Question
An 8-month-old baby has been experiencing diarrhea for seven consecutive days, with about six bowel movements per day. Parents want to know whether they need to take the child to the hospital for treatment and how long it might take to see improvement after treatment.
Answer
Considering that the baby’s diarrhea may be caused by catching a cold or dyspepsia, it is recommended to undergo medication treatment under a doctor’s guidance. For pediatric diarrhea, the first step should be to examine and test the stool to determine if it is due to dyspepsia or enteritis. At the same time, attention should be paid to whether there is intestinal dysfunction caused by a cold. If it is dyspepsia, appropriate oral medication is recommended. In severe cases, consult a doctor, as intravenous therapy may be necessary. Additionally, extend the intervals between feedings to allow the gastrointestinal tract to rest and ensure adequate hydration. If new complementary foods have been introduced, they should be temporarily discontinued or reduced.