Diarrhoea - when to consult GP?

[lulu40]

My ds has had diarrhoea since Fridy night - no other symptons no pain no vomiting not even going frequently but when he does very loose stools! I am finding it very difficult not to give him food as he is OK apart from loose stools when should I consult GP and any ideas about food - trying to keep it very bland no sugary things ie. toast/oatcakes etc but he is hungry

Why not try ringing the NHS direct line
0845 46 47
They are able to give medical advice on the phone and i have found them to be very good.
Hope your son is better soon.

If diarrhoea doesn't resolve after 3 days, or if the child appears dehydrated (dry mouth, sunken eyes), then contact the GP.
I was told about the BRAT diet for the runs - Banana, Rice, Apple Juice and Toast! Worked a treat for my dd!

My version of the BRAT diet has apples for apple juice, but a very dilute juice should be good for getting fluids into the child. It's always worked for me and the opposite way, too (ie, to relieve constipation, lay off those foods).

Do give your doctor a ring if you're at all worried or if it doesn't clear up soon.

My ds had d+small amount of initial vomiting over Xmas. After 5days with no improvement in the diarrhoea I took him to the GP. She said that they "don't do anything" until its been persistent for 7days when she could send off a specimen for culture. She said to continue with dairy products as there had been little published evidence to indicate further gut irritation(unless there's already an intolerance)as previously thought, and to make sure that he had plenty of liquids to prevent dehydration. Encourage longer naps or more quiet time to allow for recovery (especially if viral origins) and to wait and see. Fortunately ds's diarrhoea stopped on day 7, so no need to return to the GP, and he quickly made up his weight loss by stuffing more food than I'd ever seen him eat in the following 2weeks!
If you are at all worried though, I'd definitely go see your Gp to chat it over. I found it v useful. Better to be safe than sorry.