How to Get Rid of Diarrhea in Infants
When your baby has diarrhea, you'll do anything to make him feel better. Kids Health reports that most infants will have diarrhea at one time or another. It is usually not serious and is something you can treat and get rid of at home.
When your baby has diarrhea, you'll do anything to make him feel better. Kids Health reports that most infants will have diarrhea at one time or another. It is usually not serious and is something you can treat and get rid of at home. However, if your baby is under 6 months old, has persistent diarrhea or there is blood it it, you should contact your baby's pediatrician for treatment. Be sure to wash your baby's hands often and urge those who come into contact with him to do the same, which can cut down on the chances of the baby catching a virus that will cause diarrhea.
Step 1
Keep your baby hydrated. Bouts of diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so be sure to offer her plenty of breast milk, formula or Pedialyte. This should slow and eventually stop her diarrhea by calming her upset tummy. Avoid giving her soda, juice or sports drinks because the high sugar content can actually make the diarrhea worse.
Step 2
Give your baby foods that will help firm up his feces. If your baby is able to eat solid foods, you can continue to offer these foods even when he has diarrhea. Good choices to offer include mashed bananas, dry toast, rice and applesauce. However, many doctors recommend continuing a normal diet to be sure your baby is getting adequate nutrition while he suffers from diarrhea.
Step 3
Feed your baby yogurt. The beneficial bacteria that yogurt contains have been shown to reduce the duration and the severity of diarrhea. Yogurt has a good consistency for babies who are just beginning to eat solid foods, and most babies like the taste of it.
Step 4
Avoid giving your baby anti-diarrheal medications. These products are not designed for babies and can make her sicker. Consult with her pediatrician, who may prescribe some form of medication to stop her diarrhea. If this is the case, make sure you follow dosing directions very carefully for the best results.
Step 5
Take your baby to the doctor or emergency room if a fever of 102 degrees Fahrenheit accompanies the diarrhea. This could indicate an infection or other disease. Other symptoms tied to diarrhea that require medical intervention include signs of dehydration for longer than six hours, or if he is vomiting or has severe abdominal pain. Symptoms of dehydration in an infant include having a dry diaper for more than six hours and crying without producing tears.