my baby is almost 6months old having diarrhea since 4-5 days .....is it coz of teething??

Question

my baby is almost 6months old  having diarrhea since 4-5 days .....is it coz of teething??

Accepted Answer

if loose motion of the child is not improving the foremost thing you have to do is take a follow with your doctor.
it is advisable not to give outside milk if going on and you may have to switch to either lactose free milk or soya milk. 
please go for stool examination as well as stool culture which will differentiate lactose intolerance with infection. you can continue to give probiotics like such za super flora gg and zinc supplements.
(you have to hold multivitamin and iron during loose motions)z
many times loose motions improving 10 to 15 days also in case of viral diarrhoea.

Accepted Answer

Diarrhea in a six-month-old baby lasting four to five days can be concerning and may indicate an underlying issue that needs attention. Here are some possible causes:

### Potential Causes:
1. **Viral Infections:** Rotavirus and other viral infections are common causes of diarrhea in infants.
2. **Bacterial Infections:** Bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and others can cause diarrhea.
3. **Food Sensitivities:** Introducing new foods can sometimes lead to digestive issues.
4. **Teething:** While teething itself does not cause diarrhea, the extra saliva produced can sometimes lead to looser stools.
5. **Antibiotics:** If the baby has recently been on antibiotics, this could disrupt the gut flora and cause diarrhea.
6. **Formula Changes:** Switching formula or introducing new formula types can sometimes lead to digestive issues.

### Symptoms to Watch For:
- **Dehydration:** Signs include dry mouth, lack of tears, sunken eyes, and fewer wet diapers.
- **Fever:** A persistent or high fever can indicate an infection.
- **Blood or Mucus in Stool:** This can be a sign of a bacterial infection or other serious conditions.
- **Lethargy:** If the baby is unusually sleepy or irritable, this could be a sign of a more serious issue.

### What to Do:
1. **Hydration:** Ensure the baby stays hydrated. Offer breast milk or formula more frequently. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) can also be used to maintain electrolyte balance.
2. **Monitor:** Keep track of the number of wet diapers and monitor for any signs of dehydration.
3. **Consult a Pediatrician:** Given the duration of the diarrhea, it’s important to consult a pediatrician. They may recommend stool tests or other examinations to determine the cause.
4. **Maintain Hygiene:** Wash hands frequently and ensure feeding utensils and bottles are properly sanitized to prevent the spread of infections.

### Immediate Medical Attention:
Seek immediate medical attention if the baby shows signs of severe dehydration, has a high fever, blood in the stool, or is extremely lethargic.

While teething and minor infections can sometimes cause diarrhea, the duration and potential severity of symptoms in a six-month-old make it important to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any serious conditions and get appropriate treatment.