Suggest Treatment For Severe Diarrhea In An Infant
My 8 months daughter has loose motion 3 to 4 times last 3 days today consulted doctor and gave following medicines
Ofloxacin drops
Zinc acetatete
The stool is watery and she looks normal and we started giving her solids from sixth months(Ragi,wheat,banana,apple puree)
Sometime mucus is present in the stool
she is vomiting while taking zinc acetate syrup
We have completed the course of rota virus vaccination for her
and she is drinking breastmilk and also playing well and passing urin normally
but looks a little bit tired
Her height and weight are normal as per age
she is passing gas sometimes
Could you please suggest if we can continue with current medication
and is it normal to have like this?
Hold zinc if vomiting present
Detailed Answer:
Hi
I understand your concerns but don't worry. Infants are prone to such variations in frequency, consistency and colour of poops. Sometimes self limiting viral gastroenteritis can present in similar way. But that too requires just symptomatic treatment and it improves within a few days.
So, I would recommend you to hold ofloxacin (antibiotics are not useful). Also, since vomiting is a well known side effect of zinc supplement which your child is facing so hold it for the time being.
She requires the following measures for early recovery:
- Continue with regular complementary feeds along with breastfeeding. Ensure oral rehydration therapy such as Soups, lemonade, buttermilk, ORS to maintain hydration especially if the poops are copious and loose. Banana and cardamom water is useful home remedy.
- Start a probiotic such as enterogermina twice daily for next 5 days. This will help in replenishing the healthy gut flora.
- Start zinc supplement once daily for 14 days when the vomiting and nausea completely improve. Zinc helps in regeneration of gut mucosa and early recovery. Also it provides immunity against similar episodes in next few months.
Hopefully it will be of help. I would be happy to help you in any further questions.
Take care
Thank You very much for quick response
I bought Enterogermina oral suspension (2 Billion/5ml) imported by sanofi
Can I give 5ml at a time or should I give it as multiple doses?
Thanks
XXXX
Give it twice daily
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Give it twice daily for next 3-5 days depending upon the response.
Take care