Diarrhea is the passage of 3 or more watery stools in a day and in babies, this is one of the fastest ways they lose body water(dehydration).
As a parent, it’s important you know your baby’s stool pattern and if you ever notice diarrhea in your baby, you must act fast. Below are are some important things you should do;
- If baby is still on breastmilk or formula, it’s important you continue to feed your baby. Aside the nutrients, this will help replenish body water
- If baby is already taking solids, give as much feeds baby can take per time
- Give ORS; you can get this from the pharmaceutical store
- Give zinc tablets; 10mg daily for babies less than 6months and 20mg of zinc tablets for babies above 6months
- Find your way to the nearest hospital to get baby evaluated and the cause of the diarrhea treated
Note: The tips listed above are beneficial when baby can tolerate food, water and drugs orally but if baby can’t tolerate anything orally or if there are other symptoms such as fever (hotness of the body), vomiting, sunken eyes or blood in stool, take baby to the hospital immediately
