#asktheexpert is green poop normal with a stale egg smell ?

Question

Accepted Answer

if the consistency of the stool is normal that is semi solid to solid there is no need to worry about the frequency of the stool.
the frequency can vary for 4 to 5 times per day and sometimes the child will not pass stool for few days also.
also do no worry about colour and smell of the stool when stool consistxency is semisolid to solid.
you have to meet the dr only if it is totally watery stool or it is hard stool or the child is having pain while passing the stool.

Accepted Answer

Green poop with a stale egg smell in a baby can sometimes be a sign of digestive issues or an underlying condition. Here’s what to consider:

### **Possible Causes:**

1. **Dietary Changes:**
   - **New Foods:** Introducing new foods or formulas can sometimes cause changes in stool color and odor.
   - **Iron Supplements:** If the baby is taking iron supplements, it can also affect stool color.

2. **Infection or Illness:**
   - **Gastrointestinal Infection:** Green stool and foul odor might indicate a gastrointestinal infection. Look out for other symptoms like vomiting, fever, or unusual fussiness.
   
3. **Digestion Issues:**
   - **Incomplete Digestion:** Sometimes, green poop can result from undigested bile reaching the intestines.

4. **Food Intolerance:**
   - **Milk or Formula:** Intolerance to milk or formula can cause unusual stool colors and smells.

### **What to Do:**

1. **Monitor Symptoms:**
   - **Other Symptoms:** Keep track of any additional symptoms like fever, vomiting, or changes in feeding and behavior.

2. **Check Diet:**
   - **Recent Changes:** Review recent dietary changes or new foods and discuss them with a pediatrician.

3. **Hydration:**
   - **Ensure Hydration:** Make sure your baby is well-hydrated.

4. **Consult a Pediatrician:**
   - **Professional Advice:** If the symptoms persist or if you notice other concerning signs, consult a pediatrician to rule out any serious issues and get appropriate advice.

### **When to Seek Medical Help:**
- **Persistent Symptoms:** If the green, foul-smelling stool persists for several days.
- **Additional Symptoms:** If accompanied by severe symptoms like high fever, dehydration, or significant changes in behavior.

### **Summary:**
Green poop with a stale egg smell can be normal in some cases, especially with dietary changes. However, if it persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, consult a pediatrician to ensure there’s no underlying issue.