Chronic Diarrhea

[ConcernedMother_x3]

I have a 4 year old adopted daughter (from the USA). We got her when she was 2 months old. She has always had diarrhea. We consulted her doctor, but was not overly concerned because her weight was on the normal scale. She also had a diagnosis of Acid reflux with a treatment of Zantac, which had no effect. Tried many different formulas, soy milk, Lactaid, and various exclusions of different types of foods. She drinks zero juice and minimal fruits. After a while we were referred to a Pediatric Gastroenterologist. He told us that she was not getting enough fat in her diet. That evening we gave her fried chicken that was so greasy that normally I would not have touched. She did have one solid stool; however we could not ever replicate those results. Potty Training is a big issue. She cannot or will not do it. She is getting left out of activities because she is not out of diapers yet. I cannot get her Pediatrician concerned because she is still in the normal height and weight scale. As a side note she also has a mild sensory problem. She “craves” deep pressure and is treated thru a physical therapist. Any ideas would be appreciated.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I agree with the referral to the pediatric gastroenterologist.

Celiac disease can be considered, and tested for with a variety of blood antibody tests.  

A colonoscopy can also be considered for a more thorough evaluation of the lower GI tract.  

Sending the stool off for analysis and culture should also be done as part of the workup.  

These options can be discussed with the GI physician.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patients education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com

[Mikie007]

I had cervical neck surgery 3 months ago. After surgery, there was no desire or feeling to poop. The MRI at fist showed full colon and intestines, then after about 30 days, nothing was still working and then we went to the hydrocolonics clinic and had everything cleaned out. Since then, nothing has happened, 100 days with no BM. I have to go to the Hydrocolonics clinic every 3 days now to get cleaned.  They tried everything form Reglan to you name it. THe doc who did the surgery will not talk or answer any questions, we found out that I had stopped breathing several times after the ventilator was removed in the OR. Then when I was finally breathing again after the crash cart came in 3 times, the doc ordered the recovery room anesthesiologist to give me 10 mg of Valium and 160 mg of Oxycontin.  No one knows what's wrong and I have been passed to 7 doctors now. All everyone seems to care about if I am suing the doctor who did the surgery.  Is there anyone who knows what this is??? I was 100% fine prior to surgery.

I was also given Reglan during surgery, and I had no problem for that medication.  

[lizziecee]

Hi - sorry to hear of your problems and wish I could help.

I am afraid you can't "piggy-back" on someone else's post as Dr. Pho only answers the initial post, which has to be paid for - think it is $19.  In my experience, neither does he answer follow up questions from the initial post.

Your situation seems very complex and unfortunately I doubt any of us with gastro problems can help. It might be best to do your own post to Dr. Pho, although I know it can be difficult to get through as he only takes about 3 posts per day.

I wish you well in your search for a diagnosis that can help you.

Liz.