Question

A 40-day-old baby has black stool, no odor, defecates about 7 to 8 times a day, and has normal appetite, spirit, and body temperature. Moreover, there is a slight yellowing around the baby’s eyes. The parents are asking whether a stool test is necessary.

Answer

Based on the description, the baby’s stool color is abnormal and should not appear black under normal circumstances. It is recommended to undergo a stool routine examination to confirm the situation. If the baby has obvious jaundice, taking Yinzi Huang oral liquid may cause the stool to turn black. Jaundice should be confirmed through examination. If the baby’s eyes are yellow and the stool color is abnormal, an examination is necessary. It is advised to take the baby to a pediatrician for routine stool examination, bilirubin tests, and for diagnosis and treatment. If jaundice persists, treatment for jaundice reduction is needed.