Diarrhea

If a 2-month-old baby has diarrhea and hasn’t slept in over 4 hours, it’s definitely something to pay close attention to. Here’s what might be going on and what you can do:

Possible Causes

• Viral infection is the most common cause of diarrhea in infants, such as rotavirus.

• Feeding intolerance or cow’s milk allergy can also trigger loose stools in young babies.

• Overstimulation or discomfort from the diarrhea itself might be making it hard for the baby to settle and sleep.

Why It Matters

• Dehydration is the biggest concern. Babies can lose fluids quickly, especially if they’re not feeding well or sleeping. Signs include:

  • Fewer wet diapers (less than 4–6 in 24 hours)

  • Dry mouth or lips

  • No tears when crying

  • Sunken soft spot on the head

  • Lethargy or unusual fussiness

What You Can Do

• Keep offering breast milk or formula frequently — even small amounts help.

• Monitor diapers closely for wetness and stool frequency.

• Try soothing techniques like skin-to-skin contact, gentle rocking, or a warm bath to help them rest.

• Call your pediatrician right away if:

  • Diarrhea is severe (more than 6–10 watery stools a day)

  • Baby shows signs of dehydration

  • There’s blood or mucus in the stool

  • Baby is unusually irritable or hard to wake

Notes for Pediatrician Call – 2-Month-Old Baby

Main concerns:

• Diarrhea - shows loose, watery stool with greenish tint

• Baby has not slept in over 4 hours

• Signs of discomfort or fussiness

Feeding:

• [ ] Last fed at:

• [ ] How much did baby take?

• [ ] Any changes in appetite?

Diaper Changes:

• [ ] How many wet diapers in the past 6–12 hours?

• [ ] How many like the one in the photo?

• [ ] Any mucus or blood?

Other symptoms:

• [ ] Fever? If so, what temperature?

• [ ] Vomiting or spit-up?

• [ ] Is baby unusually sleepy, fussy, or hard to console?

Recent info:

• [ ] Any new exposures (family members sick, travel, etc.)?

• [ ] Any recent changes (new formula, vaccines, medications)?