A baby has diarrhea if she has more bowel movements than usual, and if stools are less formed and more watery. Sometimes babies with diarrhea have other symptoms, such as fever, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach pains, cramps, and blood and/or mucus in the bowel movement. There are many different causes of diarrhea. The most common are viral infections.
Because babies who have diarrhea may become dehydrated, you should call your baby's doctor who may recommend an electrolyte solution to keep her hydrated.
Diarrhea can also be a sign that your baby is having difficulty digesting lactose, the carbohydrate found in most milk-based formulas. Some symptoms of lactose intolerance include gas, cramping, bloating or diarrhea.{C}{C}
Talk to your baby’s doctor. He may recommend Enfamil A+® Lactose Free, designed to nourish and support the normal development of babies who are sensitive to lactose. It provides similar nutrition of a milk-based formula without the lactose. It also contains DHA, an important building block of your baby’s rapidly developing brain.
Diarrhea can also be a sign that your baby is allergic to cow's milk protein. Talk to your baby’s doctor. If he thinks the diarrhea is due to cow’s milk protein allergy, he may recommend
Nutramigen® A+® with LGG®, a hypoallergenic formula has been clinically proven to reduce colic due to cow’s milk protein allergy quickly, often within 48 hours*1,2. And it now has LGG® culture, a friendly bacteria that’s been extensively studied for dietary allergy management — which is a real plus for your baby.
*Studied before the addition of LGG culture, DHA and ARA.
1. Lothe L, et al. Pediatrics. 1989; 83: 262-266.
2. Lothe L, et al. Pediatrics. 1982; 70:7-10.
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