What To Do When Your Toddler Has Diarrhoea
Diarrhoea is characterised by very frequent, liquid stools. It is important to identify the cause before diarrhoea can be treated effectively. Parents often seek the advice of a dietitian or doctor if they are unsure.
Diarrhoea is a very loose foul smelling mess contained in and often oozing out of your toddlers nappy or underpants. And if that is not bad enough it can occur many times in a day. Toddler diarrhoea can have several causes, including:
- Lactose Intolerance following gastro;
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome in older children;
- Coeliac Disease;
- Allergy to foods;
- Intolerance to foods;
- Intestinal bacterial, viral or parasitic infections;
- An unbalanced microflora;
- Side effects of some medications.
It is important to identify the cause before diarrhoea can be treated effectively, seek medical advice if you are unsure of the cause and are concerned. Seek the help of a dietitian for a suitable balanced diet to help alleviate the symptoms of diarrhoea.
When your toddler has diarrhoea they are at risk of dehydration. Be sure to offer them water or breast milk (if you still have some) regularly during the day. Make sure your toddler is having at least six wet nappies a day or if they are toilet trained they are still going to the toilet regularly; and their lips are not dry.
A rehydration electrolyte solution may be required if diarrhoea has been severe or lasts several days. Ask your local pharmacist if this is appropriate. If your toddler’s diarrhoea does not resolve your doctor may order tests from poo samples. This is to identify any bacteria, parasites, or other causes.
Medications or diet restrictions should only be tried under medical supervision and advice.
Until the cause of your toddler’s diarrhoea is determined always treat the diarrhoea as contagious and be vigilant with hand washing and nappy disposal.
Related articles
How to Boost Toddler Immune System
A toddler’s immune system is still developing and becomes stronger over time. Boosting their little immune system is about helping their defence system be as strong as it can be. Read our tips.
3 mins to read
Toddler Health Concerns
As your baby grows into a toddler, there will be times when you are concerned about their health. Having a sick toddler is no fun for anyone.
4 mins to read
Infant Milk Allergy
Cow's milk allergy is a common food allergy in childhood, impacting approximately 1 to 2% of preschool children.
4 mins to read
Fever in Toddlers
When your toddler has a fever it is always a concern but don’t worry, it is not always a cause for panic.
3 mins to read
What To Do When Your Toddler is Constipated
Your toddler may poo once a day or once every few days. This article explains the possible causes of constipation and how to help alleviate it.
2 mins to read
Allergies in Children
Statistics show that Australia has one of the highest rates of allergies in the world, although it’s not entirely understood why.
8 mins to read
Social & Emotional Development in your Toddler
As your toddler matures, their social skills grow. They begin to recognise, exhibit and feel emotions.
3 mins to read
Short of Menu Ideas?
It’s difficult to find well-balanced meal ideas every day for your toddler.
1 min to read
How to Encourage Your Baby’s First Steps
It can be both thrilling and terrifying watching your baby’s first steps. Here are some ways you can help when they’re learning to walk.
2 mins to read
Toddler Language Development
Language milestones depend on your toddler’s genetic abilities and the environment in which they are exposed to.
3 mins to read
Your Toddler’s Nutrition From 12 to 24 Months
As you probably already know, toddlers are incredibly active and energetic! For their body size, toddlers need to make every bite count with nutritious meals and snacks.
2 mins to read
Spending Quality Time with Your Child
Need more quality family time ideas with your toddler? Here are 9 ways to spend more quality time with your child and turn simple chores into bonding opportunities.
5 mins to read
Eating Together
Eating is an essential human function. Every country and every civilisation has created its own eating habits and cuisine.
2 mins to read
Healthy Eating Habits Are Set Early in Life
By two years of age, dietary patterns of children start to become established.
1 min to read
A Guide to Family Meals with Toddlers
Mealtimes are a time to bring everyone together and for your toddler to learn how to eat at the table with you. Here are some tips to having a successful family meal with a toddler.
3 mins to read
Your Toddler’s Essential Shopping List?
As your little one grows and becomes more independent, you may find they use food preferences as a way of exerting their authority! Making sure they have a healthy selection of foods to choose
1 min to read
10 Tips For Managing Toddler Tantrums
Now that they’re walking and talking, your toddler is asserting their independence more and more every day, as well as developing strong willpower.
5 mins to read
Your Guide to Toddler Meals and Nutrition
As you probably already know, toddlers are incredibly active and energetic! For their body size, toddlers need to make every bite count with nutritious meals and snacks.
6 mins to read
Toddler activities: Entertaining playtime ideas for 12-18-month-olds
From crawling to standing and taking their first steps, your baby is now moving quickly into toddlerhood and becoming more active and mobile all the time.
3 mins to read
