"toddler diarrhea" - real or more of a concern?

[fullofhope08]

Hi there,

I have a 22 month old son. He eats a pretty balanced diet with a very healthy appetite. When he was 18 months, he started having a lot of diarrhea. He was cutting his final teeth so I attributed it to this. The diarrhea continued once the teeth were out. For a while, his poop would sometimes smell like moth balls. I looked around online and found that acidophilus sometimes helps, so I gave him some for a week or two. His poop doesn't smell odd anymore. But he still has poops that are more runny than solid. I would say at least 75% of his poops are mushy and sometimes liquidy, with only 25% of them being formed. When I look online, they talk about todler diarrhea and there being no concern or known reason for this. He is a happy, healthy little boy who sleeps well, is very active durring the day and has a healthy appetite. My dh says - he's fine and healthy, no need to make an issue of this. I keep thinking this can't be normal... Should we be a little concerned and make an appointment with a naturopath? We live in a rural area with no naturopath so I either have to book an appointment for him with our naturopath that works 3 hours away, or do a phone consult with her. So I don't usually make contact unless I feel it's necessary.

I'd appreciate any assurance that there is no need for concern, or it's worth looking into.

Thanks!

Renee

[drjkf]

Such a good question, and I understand your concern.  In my experience, diarrhea among toddlers is common, but generally a sign that something is unbalanced within their system.  Since you noticed a change with probiotics, that is a hint that his flora balance may be off.  However, there may be other issues as well such as food sensitivities.  I would suggest calling your naturopath and asking her whether it is something to be concerned about, since she knows your son's health history. 

Warmly,

Dr. Jennifer