While extremely unpleasant, toddler diarrhea is rarely a serious problem. Most often, the condition is the result of mild tummy troubles or an illness. Unless your toddler is exhibiting signs of dehydration or another serious problem, most cases of diarrhea can be remedied at home. By ensuring that your toddler remains properly hydrated and offering the proper foods, diarrhea is usually short-lived and shouldn't disrupt your normally active child.
The BRAT Diet
Since diarrhea can sometimes be the result of digestion problems in a toddler, particularly when trying new foods, switching to a bland diet can offer relief. The BRAT diet consists of bananas, rice, apples and toast. Each of the BRAT foods is bland and unlikely to upset your toddler's stomach while she recovers from her bout of diarrhea. The BRAT foods are also naturally binding and low in fiber to help solidify stools, while the potassium in bananas helps to replace that lost through dehydration and runny stool.
Liquids
Toddlers can lose water through runny diarrhea, which is why the condition can be a risk factor for dehydration. If your toddler looks lethargic, is urinating infrequently or has a dry mouth, contact your doctor for medical treatment. Offering sugar-free liquids throughout the day helps to prevent dehydration. Pediatric electrolyte-enhanced drinks are best, but avoid sugary sodas, drinks and adult sports drinks. Sugary drinks increase water in the intestines, which can exacerbate symptoms, according to BabyCenter.com.
Diaper Changes and Rashes
One of the greatest sources of discomfort your toddler will experience during a bout of diarrhea is the increased possibility of diaper rash. Diarrhea is loose, so it covers more surface area. It can also be acidic, resulting in red irritation where the stool is left in contact with the skin for long periods of time. Change your child's diaper frequently. Applying a zinc oxide-based diaper cream to create a protective barrier between the skin and the diaper will help relieve pain and prevent rashes.
Medical Help
While diarrhea in toddlers is fairly common and rarely serious, your child may exhibit signs of a serious problem. Lethargy, an inability to focus and limpness are all signs of dehydration, which will require medical attention. If your toddler's loose stool is accompanied by severe abdominal cramps, blood in the stool, sudden weight loss or a fever higher than 103 degrees Fahrenheit, contact a medical professional. Food allergies, bacteria and intestinal infections can all be serious causes of diarrhea that will require medical attention.
