11-Month-Old Experiencing Recurring Diarrhea and Vomiting
We are currently facing a challenging situation with my daughter's health issue that began on Father's Day. At 11 months old and weighing 17.5 pounds, she has no known allergies or pre-existing medical conditions, and she takes a vitamin D supplement. Until three weeks ago, she was consuming a combination of soy-based formula and breast milk, after which I ceased breastfeeding. She continues to use the same formula that she has tolerated since she was three months old. A great eater, she has been enjoying various solid foods since she was 5 or 6 months old. About two weeks ago, right around Father’s Day, she started to suffer from severe diarrhea accompanied by intermittent vomiting. The diarrhea had a notably unpleasant odor, and the vomiting mainly occurred in her crib at night and during the early morning hours. A doctor diagnosed her with a viral gastrointestinal infection, and her stool PCR test came back negative. Unfortunately, a few days later, her condition worsened regarding her appetite and sleep, revealing she also had an ear infection. After beginning treatment with amoxicillin, her diarrhea and vomiting improved significantly. We completed the antibiotic course just two days ago. Last night, however, we experienced a frustrating setback as she exhibited troubling symptoms again, including frequent vomiting—occurring at least five times overnight—and loose stools, prompting her to wake up this morning to the same foul-smelling diarrhea. Following another visit to the doctor, they suggested it might just be a recurrence of the gastrointestinal virus, although I find it perplexing that she would have consecutive episodes. We haven't gone anywhere recently, and she had been kept at home from daycare until only two days ago. Although she showed signs of improvement while on antibiotics, I am confused about why these symptoms are returning if the medication eliminated whatever was causing her trouble. Fortunately, there has been no blood in her vomit or stools, and I can’t identify any new foods in her diet that may be causing an allergic reaction. She generally has a well-rounded diet, making it tough to pinpoint any possible food sensitivities. Is it possible that these recurrent symptoms indicate a food allergy, or could it be related to FPIES? It feels very discouraging to be back at the starting point after experiencing a brief period of relief. During today's check-up, the doctor noted that her ear appeared to be healing well, and further antibiotics were not deemed necessary. We plan to re-test her stool PCR and perform a culture to seek additional answers. What might we be overlooking?
Answers (1)
7/2/2025, 8:50:50 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about your daughter's ongoing health challenges. It's understandable to feel frustrated, especially after noticing temporary improvement. Let's break down what you're experiencing and discuss steps you can take to help support your daughter during this time.
Main Points:
- Recurring diarrhea and vomiting can be linked to infections, food sensitivities, or digestive issues.
- Monitoring her symptoms and maintaining hydration is critical.
- A thorough follow-up on potential allergies or sensitivities may be necessary.
Explanation:
The symptoms you're describing—persistent diarrhea and vomiting—can be distressing, especially in young children. After a viral gastrointestinal infection, symptoms can sometimes persist or recur, particularly if the gut flora (the balance of bacteria in the intestines) has been affected. It's good that the stool PCR test was negative, as this rules out some serious infections.
The unpleasant odor of her stools can suggest malabsorption issues, and while it's possible that she may have developed a food sensitivity, it's also plausible that her gut is still recovering from the previous infection. Given her age and dietary history, her symptoms could relate to several factors, including possible reactions to her protein sources or ongoing gastrointestinal upset.
Next Steps:
-
Hydration: Ensure she stays hydrated, particularly with oral rehydration solutions if she continues to have frequent diarrhea. This is crucial to prevent dehydration.
-
Diet Modifications: While you mention she eats a well-rounded diet, consider observing her closely for a few days as you reintroduce familiar foods, keeping a journal noting any symptoms linked to specific foods. This may help identify possible sensitivities.
-
Follow-Up Testing: Continue with the recommended stool re-testing and cultures. If her symptoms persist beyond another week or worsen, consider discussing with your doctor the possibility of allergies, such as FPIES (Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome), particularly if she shows signs of distress after certain foods.
-
Monitor Signs: Keep an eye out for any additional symptoms, such as fever, persistent irritability, or changes in activity level, and report these to your healthcare provider.
-
Probiotics Consideration: Depending on your doctor’s advice, you might explore the use of probiotics, which can help restore healthy gut bacteria after a gastrointestinal infection.
It's always difficult to see a little one unwell, but remaining vigilant and systematic about observing her condition can help you and her healthcare provider make informed decisions moving forward. Keep documenting all symptoms, as this will aid healthcare professionals in tailoring more specific recommendations. Let me know if you have questions or need any further guidance.
Related Questions
Understanding My Sensitivity to Electric Shocks: Insights from Neuropathy Testing
At over 50 years of age and identifying as AFAB, I've recently been considered for a muscle disorder that I may have been born with. My neurologist suspects a sodium or chloride channelopathy or a persistent metabolic issue, given my symptoms, test outcomes, and family history. I reside in Germany, am free of other medical conditions, and take no medication except for contraceptives, which interestingly seems to stabilize my muscle function. Throughout my life, I have experienced heightened sensitivity to electric shocks. For example, if a laptop charger is damaged, I feel tingling in my nerves and mild arrhythmias whenever the laptop comes into contact with me. And static electricity? Well, I seem to attract it. Recently, I underwent several specialized tests: Firstly, during a muscle biopsy on my thigh, the surgeon utilized a cauterization tool to control bleeding after the biopsy sample was extracted. Occasionally, I was jolted by a shock that surged into my chest, causing my upper body to lift involuntarily and my heart to miss a beat. The surgeon requested a different instrument and inspected all equipment to ensure proper grounding, yet the same shocking sensation persisted. Then, just yesterday, I had an electromyography (EMG) performed on my calf. To my surprise, I experienced similarly shocking sensations that traveled to my chest once again, along with involuntary movements and arrhythmias. The neurologist conducting the EMG shared the same level of perplexity as the surgeon did during the biopsy. What is going on in my body? Is it possible that I possess increased conductivity? Could this phenomenon be connected to my muscle disorder, especially considering the significant role of conductive elements like sodium?
Experiencing Constant Heat at 40: Seeking Insights
I have always had a tendency to feel excessively warm for as long as I can remember. I stand at 6 feet 1 inch tall and weigh around 250 pounds. I lead a highly active lifestyle, participating in yoga weekly, taking brisk walks every day, and ensuring I consume a minimum of three liters of water daily. Currently, I’m not on any medication, and my hormone tests indicate normal levels. I’ve also had my thyroid evaluated, and it showed no irregularities. Living in Edmonton, Alberta, my heat tolerance is quite remarkable. For instance: 1) I’m comfortable wearing shorts all year round at home, and I venture outside in shorts even in temperatures as low as -10 C (14 F). 2) During -40 C (-40 F) weather, I can walk for 30 minutes dressed in sneakers, sweatpants, shorts beneath, a t-shirt, and a winter jacket, along with gloves and a hat, feeling perfectly fine. 3) At nighttime, I need three fans directed at me while I sleep, and I often leave the window open, even in winter. 4) I rely on air conditioning in my vehicle as soon as temperatures reach 15 C (59 F). 5) In spring, summer, and fall, I use those three fans as well as a large frozen gel pack (approximately 2 feet by 1 foot) placed under a lightweight blanket to help cool down enough to sleep comfortably. 6) When I go to work, I opt for dress shorts and a dress shirt, and I require a fan at my workstation. I frequently retreat to the chilly server room, which is part of a data center, to cool down. 7) There are instances when I’m putting my child to bed; they have commented on the warmth radiating from me and have requested that I stop because it’s too hot. My optimal sleeping temperature is around 15 C (59 F). Is there anyone else, especially men, who can relate to this experience or provide insight into what could be causing these symptoms? I often feel lightheaded and sweaty when I can’t cool down adequately!
Enlarged Lymph Nodes in Neck and Armpits
I am a 24-year-old male with no notable family medical history, and I abstain from smoking and drinking. Beginning around May 10th, I began experiencing discomfort in my right armpit, which subsequently spread to both armpits. The discomfort was accompanied by nerve pain radiating down to my elbows and fingertips. I sought treatment from a Family Nurse Practitioner on May 29th, receiving a steroid injection, but there was no noticeable improvement. About a week later, on approximately June 8th, we identified swollen lymph nodes in my neck and armpits, all roughly the size of peas, tender (especially in the armpits), and mobile. My provider prescribed azithromycin, suspecting cat scratch fever, yet this medication did not yield any changes. Now, having completed the course, I’ve noticed additional lymph nodes in my neck and one located above my collarbone; these are soft, a bit larger than a pea, mobile, and sore to the touch. I underwent a CT scan with contrast, but I'm still awaiting the results. Over the past month, my symptoms have mostly included mild fatigue (similar to a cold), muscle discomfort, a sore throat (which appears slightly irritated), bilateral deep ear pain, and minor jaw pain on the right side. There have been no occurrences of night sweats, weight loss, or notable fatigue. Update: My lab results are satisfactory, with my white blood cell count showing an upward trend within a week, now sitting at 7.8, though still within normal limits from an initial 5.1. What could this indicate? Should I take any particular steps moving forward?
Seeking Assistance for a Friend Facing Mysterious Health Challenges
I am currently searching for guidance regarding a friend who is experiencing serious health issues. He has recently been sent to a specialized unit for uncommon infections and diseases, yet there’s been no clarity about the underlying cause of his condition. He is exhibiting several concerning symptoms including: - Jaundice - Significant weight loss - Intense skin itching - Frequent vomiting - Thinning hair Despite undergoing numerous medical examinations, professionals have not identified any abnormalities. His tests have shown: - Normal blood results - Biopsies that did not show any issues - Liver, kidney, gallbladder, and bile duct functions appearing normal, even after bilirubin tests - Absence of cancers, tumors, or hepatitis We are profoundly seeking answers, as it has been three months since my partner's sister's husband fell ill, and unfortunately, his condition is worsening. He has lost a staggering four stone in just a few weeks and has reached a point where his appetite is so diminished that he requires tube feeding. We are at a critical juncture, feeling desperate to uncover any potential explanations for his plight.
Understanding Swollen Lymph Nodes in the Neck and Armpits
A 24-year-old male, with no notable family medical background and a lifestyle that includes neither smoking nor drinking, began experiencing discomfort in his right armpit around May 10. Initially localized, this discomfort progressed to both armpits, accompanied by a nerve-like pain that radiated to his elbows and fingers. Despite seeking treatment from a nurse practitioner on May 29 with a steroid injection, he noticed no improvement. By June 8, during a follow-up, medical professionals identified pea-sized lymph nodes in his neck and armpits, which were painful—particularly in the armpits—and were movable. The initial suspicion pointed towards cat scratch disease, leading to a prescription of azithromycin; however, this treatment did not yield any noticeable change. After completing the course of antibiotics, the patient found additional lymph nodes in his neck and one situated above his collarbone. These new nodes were soft, slightly larger than a pea, and sore to the touch after manipulation. A CT scan with contrast has been conducted, but the results are pending. Over the past month, his symptoms have included mild fatigue resembling that of a cold, muscle aches, a sore throat with slight irritation observed visually, as well as bilateral deep ear discomfort and minimal jaw pain on the right side. Notably, he has not experienced night sweats, weight loss, or pronounced fatigue. What could be the underlying issue here? Is there any recommended course of action?