Question

My baby has been experiencing diarrhea frequently over the past few months, and it has happened several times. Each time, it lasts for several weeks before starting. I really don’t know what to do, as it lasts for five or six days every time.

Answer

Based on the description, a child’s diarrhea can be categorized into infectious and non-infectious types. Infectious diarrhea is usually caused by bacteria or viruses, such as the rotavirus that enters the intestines after infection through the respiratory tract, which may trigger diarrhea. Non-infectious diarrhea is often due to cold, hot food, or indigestion. Since a child’s digestive system is not fully developed and they secrete less digestive enzymes than adults, they are more prone to indigestion and subsequent diarrhea. It is recommended to observe the stool condition to see if there are any signs of infection. Pay attention to any symptoms of dehydration during the diarrhea and seek medical attention promptly.