How to manage loose motion and fever in my 9-month-old baby?

Question

Hi doctor,

My 9-month-old son started having loose motions this afternoon. He also has redness around his diaper area and a mild fever.

Could you please guide me on what I should do and whether this requires any specific treatment?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query.

As a child specialist, I understand your concern. Loose motions for a few hours along with a mild fever in a 9-month-old baby are most commonly caused by viral gastroenteritis (a viral stomach infection). This is usually a temporary infection of the stomach and intestines that can cause diarrhea, fever, and sometimes vomiting.

The most important thing right now is to prevent dehydration, which occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in. Continue breastfeeding frequently and offer small amounts of ORS (oral rehydration solution) after each loose stool to replace lost fluids and electrolytes (salts and minerals). Offering feeds more often than usual can also help keep your baby well hydrated.

Please watch closely for signs of dehydration, such as a dry mouth or tongue, no tears while crying, sunken eyes, reduced urine output (fewer wet diapers than usual), excessive sleepiness, or decreased activity. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

The redness around the diaper area is likely a diaper rash, which commonly occurs when the skin is irritated by frequent loose stools. Gently clean the area with water, pat it dry without rubbing, and apply a thick layer of zinc oxide diaper rash cream with each diaper change. Frequent diaper changes and some diaper-free time during the day may also help the skin heal.

If your baby's temperature is above 100.4°F (38°C), Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) may be given. Please let me know your baby's current weight so I can advise the appropriate dose.

Please have your child examined by a doctor immediately if there is blood or mucus in the stool, repeated vomiting, refusal to breastfeed or drink fluids, a high or persistent fever, signs of dehydration, or if the diarrhea becomes very frequent or severe.

To guide you further, please let me know:

How many loose stools has he passed since this afternoon?
Is he vomiting?
What is his current temperature?
What is his current weight?

These details will help me advise you more accurately.

I hope this helps.

Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.