Q: My 100-day-old baby's feeding and wet diapers decreased significantly after the flu. Should I be worried?
- Myeongchan Kim
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD
Content edited by Myeongchan Kim, MD
This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Question:
Hello! My 100-day-old baby caught the flu from their older sibling. They were hospitalized and discharged last week. Normally, my baby's total daily feeding volume was 700-800 ml, but now they are barely taking 400-500 ml even with a lot of coaxing. I'm only seeing about two fully wet diapers a day. Is this okay, or should I take my baby to the hospital? I know my baby is still struggling with some remaining nasal congestion and phlegm, but the decreased urination really worries me. Their weight has also dropped from 7 kg to 6.9 kg since catching the flu. I have nowhere else to ask, so I am reaching out for advice.
Answer:
It is completely understandable that you are worried. Seeing a 100-day-old baby's feeding volume and urine output drop significantly after a bout of the flu is definitely a cause for concern.
⚠️ Medical evaluation is necessary for your current situation.
[Current Concerning Signs]
• Feeding volume decreased by about 50% (from 800 ml down to 400-500 ml).
• Only 2 fully wet diapers a day (a healthy average is 6-8 wet diapers).
• Recent weight loss (from 7 kg to 6.9 kg).
• Your baby is only 100 days old and in a vulnerable recovery phase.
→ Please visit a pediatrician today. These symptoms point to early signs of dehydration, and a 100-day-old infant's condition can deteriorate very rapidly.
[What to do until you see the doctor]
Attempt frequent, very small feedings (10-20 ml every 30 minutes) rather than large amounts at once.
Keep a detailed record of the times your baby urinates and how wet the diapers are.
Check inside your baby's mouth to see if their lips and tongue remain moist.
Frequently use nasal saline drops or spray to help clear the nasal congestion, making it easier for them to feed.
[Go to the Emergency Room immediately if you notice:]
• No urine output for more than 8 hours.
• No tears being produced when the baby cries.
• The baby is lethargic, unusually sleepy, or slow to respond.
• The baby's lips and tongue are completely dry.
Even during the recovery phase of the flu, maintaining proper hydration is absolutely crucial. Please have your baby evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible to ensure they are safe and on the right track to recovery.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
