DIARRHEA

Diarrhea is when stool contains too much water, causing runny stool. Diarrhea is one of the most common health complaints. It can range from a mild, temporary condition to a potentially life threatening one. It is characterized by abnormally loose or watery stools. Most cases of diarrhea are due to bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Digestive system disorders can also cause chronic diarrhea. It can result in dehydration and malnutrition, so it is important to relieve diarrhea with suitable treatment as soon as possible.

If an individual frequently passes stools but they are of a normal consistency, this is not diarrhea. Similarly, breastfed babies often pass loose, sticky stools. This is normal.

Many cases of diarrhea are due to an infection in the gastrointestinal tract. The microbes responsible for this infection include bacteria, viruses, and parasitic organisms. Gastrointestinal infections are the most common cause of diarrhea. Spoiled or unwashed foods or contaminated drinking water can contain bacteria that can cause gastroenteritis.

Some persons have difficulty digesting certain sugars or artificial sweeteners. Consuming these substances could trigger a bout of watery diarrhea. The sugars fructose and lactose are common causes of gastrointestinal upset. Fructose is present in fruits and honey, while lactose is present in dairy products. Artificial sweeteners may also trigger diarrhea in some people. Sorbitol, mannitol, and other artificial sweeteners are common ingredients in chewing gum and sugar-free products.

Drug-induced diarrhea is the medical term for a loose, watery stool that occurs as a side effect of a particular medication. Some medications that can cause diarrhea are prescription only, while others are available over-the-counter. Some examples include antibiotics, antidepressants, chemotherapy etc

Sometimes, surgery on the stomach or gallbladder may cause post-operative diarrhea. The diarrhea may be acute or chronic. Persons who experience diarrhea following abdominal surgery should notify their doctor.

The following home remedies may help to alleviate diarrhea:

• Getting plenty of rest: Resting helps the body to fight any infection that may be present.
• Keeping hydrated: To prevent dehydration, drink plenty of water and other clear fluids. Sports drinks and electrolyte drinks are good options for replacing lost electrolytes. Alternatively, people can try Pedialyte and other OTC oral rehydration solutions.
• Eating easily digestible foods: People should stick to eating easily digestible foods, such as bananas, boiled rice, and toast.
• Eating smaller meals: The body can have difficulty digesting large meals. Try consuming several smaller meals throughout the day.
• Avoiding problem foods and drinks: Certain foods can make diarrhea worse.

Try avoiding the following foods until the symptoms have resolved:

• dairy
• fried or fatty foods
• spicy foods
• alcohol
• caffeine
• foods that trigger allergies or intolerances, such as those containing fructose, lactose, or artificial sweeteners.

Many cases of diarrhea are preventable if people take the appropriate precautions. Washing the hands thoroughly and regularly reduces the risk of infections that can cause diarrhea. Practicing good food hygiene and taking precautions when traveling will help.

Most people who have watery diarrhea will recover within a few days following appropriate home care or medical treatment. Most cases of adult diarrhea resolve in 2-4 days, while children typically get better within 5-7 days. People should seek medical treatment for diarrhea that is severe or persistent or accompanied by other symptoms. Prompt treatment reduces the risk of complications, such as dehydration and intestinal malabsorption. Some people may develop chronic diarrhea that persists for longer than 2-4 weeks. Chronic diarrhea could indicate an underlying medical condition that requires diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Treating the cause should help to ease the symptoms and improve the person’s quality of life.

Thank you for reading.