When is baby diarrhea cause for concern?

Dehydration : Watery bowel movements define diarrhea. Diarrhea is usually a result of a viral gastroenteritis which most often resolves on its own. If there is associated fever and/or vomiting dehydration is more likely. Dehydration needs to be treated. Less commonly diarrhea can be caused by an inability to digest certain food elements. This can result in malnutrition if untreated.

Dehydration: When there are signs of dehydration or blood in the stool, it is a sign of concern. The signs of dehydration include not peeing or having wet diapers for 7-8 hours. Oral rehydration with an electrolyte solution like Pedialyte is important. If the infant doesn’t tolerate it, they should be seen in an ER for IV hydration.