AskDocDoc
/
/
/
does ors reduce loose motion
FREE!Ask Doctors — 24/7
Connect with Doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
500 doctors ONLINE
#1 Medical Platform
Ask question for free
00H : 31M : 42S
background image
Click Here
background image
Pediatric Medicine
Question #20919
45 days ago
103

does ors reduce loose motion - #20919

Keya

I am really worried about my son's health. He’s been having this persistent loose motion for the past two days, and I just feel helpless. We tried some OTC meds, but it doesn’t seem like they’re helping much. I read online that maybe ORS could help, but I’m not sure how effective it is. Does ORS reduce loose motion? We’ve given him some of those packets mixed with water, but it’s hard to tell if it’s actually doing anything since he still runs to the bathroom every hour or so. It’s just really stressful because he’s looking so weak and tired, and I'm scared what this could lead to. I have noticed a bit of dehydration signs—like he’s not drinking enough water, and even his lips are getting dry. Does ORS reduce loose motion or is it just for hydration? Should I be considering something else to really tackle the loose motion cause? Any advice on what worked for your kids in case of similar issues would be super appreciated, I really don't want this to drag on. Thanks a lot!

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors' responses

ORS, or oral rehydration solution, isn’t actually intended to stop loose motions; instead, it’s primarily used to address dehydration resulting from diarrhea. When your child is experiencing frequent loose bowel movements, they’re losing vital fluids and electrolytes, and ORS helps replenish them, reducing the risk of further dehydration which is critical for their recovery. Maintaining hydration is essential, but you should also focus on what’s causing the diarrhea in the first place. Common infectious causes include viral gastroenteritis, often self-limiting. While OTC medications for reducing the frequency of diarrhea might be available, it’s usually not recommended to use them in young children without pediatric guidance, especially if the underlying cause remains unclear. Pay attention to red flag symptoms, like bloody stools, high fever, severe abdominal pain, or lethargy, and seek prompt medical evaluation if these are present. Assuming the situation is less severe, continue the ORS, but also provide a diet that’s easy on the stomach. This might include foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (often called the BRAT diet). Encourage small, frequent sips of ORS and ensure your son continues to urinate regularly as a sign of good hydration. Additionally, monitor for weight loss or worsening symptoms. If the diarrhea persists beyond a few days without improvement, a healthcare provider might need to evaluate your son to rule out bacterial infections or other underlying issues that might need specific treatment.

16478 answered questions
88% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions