#asktheexpert Dr he is doing loose motions, what is the best medication

A. For a 4-year-old experiencing diarrhea (transmotion), it's essential to focus on hydration, diet, and gentle care. Medications should be used cautiously and only under a healthcare professional's guidance. Here are some steps you can take: 1. **Hydration**: - **Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS)**: Give ORS to prevent dehydration. It’s important to follow the instructions on the packaging for the correct dosage. - **Fluids**: Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids, such as water, clear soups, and diluted fruit juices. 2. **Diet**: - **Bland foods**: Offer bland foods that are easy on the stomach, such as bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet). - **Avoid certain foods**: Stay away from dairy products, fatty foods, and sugary drinks, which can worsen diarrhea. 3. **Monitor for Dehydration**: - **Signs of dehydration**: Look for signs such as dry mouth, fewer wet diapers or trips to the bathroom, no tears when crying, and sunken eyes. 4. **Maintain Hygiene**: - **Handwashing**: Ensure your child washes their hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom and before eating. - **Clean environment**: Keep your child’s environment clean to prevent infections. 5. **Consult Your Pediatrician**: - **Medical advice**: Always consult your pediatrician if the diarrhea persists for more than a couple of days, is accompanied by fever, blood in the stool, or if your child shows signs of dehydration. Your pediatrician might recommend a probiotic or other medication if necessary. Avoid giving over-the-counter medications to your child without medical guidance, as some can be harmful to young children.