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Suggest Treatment For Diarrhea And Loss Of Appetite In Children
Question: I have a 5 year old boy. He has a bm about every other day. For the past two weeks its been irregular. It started out solid at first then diarrhea. Now for one week it has been more and more diarrhea. Just once per day every other day. He has a lack of appetite but seems to feel fine. No stomachache except when hes having bm. What do you suggest as far as dr or tests?
Brief Answer:
Likely to be due to constipation
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Dear Ms
Thanks for writing to us. Bowel movement on alternate days which is loose in consistency is not diarrhoea in true sense. It is more likely related to constipation causing spurious irregular passage of loose stools. Pain while bowel movements also suggest the possibility of underlying constipation.
I routinely come across many children who present with history of loose stools even though the main problem is that of constipation. Exact diagnosis will however depend on clinical examination. Kindly consult your child's Pediatrician for routine assessment.
I would suggest you the following
1. Ensure good intake of water: Many children are resistant to new advice or any diet alteration. You can follow 1 formula. 1 cup of water 1 hour before every meals and 1 cup of water 1 hour after every meals will ensure adequate intake of water
2. Ensure good intake of fiber in diet: Vegetable salad and Citrus fruits will be helpful
3. Avoid carbonated beverages
Do get back to me if you need any further assistance, will be glad to assist you.
Take Care
Best Regards
Dr Deepak Kaltari
Consultant Pediatric Surgeon
Likely to be due to constipation
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Dear Ms
Thanks for writing to us. Bowel movement on alternate days which is loose in consistency is not diarrhoea in true sense. It is more likely related to constipation causing spurious irregular passage of loose stools. Pain while bowel movements also suggest the possibility of underlying constipation.
I routinely come across many children who present with history of loose stools even though the main problem is that of constipation. Exact diagnosis will however depend on clinical examination. Kindly consult your child's Pediatrician for routine assessment.
I would suggest you the following
1. Ensure good intake of water: Many children are resistant to new advice or any diet alteration. You can follow 1 formula. 1 cup of water 1 hour before every meals and 1 cup of water 1 hour after every meals will ensure adequate intake of water
2. Ensure good intake of fiber in diet: Vegetable salad and Citrus fruits will be helpful
3. Avoid carbonated beverages
Do get back to me if you need any further assistance, will be glad to assist you.
Take Care
Best Regards
Dr Deepak Kaltari
Consultant Pediatric Surgeon
Note: For further queries related to your child health, Talk to a Pediatrician. Click here to Book a Consultation.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju
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