What is Diarrhea?

Diarrhea is loose, watery stools more often than normal. It’s your body’s way of defending itself by getting rid of something that’s bothering your digestive tract.

Common, though not serious, it could be averagely uncomfortable and can also get very serious when it has lasted for some time or results in dehydration.

If diarrhea persists for more than a couple of days, or if you have severe symptoms like a high fever, blood in your stools, or signs of dehydration, it’s important to seek medical help.

What are the Symptoms of Diarrhea?

• Frequent, loose, or watery stools.
• Stomach cramps or pain.
• Feeling of urgency to have a bowel movement.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Bloating.
• Sometimes fever.

What is the Main Cause of Diarrhea?

Diarrhoea may occur for various reasons.

• Infections: This is the most common cause. The bacteria, viruses, or parasites in unhygienic food or water cause diarrhoea. A well-known example is food poisoning.
• Food intolerances are when some individuals cannot digest certain kinds of foods, such as lactose in milk. This gives rise to diarrhoea following the intake of such food.
• Medications: Some medications, particularly those for antibiotics, will offset the balance of bacteria within your intestines, resulting in diarrhoea.
• Digestive disorders: Disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis sometimes present themselves through persistent diarrhoea.
• Anxiety or stress: This is an emotional pressure that at times upsets your digestive system and gives you diarrhoea.

Treatment for Diarrhoea

• Most diarrhea improves on its own within a couple of days. You can ease symptoms and stop dehydration by following the below steps.
• Hydrate: You need to replace lost fluids and electrolytes with plenty of fluids, such as water, clear broths, or an oral rehydration solution.
• Eat bland foods: The foods that will help to replace nutrients include bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast-the BRAT diet-until feeling better. Avoid fatty, spicy, or sugary foods.
• Rest: Give your body a chance to recover by taking it easy.
• Medications: Antidiarrheal medicines may reduce symptoms but should not be used on a chronic basis and with caution.

Dr. Kailash Mishra
Director & Gastroenterologist Consultant
Prime Gastro Liver Clinic