Blood in stool in children
Blood in the stool is very rarely found in children. If bloody stools are detected, this usually occurs as part of a gastrointestinal infection. The trigger is usually bacteria, including EHEC, Salmonella and Shigella.
Parasitic diseases and food poisoning can also lead to bloody diarrhoea. Infections are usually caused by the consumption of spoiled or poorly prepared food. Cow’s milk allergy can also lead to bloody diarrhoea and vomiting. The allergy usually manifests itself when changing from breast milk to other milk products or from supplementary feeding. In adolescents, the first manifestation of a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease) can also lead to bloody diarrhoea.
What are the causes in the baby?
Blood in the stool should always be taken seriously in babies and examined more closely. In babies, the symptoms of certain diseases are less pronounced, such as indisposition, abdominal pain or fever. Blood in the stool may be the only symptom that points to an infectious disease of the intestine.
On the other hand, unnoticed constipation can also be indicated primarily by blood in the stool. The intestine of a newborn baby is very sensitive, which is why restrictions in digestion or intolerances of the intestine are not uncommon. Minimal anal fissures are also not uncommon and are often due to constipation.
In particular, the change of food from breast milk to other foods can be accompanied by initial difficulties. Food intolerances can also become apparent for the first time in this phase. The blood in the stool should be monitored over a few days. If the baby still has symptoms and complaints, a doctor should be consulted.
