best medicine for child loose motion - #13230
I am kinda freaking out here. My 6-year-old son has had loose motion for the past two days. At first it seemed like maybe just a little stomach bug, but now he's going multiple times a day and it's super watery. He says his tummy hurts and honestly, I'm worried. We tried giving him plenty of fluids, but he just looks more tired. The doctor said to keep an eye on him and only if it gets worse, but like... what is the best medicine for child loose motion? I really wanna help him feel better but I'm not sure what's safe or effective. Is it okay to use over-the-counter stuff for this, or should I stick to home remedies? I’ve heard mixed things about electrolytes too, like do they help or just make things worse? Oh and he’s had a little fever too, like 100 degrees. Should that change what the best medicine for child loose motion would be? It’s stressing me out, I hate seeing him like this, and I really wanna do something that will actually work. Any advice would be appreciated!
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Doctors’ responses
For a 6-year-old with loose motions, it’s crucial to focus on rehydration and monitoring symptoms rather than jumping to medications straight away. When children have diarrhea, they often lose a lot of fluids and electrolytes, which can lead to dehydration, so priority is to keep him well-hydrated. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS), which are widely available at pharmacies, are excellent for this purpose. They are specifically designed to replace lost fluids and salts and are more effective than plain water. Give small sips frequently, especially after each bowel movement. You can also try diluted fruit juices or clear broths if he prefers. As much as you may want to try over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications, they’re generally not recommended for young children unless advised by a pediatrician, as they can mask symptoms or in some cases, can be harmful.
Home remedies like the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) can help provide simple foods that are easy on the stomach, but make sure he is still getting sufficient hydration. Keep an eye on any signs of severe dehydration, such as dry mouth, sunken eyes, or decreased urination, and seek medical attention if these appear. The slight fever could be part of the body’s natural response to a viral gastroenteritis, and unless it climbs higher, it may not require fever medication. However, if the fever persists or if his overall condition worsens — less responsive, not urinating, crying without tears — it is wise to contact your healthcare provider for further guidance. Patience is key here; rest and reassuranse, combined with fluid intake, often lead to recovery within a few days. Focus on keeping him comfortable until things settle, and be sure to consult with your doctor if symptoms persist for repairer than a week.
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