What Could Cause A Toddler To Have Loose Stools With Gas And Reduced Appetite For Four Days?

Question : Brief Answer:
Maintain hydration, decrease intake of milk, Probiotics and zinc will help

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

Thanks for choosing "Ask A Doctor" service. I have seen the images and do understand your concern.

I won't get overly worried as stool is not too watery, not blood stained and there is no mucus. Excessive gas can be due to lactose (present in milk) fermentation.

I would suggest you to decrease the intake of milk. If he is predominantly milk fed and not taking other foods properly, you may add lactase drops (10 drops three times a day,15 minutes before giving milk). Lactase drops help in proper digestion of lactose.

Continue giving ragi. You can also give rice, puffed rice and potato. Give probiotics like enterogermina 1 mini bottle once a day for 5 days and zinc syrup 10 mg (2.5 ml) once a day for 14 days. Probiotics and zinc help in early recovery. Give plenty of fluids(ORS) to maintain proper hydration.

For mild cold, I suggest you to put nasal saline drops 2 drops in each nostril 4-5 times a day. Watch for signs of dehydration like decreased urinary frequency or poor activity. If you notice too frequent, too watery stool, blood or mucus in stool, frequent vomiting, decreased urinary frequency or poor general activity; please consult your pediatrician.

I hope this helps. Please let me know if you have any more questions.

Regards

Baby is 15 months old, he is passing loose motion by passing gas simultaneously. He is not on any new diet and refusing food for the past 4 days. He is drinking milk thrice and having ragi once in a day. Suspected to have mild cold as he has nose block in the nights. Please suggest medicines if necessary.