Diarrhea in Newborn Babies

For new parents, infant bowel movements can be alarming. It can be hard to tell the difference between a normal bowel movement and diarrhea, especially in breastfed babies. Many things can cause diarrhea in infants, and occasionally it can be hard to treat at home and may require medical care.

Signs That a Newborn has Diarrhea

Newborn babies have many bowel movements throughout the day. Parents must determine what a regular bowel movement looks like for the newborn. Newborn baby poop tends to be very soft, especially if the infant is breastfed. A sudden change in bowel movements can be a sign of diarrhea. This includes more frequent and watery bowel movements that come on very quickly. Often the color of bowel movements can change to green and they can contain mucous.

Causes of Diarrhea in Newborns

Many things can cause diarrhea in newborns. Most viral infections, such as influenza, have diarrhea as a symptom. Bacterial infections, such as E. coli also result in diarrhea. If a bacterial infection is suspected, parents should always take the baby to the doctor. Some diarrhea is caused by ear infections, which also need to be treated by the family doctor. If an infant is on antibiotics, diarrhea can be a side effect. Other causes include food allergies and intolerance. If poisoning is suspected in an infant, parents should bring the baby to the emergency room.

Risks of Newborn Diarrhea

Diarrhea in young babies can cause severe dehydration if not treated quickly. Dehydration can be fatal so parents should try to keep the baby hydrated and be sure to visit the doctor. Diarrhea can also cause slowed weight gain in infants. This should get better when the infant's diarrhea is over.

Treating Infant Diarrhea

Babies should be supplied with plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. For breastfed babies, mothers should nurse the baby as often as possible. Babies fed formula should be offered a bottle often. If the baby cannot keep these liquids down, the doctor may recommend that parents offer the baby a pediatric electrolyte drink. It is important that moms and dads provide sick infants with a lot of love and affection. During diaper changes, a diaper rash cream may be needed to prevent and heal redness.

When to Phone the Family Doctor

Parents should always phone the doctor if a newborn has diarrhea. An urgent visit with the family doctor may be needed if the baby has signs of dehydration such as no wet diapers for over six hours, crying without tears, and a sunken soft spot. If there is blood in the stool the baby should be taken to the doctor right away. Other signs of urgency are frequent vomiting and a high fever.