Suggest treatment for diarrhea in 38 weeks of pregnancy
Patient: I had 4 loose stools of diarrhea last night that were normal in color. Then today about 8 hours since my last episode of diarrhea I had a light bright green stool - like the color of green tea, soft in texture and medium in size. I have never in my life had a stool this color and I have not eaten anything green today at all and I have not changed my prenantal vitamins. Last night for supper I had cucumbers and yesterday at lunch I had green beans. I did take simethicone 370 mg total last night due to severe bloating and heartburn. I am 38 weeks and two days pregnant. I do not know what to think. Doctor: Hallow Mumma,Green colour stools suggest that you are having some intestinal infection which has resulted in diarrhoea. Now you have two intentions:1. Maintain the hydration: After each loose motion, please consume a glassful of oral rehydration solution like Electral. You should not get dehydrated. Ensure that you are passing good amount of urine. This is a good sign of proper hydration. Also observe your tongue which should be wet. If you pinch the skin on the back of your hand and release it, it should reform again without leaving the fold of skin. This is another test of hydration. Usually within 24 hours the infection gets washed off. 2. Report to the doctor ASAP. If the infection is not under control in spite of good hydration after 24 hours, you may require some antibiotics. Your Obstetrician will assess and decide about antibiotics. Since you have crossed 38 weeks of gestation, even if you go in labour, there is no harm to the baby; however you should land in labour in a healthy condition. Maintenance of hydration is a key factor. I hope this helps you.Dr. Nishikant Shrotri