Toddler Diarrhea

This page deals with the toddler diarrhea where a toddler always has diarrhea. For a sudden increase in your toddler's stool frequency or sudden loose stools (poop, poo), see gastroenteritis.

What is toddler diarrhea?

It refers to a benign condition in toddlers where they have loose frequent stools (poop, poo) most of the time. Toddler's diarrhea is not uncommon but luckily is not serious.

What does the diarrhea look like?

It varies in consistency. Sometimes it is very loose and sometimes it is quite formed. Often you will see undigested vegetables in the stool (poop, poo).

What is the cause of the diarrhea?

Often toddlers are drinking a lot and this combined with an immature gut system probably accounts for the diarrhea.

How do I know it's not more serious?

Toddler diarrhea does not cause weight loss or poor growth, so if your child is growing normally, you shouldn't be concerned. Despite the fact that you are very aware of the diarrhea!!, your toddler will seem completely well.

How can I treat the diarrhea?

You don't need to do anything other than reduce the amount of juice your toddler is drinking.

The only treatment I would advise trying if you want to treat the diarrhea is a probiotic, like Lactobacillus acidophilus.

When should I see my doctor?

See your doctor if:

• your child is losing weight
• your child is complaining of tummy pains, particularly after food
• your child is unwell in other ways, for example is very tired and listless
• the diarrhea is interfering with your child's social interactions

How long does the diarrhea last?

Toddlers "grow out" of the diarrhea by about 5 years of age in most cases.

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