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ors good for loose motion
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Pediatric Medicine
Question #12622
54 days ago
74

ors good for loose motion - #12622

Rashi

I am not really sure how to handle this situation I'm dealing with right now. My 9 year old son has had some pretty bad loose motion for the past couple of days. I have tried everything, but nothing seems to work. He hasn't eaten much and is just drinking water, plus he looks a bit lethargic. A friend suggested that ORS is good for loose motion, but I'm kinda confused about that. I mean, I thought we should avoid giving him sugary drinks, right? I read somewhere that ORS is good for loose motion because it helps with dehydration, but is it safe for kids? He's refusing to eat, and just wants to lie down all day, which is worrying me. I feel like I’m battling with this whole thing. Should I continue giving him ORS? Does it really help with loose motion or are there better options? I’ve heard mixed things. Some say rest and ORS is the key to recovery, yet others have suggested stricter diets? What do you all think? Is ORS really good for loose motion, or should I be looking for something else?

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Doctors’ responses

ORS, which stands for oral rehydration solution, is indeed a good choice for managing loose motions, especially in children. It’s a well-established remedy for preventing dehydration which is a real risk when experiencing diarrhea. ORS helps replenish electrolytes lost due to loose motions and maintains hydration. It’s not primarily about sugar; it actually contains a balance of salts and glucose that facilitates water absorption in the intestines. In children, maintaining hydration is crucial since they can get dehydrated more quickly than adults. Signs of dehydration can include lethargy, dry mouth, and a decrease in urination—all of which you’re observing in your son, so using ORS is important.

When it comes to meals, it’s often a challenge to coax kids into eating when they’re not feeling well, but encouraging small, bland meals can be helpful. Foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (commonly referred to as the BRAT diet) can be gentler on their stomach while providing some nutrition. If he refuses to eat much, don’t force it; focus on hydration with ORS and plain water. If symptoms persist beyond a couple of days, or if you notice signs of significant dehydration or other severe symptoms like persistent vomiting, high fever, or sleepiness, consult a pediatrician immediately as these can be red flags for more serious conditions.

Stricter diets are not typically necessary beyond ensuring that fatty foods, dairy, and excessive sugars are avoided during bouts of diarrhea. Always prioritize hydration and seek professional care without delay if the condition won’t improve.

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