Diarrhea means that you have loose, watery stools more than three times in one day. You may also have cramps, bloating, nausea and an urgent need to have a bowel movement.
Causes of diarrhea include bacteria, viruses or parasites, certain medicines, food intolerances and diseases that affect the stomach, small intestine or colon. In many cases, no cause can be found.
Most of us experience at least one episode of diarrhea every year – for some people, diarrhea strikes more often. But the more you know, the better you can control and manage it. To help speed the
road to recovery the next time you’re laid low by a bout of diarrhea, follow these 5 easy steps.
1. Why diarrhea
There are several things that can cause diarrhea – knowing which one is the most likely in your case can help you take steps to control it and avoid it in the future. The top 4 causes of diarrhea are intestinal infections, bowel disorders or diseases, food intolerance or sensitivity, and reactions to medicines.
Here are some signs to help you identify the cause of your diarrhea:
· When diarrhea is accompanied by a fever, suspect a bacterial or viral infection.
· Chronic diarrhea (lasting at least 4 weeks) might be a sign of a functional bowel disorder such as irritable bowel syndrome or celiac disease.
· If you notice a pattern to your diarrhea (for example, it always comes on after you eat a certain food), then a food sensitivity or intolerance is the likely culprit.
· Diarrhea is a common side effect of many medications.
· Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have chronic diarrhea or if you think one of your medications is causing diarrhea.
2. Watch dehydration.
An acute episode of diarrhea can lead to loss of a substantial amount of body fluids and electrolytes. This is important because it can affect muscle activity and other important body functions, including the immune system. Dehydration can be especially dangerous in infants and young children, older persons, and those with other chronic medical conditions.
3. Foods to avoid.
Some foods can cause diarrhea or make diarrhea worse. Examples include excessive caffeine or alcohol intake, artificial sweeteners such as sorbitol and mannitol, unpasteurized dairy products, foods that are greasy or high in fibre, lactose (a sugar naturally found in milk) and fructose (a sugar naturally found in fruits). Avoid any foods that you think might trigger or worsen your diarrhea. Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, thirst, less frequent or no urination, light-headedness, nausea and muscle cramps. Drinking plenty of clear fluids can help you avoid or treat dehydration. A good rule of thumb is to drink 2 cups of fluid every hour (for adults).
4. Care your digestive system.
During an episode of diarrhea, your digestive system is on “fast forward” and things are moving through faster than normal. Until your system gets back to a more natural rhythm, be gentle. Eat bland foods that are easy to digest but provide energy and nutrients, such as bananas, rice, potatoes, applesauce and bread. Avoid intense exercise such as jogging or playing contact sports for a few days after your diarrhea has resolved. Keep stress under control, since emotional or mental stress can speed up bowel movements and make diarrhea worse.
5. Consider taking an over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medication.
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Over-the-counter medicines such as IMODIUM can help stop diarrhea in adults. IMODIUM Advanced Multi-symptom can also help with discomfort caused by associated gas, cramps and bloating. IMODIUM works with your body to slow the movement of foods and fluids through your lower digestive system and helps restore it to a more normal pace. Taking IMODIUM when you get diarrhea can help you find relief, so you can get on with more important things in your life.
In most cases, diarrhea can be managed without consulting a doctor. You should see a doctor if your diarrhea lasts longer than three days, you become dehydrated, you have severe abdominal or rectal pain, your stools are bloody, black, yellow or grey, or if you have fever higher than 39ºC (102ºF).
Myth: All drinks are useful for staying hydrated during a bout of diarrhea.
Fact: Staying hydrated is very important when you have diarrhea, but you should avoid drinking coffee, alcohol, or dairy products. Drink plenty of other clear fluids, including electrolyte replacement fluids.
