Diarrhea in infants can pose significant health risks. Besides causing discomfort, it can lead to serious complications, including life-threatening dehydration, if not addressed promptly.

Diarrhea in babies can be triggered by various factors such as viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections, as well as food allergies or digestive disorders. It is characterized by frequent, watery stools, which can cause rapid dehydration in infants.

Dangers of Diarrhea in Babies

The primary concern with diarrhea in babies is dehydration. When a baby becomes dehydrated, their body loses fluids and electrolytes more quickly than they can be replenished.

Symptoms of dehydration in babies include a dry mouth, sunken eyes, a sunken fontanelle, crying without tears, dry and inelastic skin, and fewer wet diapers due to reduced urination.

Additionally, diarrhea in babies can lead to malnutrition and secondary infections. These infections can spread, causing more severe digestive tract issues or sepsis, a life-threatening emergency condition.

How to Prevent Diarrhea in Babies

While diarrhea in infants and children can be prevented, the following are some effective measures:

Exclusive Breastfeeding

One of the best ways to prevent diarrhea in infants is through exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. Breast milk provides antibodies that help protect babies from infections, including those that cause diarrhea.

Moreover, breast milk is easier for an infant’s underdeveloped digestive system to process, reducing the risk of digestive irritation.

Maintaining Cleanliness

Another key prevention strategy is maintaining proper hygiene. Ensure your hands are always clean, washing them with soap and water before handling your baby, preparing food, or feeding, and after changing diapers.

It's also essential to clean baby bottles, pacifiers, utensils, and the baby’s surroundings to prevent contamination. Wash feeding items with soap and warm water after each use, sterilize them, and dry thoroughly.

Regularly clean baby toys with soap and warm water, especially those frequently placed in the baby’s mouth. Also, wash baby bedding and blankets regularly, ensuring the sleeping area is clean and dry.

Getting Vaccinated

Vaccinations are a crucial method for preventing severe diarrhea. For example, the rotavirus vaccine helps protect babies from rotavirus, which can cause severe diarrhea, vomiting, and fever.

The rotavirus vaccine is typically administered in 2-3 doses, beginning at around 2 months of age, with the final dose given by 8 months.

Pay Attention to Complementary Foods (MPASI)

Once babies begin eating solid foods after six months, it's important to ensure that meals are safe and hygienically prepared. Cook food thoroughly and avoid serving undercooked or raw items.

Raw or undercooked foods, especially meat, poultry, and eggs, can carry harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, or Listeria, which may cause severe infections.

Always watch for signs of diarrhea in infants, such as looser stools with mucus or blood and an increase in bowel movement frequency. If you notice these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately through the Ai Care app, available on the App Store or Play Store.

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