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loose motion medication
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Pediatric Medicine
Question #16182
45 days ago
106

loose motion medication - #16182

Arya

I am worried about my daughter, she’s been having really bad loose motions for the past few days. It started last Friday when she had this strange upset stomach, and then suddenly it just exploded into loose motions – like several times a day! I thought maybe it was something she ate, but it wasn't like she had anything special. We tried giving her some clear fluids, and it helps a little, but then last night she was up again, feeling awful. I've looked around and there’s tons of suggestions for loose motion medication, but there's just so much info out there, I don't know what to trust! My sister gave me some over-the-counter stuff she used for her kids, but I’m not even sure if it’s ok for her age. How do you figure out the right loose motion medication? Should I be going to the doctor, or can this just run its course? Is there a specific loose motion medication that works best? I just want her to feel better, it’s so hard seeing her like this! Any advice on what I can safely do at home? And how do I know when it’s time to actually see a doc??!!!

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Doctors’ responses

When dealing with loose motions, especially in children, it’s crucial to prioritize hydration. The most important initial step is ensuring your daughter stays hydrated, as diarrhea can lead to dehydration quickly. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are the gold standard for addressing dehydration and should be given instead of just clear fluids, as they contain the right balance of salts and sugars. You can find ORS packets in most pharmacies, and you mix them with water according to the instructions.

As for medication, many over-the-counter options are usually not recommended for children, as some can have significant side effects or mask underlying issues. Always check age suitability and consult a healthcare professional before giving any medication. It’s also essential to include bland foods in her diet, such as bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (often referred to as the BRAT diet), which can help firm up her stool.

Typically, if diarrhea lasts more than a few days, if there’s a high fever, or if there are signs of dehydration (like dry mouth, sunken eyes, extreme fatigue, or decreased urination), it’s time to see a doctor. Rapid or severe dehydration can become an emergency, so be vigilant about these signs. A healthcare provider will be able to do a proper assessment and perhaps run some tests to identify if there’s a specific infection or underlying cause that needs to be treated.

In summary, focus on hydration with ORS, maintain a suitable diet, and be observant of severe symptoms that warrant a visit to a medical professional. If at any point you’re uncertain about her condition or she seems to be getting worse, seeking medical advice is always the safest course of action.

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