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Answer:The primary concern for an infant with diarrhea is dehydration. Diarrhea will cause your baby to lose fluids and electrolytes. It therefore is important to rehydrate your baby with an oral rehydration product to prevent dehydration.

Be alert to these signs of dehydration:

Oral rehydration solutions and electrolyte products are available over the counter. Some contain a special mix of electrolytes and fluids; some are in the form of freezer pops; some are in the form of strips that require drinking water to supply the fluid. You may wish to keep these products on hand so they are ready to use as the need arises.

As with any medication you give your child, read the instructions fully, and follow the directions to the letter when administering the remedy (how much, how often, etc.). Until the pediatrician can examine your baby, call the doctor’s office and have him or her give you further recommendations on what liquids/food you can give your baby in the meantime.

Learn more about babies and diarrhea in the Walgreens.com Health Library.

View electrolyte products available from Walgreens.com.

View the Walgreens.com Ask a Pharmacist Archives for a list of all commonly asked questions.

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