Question

How to Distinguish If an Infant Has Diarrhea

Answer

Breastfed infants typically have loose and frequent bowel movements, usually without mucus or pus. If the baby is in good spirits, has a good appetite, and shows no other discomfort, and if the baby’s weight gain is within the normal range, this is referred to as ‘functional diarrhea.’ Generally, there’s no need to change the feeding method or reduce the amount or frequency of milk. This condition usually resolves naturally after introducing solid foods, leading to a decrease in bowel movements. Since this type of diarrhea has no significant impact on the baby’s growth and development, no special treatment is required. It’s advisable to consult a hospital for further examination to determine if there are any other abnormalities.