loose motion instant relief - #15146
I am sitting here, freaking out because my little one has had loose motions for the past two days! I can’t even count how many times we’ve run to the bathroom, and it seems like nothing is helping. I tried some over-the-counter stuff, but no instant relief yet! I even thought about offering some bananas, but I’m worried that might not be enough for those loose motions. Last night, he woke up crying, and I just don’t know what to do. Our pediatrician told us to keep him hydrated, but honestly, I'm feeling lost on how to get some instant relief for these loose motions. Should I be looking into probiotics or maybe some kind of home remedy? I’ve read about rice water or even boiled potatoes being good, but is that legit? I’m just anxious because he seems so uncomfortable and cranky. Any quick suggestions for instant relief that actually work to stop these loose motions? Or should I be concerned it’s something more serious? Every website I checked seems to have different advice, and I just need something that would work fast!
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Doctors’ responses
Loose motions in children are often distressing, but the good news is that most are self-limiting, usually linked to a viral infection and resolve within a few days. Immediate relief may not be instant but there are a few measures that could help ease your child’s symptoms. Since you mentioned bananas, they’re actually a great start! They can be helpful due to their binding effect on the digestive system and can help firm up stools. Along with bananas, you can try offering foods like applesauce, toast, and rice (commonly known as the BRAT diet) which are easy on the stomach and can aid in firming stools. Ensure your child stays well-hydrated, which is crucial to preventing dehydration due to frequent fluid loss. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are advisable as they contain the right balance of electrolytes and salts that could be lost. Regarding probiotics, some studies suggest that they can help restore the balance of gut flora and could potentially lessen the duration of diarrhea. However, consult with your pediatrician before trying any new supplements or remedies. Rice water and boiled potatoes also offer easy-to-digest sources of carbohydrates that can be soothing. Watch for signs of dehydration like reduced urination, lethargy, or dry mouth — in such cases, or if symptoms persist beyond a few days, worsen, or if there’s the presence of blood, high fever, or severe abdominal pain, you should seek immediate medical attention. While home remedies can be supportive, ensuring your child gets adequate hydration and rest is the most important part of recovery.
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