Toddlers with runny, discolored or mucus-like stools are experiencing diarrhea. Diarrhea can be caused by intestinal infections, food allergies, food insensitivities, or simply a normal phase of loose stools according to the pediatric health website, Ask Dr. Sears. There are several ways to treat diarrhea in toddlers. However, Healthy Children recommends consulting a physician if a toddler has blood in the stool or starts acting differently. It is also wise to consult the child's physician if the toddler appears dehydrated, is lethargic, has severe abdominal pain or is losing weight.
Hydration
It is critical to keep your child hydrated when he has diarrhea. If he becomes dehydrated, he may have to be hospitalized until his fluid levels return to normal. Babycenter advises giving your sick child extra water as long as he can keep it down. If your child is also throwing up or is having watery bowels every two hours, consult his pediatrician, who may suggest a pediatric electrolyte solution. These drinks are sold in your grocery store or pharmacy in a wide variety of flavors to appeal to your child. Avoid giving your toddler fruit juices and sodas when he has diarrhea. The sugar in these drinks can make his bowel movements worse.
Modified Diet
Ask Dr. Sears suggests feeding your toddler "half as much, twice as often" when she has diarrhea. Encourage your child to munch on smaller amounts of food more frequently. Ice chips are a good snack for her to suck on throughout the day. If your child has mild diarrhea two to four times in a day, the site suggests feeding her the BRAT diet--Bananas, Rice, Applesauce and Toast. Yogurt is another food that helps treat diarrhea in toddlers. If your child is having diarrhea more than four times a day use the BRAT diet in smaller amounts.
Extra Sensitive Care
If you are keeping your toddler hydrated and feeding him with mild foods, the next best thing you can do is keep him comfortable until the diarrhea ends. Check his diaper frequently. Be extra sensitive when changing his diaper or underwear. Keep his rear-end dry and use diaper cream when changing him. Loose stools can cause your toddler's bottom to become red, irritated and painful.
Be sure to wash his hands and your hands with warm water and soap for at least fifteen seconds every time every time you change him or help him in the bathroom. Diarrhea can be very contagious.
