Q: My 11-month-old has had watery stools smelling like fermented yogurt for 4 days. Should we visit a doctor?

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Question:

My 11-month-old baby has been having watery stools with a fermented yogurt smell. This happens 2 to 3 times a day and has been going on for 4 days now. I am wondering about the guidelines for taking my baby to the hospital. Do we only go if the baby has more than 5 bowel movements a day, or is the number of consecutive days also a reason to visit? Also, I have some pediatric probiotics at home; is it okay to give them to my baby?

Answer:

You must be quite worried about your 11-month-old baby's watery stools and the fermented smell. Since it has been going on for 4 days, it is completely understandable that you are concerned.

【Criteria for a Hospital Visit】

Rather than just the frequency of the bowel movements, the following symptoms are much more important to watch for:

• Signs of dehydration: Crying without tears, dry lips, or decreased urine output

• Bloody stools or stools with mucus

• A fever of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher

• Being more lethargic or fussy than usual

• Weight loss

Currently, having 2 to 3 bowel movements a day is within a normal range, but the combination of it lasting for 4 days and having a fermented smell warrants a medical check.

【What You Should Do Immediately】

1. Provide fluids frequently (breast milk/formula + water).

2. Prevent diaper rash (change diapers frequently).

3. Check the number of times the baby urinates today.

【Probiotics】

You can continue to give the probiotics. In fact, it can help restore the balance of the gut flora.

→ If there is no improvement by tomorrow, or if any of the symptoms mentioned above appear, please visit a pediatrician.

→ The fermented smell can be a sign of an imbalance in gut bacteria, so it is a good idea to get it evaluated by a doctor.

Keep a close eye on your baby's condition, and do not hesitate to seek medical care if you are worried!

For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.

https://fevercoach.us