Diarrhoea is characterised by an increased frequency and looseness of stools. While odd bowel movements may occur occasionally in babies as they start adjusting to digestion, excessive diarrhoea may result in severe water loss.
Concerned parents and guardians must know about the symptoms of diarrhoea in infants. Read on to learn more about these signs and understand when caution should be exercised.
Symptoms of diarrhoea in infants
Here are some common s :
- Increased frequency: The most common symptom appears when your baby undergoes more bowel movements than normal. For instance, if they typically have one or maybe two bowel movements each day and suddenly get five or six, it might be diarrhoea. You can also check the scale of diarrhoea severity based on the frequency of watery stool: 3-5 times a day is mild, 6 to 9 is moderate, and 10 and above is severe.
- Looser stools: In breastfed infants, stools are generally soft and may be mustard yellow with seed-like particles. However, if they are too liquid or watery, they can cause diarrhoea.
- Colour and odour: If you spot a stool colour like green, red, or black instead of the mustard yellow, it may be a cause for concern.
- Presence of blood or mucus: Blood or mucus in stool is a serious problem—check with your physician immediately. It could indicate a serious underlying disease.
- Fever: A fever along with diarrhoea could signify an illness and must be treated.
- Vomiting: Puking in infants is another symptom of diarrhoea, if accompanied by inconsistent stool. It usually occurs due to dehydration.
- Irritability or lethargy: A few changes in behaviour, like crying, fussiness or exhaustion, may suggest diarrhoea in infants.
- Low urination: A significant problem with infant diarrhea is dehydration, leading to fewer wet diapers than is usually the case.
- Dryness: Dry lips, dry mouth, dry skin and fewer tears during crying may also be signs of dehydration.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the better you know the symptoms of diarrhoea in infants, the quicker you can avail treatment. Infants with diarrhoea need proper medical care and close observation to avoid severe dehydration along with other complications.
For parents, individual health insurance may provide financial security and peace of mind, helping ensure their baby receives the desired care without financial strain. A comprehensive health insurance policy can cover the costs of consultations, treatments and hospital stays, providing essential support during medical emergencies.
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.