Question: My 2yo is having diarrhea for average 8 times a day. At first I thought is the side effect of antibiotics which she just completed for bronchiolitis. But later I found that is not. 1st day she vomitted but stopped. Now her stool is yellowish like tofu. I tried to give smecta. But she cant finish 1 pack per day. What is the dosing for smecta for 2 yo? I tried to give her more table food instead of milk. Worried about milk intolerance during diarrhea. But I saw in the other post which I need to give more milk to replace the minerals. Pls advice. (Liew lee Kuan)
Answer: Hi Liew, The most important aspect of managing diarrhoea at home is to ensure that your child is not dehydrated. And for that , it is important that the amount of fluids that she takes ia about the same if not more that her losses through her diarrhoea. If she is no longer vomiting and is able to take fluids orally, not lethargic looking , passing urine well, no high fever, then she may continue smecta at 2 sachets per day. The best way to administer this is by giving in small amount but frequently . often kids cannot take a lot at one time. Fluid does not necessary mean just milk, any fluids is allowed. Avoid sugary drink though as this may worsen the diarrhoea. However , if she is not able to take fluids as much and continues to have watery diarrhoea multiple times a day , do bring your child to the hospital. She may need to be given fluid administration via her vein. With regards to milk intolerance , this usually occurs after the episode of acute diarrhoea where the stool is watery. This condition is called secondary lactose intolerance and needs a lactose free milk for a period of 2-3 weeks whilst waiting for the intestine to heal before you can restart her back on her usual milk. For now , i am more concern with her hydration status.