Should formula be stopped if a 7-month-old baby has diarrhea?

Question

Hi doctor,

My daughter is seven months old and has had quite an issue with formula milk. Due to suspected CMA, she was slowly transitioned from cow's milk-based formula to partially hydrolyzed to extensively hydrolyzed or hypoallergenic formula, all of which were pediatrician-approved.

She was recently moved back off the hypoallergenic formula due to her consuming an excessive amount and always seeming hungry or having yellowish, green, or pale diarrhea that was causing her a diaper rash.

She handled the partially hydrolyzed formula that we switched back to very well, but after two weeks, she has developed diarrhea again, and her most recent stool was mucousy and sparse. I am hesitant to call my pediatrician again on this, as we have been repeatedly back and forth on finding the right formula fit.

The other factor is that she may have a form of rhinovirus, as she was sick, then I got ill, and I was confirmed with rhinovirus. She is otherwise happy and playful, though she is very stuffy, has a runny nose, and has a semi-productive cough (it sounds phlegmy, but she has not coughed up mucous to what I can see).

I am really worried about her. Do I stay the course on the formula and see if it rights itself after her illness goes away?

Please guide.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concerns.

I understand that choosing the right formula for your baby can be difficult and sometimes confusing.

It is important to know that a young infant’s gut finds it challenging to digest cow’s milk and standard formulas, as their digestive system may not yet produce the enzymes needed to break down certain proteins. This can lead to symptoms like diarrhea, bloating, and irregular bowel movements.

Since you have recently switched to a hypoallergenic formula, it may take some time for your baby’s digestive system to adapt. This adjustment period is normal, and you may notice changes in your baby’s stool color and consistency, such as green, yellow, or brown stools, which are usually not a cause for concern, especially as new foods are introduced.

However, regarding your baby’s viral symptoms, being cautious is important. Infants under one year of age are more vulnerable to developing complications like pneumonia. I recommend you have your baby’s chest examined to check for any signs of congestion.

In the meantime, if your doctor advises, you may consider nebulizing your baby to help with breathing. You can also start an anti-allergic medication such as Cetirizine drops. The dosage would be 0.5 ml once daily (1 mg/ml) for three days.

Please monitor your baby closely, and feel free to follow up if you notice any worsening of symptoms or have further concerns.

I hope this answers your query. Feel free to reach out anytime.

Thank you.