Question
A 10-month-old baby has been passing black stools for several days, and the frequency and consistency of the stools are normal. A few days ago, the baby took medicine for a cold, and the medication has been stopped for two or three days, but the stools are still black. What methods can be used to adjust this situation?
Answer
The baby’s black stools may indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, and it is important to observe if the baby has a pale complexion. It is also possible that the baby has consumed black traditional Chinese medicine. It is necessary to differentiate between these possibilities and it is recommended to perform a routine fecal occult blood test. If gastrointestinal bleeding is confirmed, medical attention should be sought as soon as possible; if not, probiotics can be used to adjust the intestinal flora.