In infants, just as in adults, diarrhoea is characterised by loose, watery stools occurring more frequently than usual. However, it can lead to dehydration quickly in infants due to their limited electrolyte reserves. This can be dangerous for the baby and cause irritability, drowsiness, dryness, weight loss and more.
To prevent and treat diarrhoea in newborns, it is important to understand the causes and administer the right treatment quickly. Here is a list of some common causes of diarrhoea in infants.
Causes of diarrhoea in infants
The major reasons why diarrhoea may occur in an infant include infections, allergies, medication side effects and feeding issues. Let us examine them closely:
- Viral infections
Rotavirus and norovirus are amongst the primary causes of serious diarrhoea in children around the world. They often cause gastroenteritis, resulting in abdominal pain, diarrhoea, slight fever and vomiting.
- Bacterial infections
Often contracted from infected food or animals, salmonella bacteria may result in fever, causing diarrhoea and abdominal pains in infants. Certain strains of E. coli also cause diarrhoea, which may lead to bloody stool.
- Intolerances and allergies
Some babies can have difficulty breaking down lactose, which often can cause diarrhoea following consumption of dairy foods like milk. Milk allergies are uncommon but may lead to symptoms such as hives, diarrhoea and vomiting. Both lactose intolerance and milk allergies can be causes of green stool in infants.
- Side effects of medication
If you give your baby antibiotics or any other over-the-counter medication to cure their mild illness, it could also cause diarrhoea. This occurs because antibiotics disturb the sensitive gut microbiome in babies.
- Food issues
If an infant is fed more than is needed, it can cause digestive pain and diarrhoea. Early introduction of solid food or even rapidly introducing new foods can upset an infant's digestive tract.
Conclusion
Managing diarrhoea in infants can be challenging if you don’t understand its causes. However, in most cases, routine diarrhoea resolves on its own within a few days and is not a cause for concern. When medical attention is needed, having individual health insurance can offer valuable financial protection, covering the costs of consultations, tests, medications and hospital stays. Health insurance ensures that you can prioritise your infant’s health and well-being without the added stress of unexpected medical expenses.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.