Question

My daughter is experiencing loose stools. The doctor initially diagnosed it as a bacterial infection, and after treatment, there was some improvement. However, diarrhea recurs.

Answer

If the diagnosis is pediatric bronchitis, the cause and treatment can be quite complex. The main pathogens in pediatric bronchitis are respiratory syncytial virus, which can account for 80% or more; followed by adenovirus, parainfluenza virus, rhinovirus, influenza virus, etc.; and in rare cases, it may be caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae. After infection with the virus, the small airways become congested, swollen, and produce increased mucus. The mucosal epithelial cells become purulent and detach, blocking the airway lumen. Children infected with the virus should seek medical treatment promptly. Since bronchitis is caused by a viral infection, antibiotic treatment is usually not required in the early stages. If secondary bacterial infection is suspected later on, antibiotic treatment can be considered. Personally, I suggest trying the following dietary therapy for the child: Take 200 grams of cooked and peeled yam puree, 250 grams of fried and ground millet powder, and 500 grams of fried and ground almond powder. Every morning, dissolve 10 grams of millet-almond powder in hot water and add an adequate amount of yam puree. After adding sesame oil, take the mixture. This dietary therapy has the effects of invigorating Qi and nourishing deficiency, warming the middle Jiao and moistening the lungs. It is suitable for children with persistent coughs or recurrent attacks. Wishing the baby healthy growth.