concerning signs.

• For children under 3 months – Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
• For children over 3 months – Fever of 104°F (40°C) or higher, fever persisting over 102°F (38.9°C) for more than 2 days, fever not responding to treatment, or exhibiting unusual symptoms

Helping Hands Patient Education Materials

This content is designed by healthcare professionals at Nationwide Children’s Hospital to complement verbal instructions from a medical provider. The information is regularly reviewed and updated, but Nationwide Children’s Hospital is not responsible for any outcomes resulting from the use or misuse of these resources.