Teething and Loose Stools
This refers to the situation where some babies develop loose stools or diarrhoea during the teething process. This happens along with sickness, wind and a general lack of appetite. But sickness and diarrhoea are often signs of an illness or infection so take this into account. Babies are well known for having an upset tummy and/or diarrhoea so err on the side of caution. What happens is that your baby produces far more drool than usual and this excess saliva irritates the stomach. The result is runny stools and far more bowel motions than normal.
Basically, this saliva acts as a laxative so your baby will produce lots of runny poo. Another name for these is 'drool stools'. Loose stools are often accompanied by nappy rash during teething.
Do babies get diarrhoea for other reasons?
Loose stools are often caused by excess saliva but they also occur because babies enjoy putting everything and anything into their mouths. And these objects are covered in dust, dirt and bacteria which cause an infection. Your little one is not fussy at this stage and actively enjoys tasting the variety of objects he or she sees in front of them. This includes household objects, the cushions on your sofa, even the dog's chewy bone: if you have a dog. Little things such as dirt or germs don't worry an 8 month old baby who will seek out things to chomp and chew. If there has been any change in your baby's feeding habits then this can cause diarrhoea. One example of this is if your little one is drinking juice which can be rather acidic.
Dealing with baby diarrhoea
Change your little one's nappies as soon as they are soiled and on a regular basis (you will be used to doing this!). Use a nappy rash cream such as Sudocrem if your little one has developed a rash as a result. Then give your baby Ashton and Parsons Infant Powders which help to ease the pain and stomach upset caused by teething. If you are concerned then ask your GP for advice.