Bacterial and Viral Infections

• Most babies will have one or more episodes of diarrhea at some point. Often, diarrhea occurs as the result of a viral or bacterial infection. Viral infections include common viruses such as influenza and rotavirus. Bacterial infections include salmonella and staphylococcus. An ear infection, which can be the result of either a bacterial or viral infection, can lead to diarrhea. Usually, most viral and bacterial infections run their course and then the infant is well again. Occasionally, a bacterial infection may be serious and require additional medical treatment.
  
  

Food Allergies and Intolerances

• Diarrhea may also be caused by something the infant has drank or eaten. Often too much juice leads to diarrhea. Also, a food allergy or food intolerance may cause diarrhea. Common food allergies are milk protein, eggs, wheat, soy and fish. In addition, a food intolerance such as lactose intolerance may cause diarrhea.
  
  

Serious Causes

• Other more serious causes of diarrhea include parasites, which requires specific medications for effective treatment and accidental poisoning. If the infant ingests something dangerous such as medications or chemicals, his caregiver should consult with poison control immediately.
  
  

Treatment

• Diarrhea is usually not dangerous, but infants should be offered additional fluids to avoid dehydration. A doctor should be consulted if the baby appears to be dehydrated, if the baby is also vomiting continually, or if the baby had a fever higher than 101.