My 15-month-old just got over a little flu and he’s got diarrhea. Will giving him milk make things worse? Will using skim milk be better? Is there something in the milk that will make the runs worse?
Thanks for the help.
I am not a doctor but here’s what I know: dehydration is a concern so it’s important he get lots of fluids. You might want to try Pedialyte to rehydrate him if he won’t drink some water. It’s hard to say what effect the milk would have. I would leave it up to him- if he doesn’t want it offer him something else.
I can’t say this enough…if you’re truly concerned then contact your pediatrician. Dehydration and diarrhea is no laughing matter in an adult…much less an infant.
IANAD, however.
Anecdotally, at a little over that age Baby Kate (my 3 year old now) had a similar bout. On the phone the ped told me to keep her home and give her a spoonful of ginger ale every 1/2 hour. The water and sugars were good for her, apparently.
fyi the BRAT diet firms things up. That is Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and I think Toast. There are the three p’s to loosen things up and that is peaches, pears, and prunes. Doctor’s are not opposed to giving advice over the phone, so you should at least give them a call.
BRAT diet, definitely.
If you’re still breastfeeding, allow that as much as the child desires. Otherwise, yes, pedialyte (frozen pops may appeal?) because dehydration is a big big deal. Personally I think the stuff tastes nasty, but the frozen pops aren’t quite as bad.
I would not give cow’s milk to a child with diarrhea, personally.
I am not a doctor. I doubt any medical professional will disagree that water is essential. I’d keep the fluids at water for the time being.