Soft Stools in 1-Year-Olds: When to Seek Help

Diarrhea in a 1-year-old child?

Hello, Doctor.
I apologize for the interruption! My son is currently just over 1 year old and started experiencing soft stools/watery diarrhea last Wednesday (August 12) afternoon, which has continued for about 5 days now.
* The stool color is normal, somewhat smellier than usual, but without any sour odor.
* There have been "no" new solid foods introduced.
* We switched his formula 2 weeks prior to this incident (from Nestlé NAN [non-hydrolyzed] to Meiji).
Initially, after the formula change, everything was normal, and his stools were well-formed.
It was only after 2 weeks that he started having loose stools.
* The caregiver mentioned that this is not diarrhea, just soft stools.
* His appetite, energy levels, sleep, and body temperature are all normal.
I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
Since it has been 5 consecutive days, should I take him to see a doctor? The caregiver says it’s normal, but I am concerned about the lack of formed stools for this duration.
2.
Could this be due to an adjustment to the new formula? However, the loose stools started 2 weeks after the switch.
3.
Are there any other possibilities or suggestions for me as a mother to improve or address this situation? Thank you very much for your guidance! Wishing you peace and joy.

Zhuang Mama, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/18

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics

Hello! Based on your daughter's condition, it is likely toddler's diarrhea.
The characteristics include eating a lot, growing well, and having mild diarrhea.
This is often caused by a high intake of fructose-containing foods, such as fruit juices.
If you switch to a higher fat diet, the diarrhea usually improves.
It commonly occurs in children aged 1 to 5 years, and it generally resolves as they get older.
For children over one year old, the recommended amount of formula is about 400-500 cc per day, and it is suggested not to change the formula at this time.
Sincerely, Ren Sheng.

Reply Date: 2020/08/18

More Info

When it comes to understanding soft stools in a one-year-old child, it is essential to consider several factors, including dietary changes, hydration, and overall health. Based on your description, your son has been experiencing soft stools for about five days, which can understandably cause concern for any parent. Here’s a detailed response to your questions and some additional insights into the situation.

1. Duration of Symptoms: While five days of soft stools can be concerning, it is important to note that not all cases of soft stools indicate a serious problem. If your child is otherwise healthy—maintaining good appetite, energy levels, sleep patterns, and normal temperature—this may suggest that the soft stools are not due to a severe underlying issue. However, if the condition persists beyond a week or if you notice any additional symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or signs of dehydration (like decreased urination, dry mouth, or lethargy), it would be prudent to consult a pediatrician.

2. Dietary Changes: You mentioned that you recently switched from Nestlé NAN to Meiji formula. It is possible that your child is experiencing a reaction to the new formula, even if it took a couple of weeks for symptoms to manifest. Some infants can be sensitive to certain ingredients in formula, which can lead to gastrointestinal changes. If the new formula contains different types of carbohydrates or proteins, it might take some time for your child's digestive system to adjust. If you suspect this is the case, you might consider reverting to the previous formula or trying a different one that is known for being gentle on the stomach.

3. Other Considerations: Besides formula changes, consider other dietary factors. If your child has been consuming more fruits or juices, this could also contribute to softer stools. Foods high in fiber can sometimes lead to looser stools, especially if introduced suddenly. Monitor your child's diet closely and keep a food diary to identify any potential triggers.

4. Hydration: Ensure that your child is well-hydrated. Sometimes, soft stools can be a sign of mild dehydration, especially if the child is not drinking enough fluids. Encourage water intake, especially if the weather is warm or if your child is active.

5. When to Seek Help: If your child's soft stools continue beyond a week, or if you observe any concerning symptoms (such as blood in the stool, severe abdominal pain, or persistent irritability), it is essential to seek medical advice. A pediatrician can evaluate your child and may recommend tests to rule out any underlying conditions.

In summary, while five days of soft stools can be concerning, it is essential to consider the overall health and behavior of your child. Dietary changes, especially with formula, can lead to temporary gastrointestinal adjustments. Keep a close eye on your child's symptoms, and do not hesitate to consult a healthcare provider if you have any concerns. Your child's health and well-being are the top priority, and seeking professional advice is always a wise decision when in doubt.

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