Question
My four-and-a-half-month-old baby has had diarrhea for more than ten days, and medication and injections have not helped. The stool has mucus and foam. How should I treat it? Additionally, there seems to be a small blister on the baby’s lower jaw. What could be the cause?
Answer
When a baby has diarrhea, it is important to consult a doctor promptly to determine the cause. For babies with mild diarrhea, attention should be given to dietary adjustments, providing easily digestible foods to reduce the burden on the gastrointestinal tract. At the same time, drinks such as congee, rice gruel, vegetable soup, and orange juice can be given to prevent dehydration. For babies with severe diarrhea, timely fluid replacement is necessary to correct electrolyte imbalances and provide appropriate anti-infection treatment. Moreover, as diarrhea frequency increases, the skin and mucous membranes around the baby’s anus are prone to become red or eroded. Parents should pay special attention to care during this time, gently wiping with soft tissues after each bowel movement, washing with water, drying, and applying ointments to prevent redness. When caring for the baby, it is recommended to feed them reasonably, advocate for breastfeeding, and introduce complementary foods in a timely manner. Avoid weaning during the summer months. Regularly disinfect feeding utensils and tableware. Pay attention to keeping the baby warm during weather changes, especially keeping the abdomen warm. The living environment should be well-ventilated.