Question
My one-year-old child’s stool is as runny as milk. How should I treat it?
Answer
If a child’s stool is as runny as milk, it may have a sour smell, which could indicate rotavirus enteritis. Although this condition does not require antiviral medication, it can easily lead to dehydration, even shock, in infants. If the child has symptoms such as fewer tears when crying, loss of appetite, and dry lips, seek medical attention promptly. In a regular hospital, standardization of fluid replacement based on electrolyte status should be carried out, and the child should be encouraged to drink more water. Pay attention to the child’s urine output. Since the gastrointestinal function of infants is not fully developed, it requires a longer period of recovery, possibly up to a month. It is recommended to focus on the child’s diet during this time, avoid quickly returning to normal eating habits, and can also consume a small amount of vomited formula milk.