Diarrhea in babies leading to dehydration is usually caused by factors such as gastrointestinal infections or food allergies. In this situation, it is crucial to take appropriate measures promptly; here are some basic handling methods:
When a baby has diarrhea, they lose water rapidly, so the top priority is to ensure they are adequately rehydrated. This can be achieved by increasing the frequency of breastfeeding, formula feeding, or giving clear fluids to prevent dehydration from worsening; this strategy is suitable for mild dehydration cases.
Additionally, diarrhea can also result in the loss of electrolytes (especially sodium and potassium), so using oral rehydration solutions can help replenish these important components and maintain fluid balance in the body, which is particularly effective for babies with moderate dehydration.
Adjusting the diet is also a necessary step. During a baby’s episode of diarrhea, it is advisable to avoid offering hard-to-digest solid foods and instead provide liquid foods like rice porridge, noodle soup, or vegetable soup, which help the intestines rest and recover. This approach is applicable for mild to moderate dehydration.
Besides these conventional treatment methods, special circumstances may require other measures:
For diarrhea caused by bacterial infections, doctors may prescribe oral antibiotics.
In cases of severe dehydration or when oral rehydration solutions are ineffective, intravenous therapy can quickly replenish fluids and electrolytes under the supervision of medical professionals.
Ultimately, the specific treatment plan for the baby should take into account their age, severity of the condition, and strictly follow the doctor’s instructions. Seeking medical attention promptly and closely following professional guidance is the most direct and effective assurance for the baby’s health recovery.
