Blood in stool

Hello Dr. Mike, I have a 3 week old who has been on Similac with Iron, Isomil, and Alimuenium, and lastly Nutramagin. She is also on Zantac daily. Her irritation from esophageal reflux seems better but she still has blood in her stool and if very irritable while eating and moving bowels. My Pediatrician has advised us to try NEOCATE formula and is sending us to specialist. He says he has no other options for us at this point. Can you tell me is formula the only reason in infants we would see blood in stool? Sincerely, Erin F Hi

Ms. F, No, there are other reasons for blood in the stool. But, I guess I have a few questions… Is your baby a premie? Has your doc thoroughly examined your little one for fissures (tears around the rectum)? If the diagnosis of GER is absolute, has a discussion of anti-acid-type medicine (which decreases GER) been included? Has the possibility of being referred to a pediatric gastroenterologist also been discussed? Blood in a baby’s stool can sometimes be due to a baby’s bowel intolerance to certain formulas, but it can also be due to other reasons, e.g., a fissure. The first step is to perform a thorough exam of your little one. Then, to try and determine where the blood is coming from. If your doc, can’t help, then a pediatric gastroenterologist may be helpful. I hope that helps. Mike

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