Constipation and diarrhea in babies is very common and can be due to a number of different factors. These two conditions can become quite serious if they are not taken care of. There is some information you should know about these two problems, as well as treatment options.
Constipation and Babies
Many parents mistakenly think that infrequent bowel movements are constipation. Actually, constipation when the stool is difficult to pass and its consistency is hard. Newborn constipation is not all that common if the baby is breastfed. A baby that is breastfed will usually have more bowel movements each day than a baby that is bottle fed.
Symptoms of Constipated Babies
Babies with constipation may be irritable and fussy. This is often due to discomfort in the abdomen. They may strain and grunt as they try to pass the hard stool. If constipation is severe, the baby may vomit as well. Most babies will have two or three regular bowel movements as day, but a bottle fed baby may have less. If your baby does not seem to have enough bowel movements, make an appointment to speak with your pediatrician. If your baby has not had a bowel movement during the day, it could also mean they are not getting enough to eat.
Causes of a Constipated Baby
One of the most common causes of newborn constipation is the formula. Your doctor may recommend a formula that is a little easier to digest. While it may be the iron in the formula, most doctors will not recommend a low-iron formula. The iron is too important to the growth of the baby.
If the formula is mixed incorrectly, this too can cause constipation in infants. This is something you should consider when you mix the formula. Each time you open a new can of concentrate or powdered formula, make sure you read the directions. They may have changed from the previous can.
Treatment Options for a Constipated Baby
A change in formulas may be necessary. You might also try a small amount of molasses in the formula. This old remedy is often very effective. Try moving the baby’s legs in a bicycle motion to help stimulate the bowels. Water is not usually recommended for babies, but you might speak with your doctor if you feel your child is not getting enough fluids. Some mothers will rub a tiny amount of petroleum jelly around the outside of the rectum to see if that will stimulate a bowel movement as well.
Baby Diarrhea
There are many reasons why a baby may have diarrhea or very loose, runny stools. Sometimes there will be mucus in the stools, and diarrhea is an often accompanied by cramping. Coupled with the seemingly inevitable diaper rash, this can make your baby very uncomfortable and fussy.
Baby Diarrhea Concerns
Unfortunately, the fact that your baby is uncomfortable is only a small part of the problem when it comes to diarrhea. Babies, especially newborns, can dehydrate quickly with diarrhea. This can become an extremely serious condition within just a day or two at the most. It’s important that you recognize the signs, symptoms, and causes so you can begin treatment quickly.
Baby Diarrhea Causes
In babies, diarrhea can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection, a reaction to medications, or even a reaction to food the mother ate before breastfeeding. It’s important to realize the difference between a loose, watery stool from breastfeeding and a watery stool from diarrhea. If it’s diarrhea, the baby can dehydrate quickly as fluids are lost.
Baby Diarrhea Treatments
If your baby shows signs of dehydration, such as a sunken panatela, eyes that have lost their shine, or fewer wet diapers, it’s time to go to the pediatrician. More than likely, they will recommend an electrolyte solution, such as Pedialyte. This will help replenish the fluids, as well as essential nutrients. Your doctor will be able to advise if you need to use Pedialyte exclusively until the diarrhea is under control.
If the diarrhea has been ongoing or there are sign of significant dehydration, the doctor may order IV fluids to replace what has been lost. You may also be advised to feed your baby smaller amounts more frequently.
Make sure you treat your baby’s diaper rash as well, because diarrhea can quickly cause rashes that can blister and bleed. By treating the rash at the very first sign of it, you can prevent a lot of discomfort for your baby.
In Closing
Baby constipation and diarrhea can not only make your child very uncomfortable, they may also be a sign of a more serious condition. Make sure you speak with your pediatrician about any concerns you may have. They will be able to alleviate your fears or offer available treatment options.
