Diarrhea how to stop it fast. Diarrhea Relief: Essential Dos and Don’ts for Fast Recovery
How to stop diarrhea quickly. What are the best foods to eat when you have diarrhea. Which beverages should you avoid during a bout of diarrhea. What are the signs of dehydration to watch out for. How can you prevent the spread of diarrhea-causing pathogens.
Understanding Diarrhea: Causes and Risks
Diarrhea is a common condition characterized by three or more loose, watery stools per day. It can be triggered by various factors, including bacteria, viruses, medications, certain foods, and digestive disorders. While uncomfortable, diarrhea can also pose serious health risks if left untreated.
The primary concern associated with diarrhea is dehydration. Dr. Lisa Ganjhu, a gastroenterologist at NYU Langone Health, emphasizes, “The thing we worry about most is dehydration.” This occurs when the body loses more water than it takes in, leading to a deficiency in essential electrolytes – crucial minerals found in bodily fluids.
Signs of Dehydration
- Increased thirst
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Dark-colored urine or reduced urine output
- Dry skin
- Decreased skin elasticity
Severe and prolonged diarrhea can lead to complications beyond dehydration, including kidney and urinary problems. In some cases, it may indicate more serious underlying conditions such as Crohn’s disease or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Hydration Strategies: What to Drink and Avoid
Proper hydration is crucial when dealing with diarrhea. How much fluid should you consume? A general guideline is to drink at least one cup of liquid for every loose bowel movement. But what are the best beverages to choose?
Recommended Beverages
- Water
- Pedialyte
- Fruit juices
- Caffeine-free soda
- Salty broths
The Cleveland Clinic advises that salt helps slow fluid loss, while sugar aids the body in absorbing salt. Dr. Ganjhu recommends consuming all liquids at room temperature or slightly warmed, as extreme temperatures can trigger nausea.
Herbal teas, particularly chamomile preparations combined with other herbs, have shown potential in alleviating diarrhea symptoms. Some studies suggest that these herbal combinations may have favorable effects on an upset stomach.
Beverages to Avoid
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Sodas containing high-fructose corn syrup
These beverages can irritate the digestive tract and exacerbate diarrhea. A study published in the journal Healthcare found that large amounts of fructose can lead to gas, bloating, and diarrhea.
Can water sometimes be difficult to tolerate during a bout of diarrhea? Yes, in some cases. Dr. Ganjhu suggests diluting water with fruit juices like cranberry or apple to make it more palatable.
Nutrition Guidelines: Foods to Embrace and Avoid
When dealing with diarrhea, your diet plays a crucial role in recovery. What should you eat to help alleviate symptoms and support your body’s healing process?
The BRAT Diet
One time-tested dietary approach for managing diarrhea is the BRAT diet, which stands for:
- Bananas
- Rice
- Applesauce
- Toast
These foods are low in fiber, bland, and starchy, helping to replace lost nutrients and firm up stools. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) also recommends boiled potatoes, crackers, and cooked carrots.
Additional Dietary Recommendations
- Eat small, frequent meals instead of large ones
- Bake or broil meats instead of frying
- Include cooked eggs in your diet
- Listen to your body and eat when hunger strikes
Why are small meals beneficial? Dr. Ganjhu explains that consuming too much food at once can stimulate your gastrointestinal tract to move more, potentially worsening diarrhea. Eating five or six small meals rather than three large ones allows your intestines to digest food more easily.
Foods to Avoid
- Fried foods
- Gas-producing fruits and vegetables (beans, broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, leafy greens)
- Sweet foods like cookies or cakes
These foods can increase intestinal gas and exacerbate diarrhea symptoms. It’s best to avoid them until your digestive system has recovered.
Lifestyle Adjustments for Diarrhea Management
Beyond diet and hydration, certain lifestyle practices can significantly impact your recovery from diarrhea. What daily habits should you adopt to manage your symptoms effectively?
Hand Hygiene
Proper hand hygiene is crucial in preventing the spread of diarrhea-causing pathogens. Wash your hands thoroughly:
- After using the bathroom
- Before eating
- Before preparing food
How effective is handwashing in preventing diarrhea? Studies have shown that proper hand hygiene can reduce diarrhea episodes by approximately 30%.
Rest and Relaxation
Giving your body adequate rest is essential for recovery. Avoid strenuous activities and get plenty of sleep to support your immune system and promote healing.
Over-the-Counter Remedies: Pros and Cons
Over-the-counter medications can provide relief from diarrhea symptoms, but it’s important to use them judiciously. What are some common OTC options, and when should you consider using them?
Loperamide (Imodium)
Loperamide works by slowing down the movement of fluids through the intestines, which can help reduce the frequency of bowel movements. However, it should not be used if you have bloody stools or a high fever, as these may indicate a bacterial infection.
Bismuth Subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)
This medication can help relieve diarrhea, nausea, and upset stomach. It works by reducing inflammation in the intestines and may have some antibacterial properties.
When should you avoid using OTC antidiarrheal medications? If you suspect your diarrhea is caused by a bacterial infection, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider before using these remedies, as they may interfere with your body’s ability to eliminate the infection.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most cases of diarrhea resolve on their own within a few days, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. What are the red flags to watch out for?
- Severe abdominal or rectal pain
- Blood in the stool
- Black, tarry stools
- High fever (above 102°F or 39°C)
- Signs of severe dehydration
- Diarrhea lasting more than 3 days
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider promptly. They can assess the underlying cause of your diarrhea and provide appropriate treatment.
Prevention Strategies: Reducing Future Risk
While it’s not always possible to prevent diarrhea, certain practices can help reduce your risk of future episodes. What preventive measures can you incorporate into your daily routine?
Food Safety
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption
- Cook meats to appropriate temperatures
- Avoid consuming unpasteurized dairy products
- Be cautious with food when traveling, especially in areas with poor sanitation
Hygiene Practices
- Wash hands frequently, especially before eating and after using the bathroom
- Use hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available
- Avoid sharing personal items like towels or utensils
Probiotic Supplementation
Can probiotics help prevent diarrhea? Some studies suggest that regular consumption of probiotic-rich foods or supplements may help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, potentially reducing the risk of certain types of diarrhea. However, more research is needed to fully understand the preventive effects of probiotics.
By incorporating these preventive measures into your daily routine, you can potentially reduce your risk of experiencing future bouts of diarrhea. Remember, maintaining overall gut health through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management can also contribute to a more resilient digestive system.
Long-term Gut Health: Beyond Acute Diarrhea
While managing acute diarrhea is important, maintaining long-term gut health is equally crucial. What strategies can you employ to promote overall digestive wellness and potentially reduce the frequency of diarrhea episodes?
Balanced Diet
A diet rich in fiber, lean proteins, and healthy fats can support optimal gut function. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fermented foods in your regular meal plan.
Stress Management
Chronic stress can negatively impact gut health. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises into your daily routine.
Regular Exercise
Physical activity promotes healthy digestion and can help regulate bowel movements. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
Adequate Hydration
Maintaining proper hydration is essential for overall gut health. Drink water consistently throughout the day, not just when you feel thirsty.
How does a healthy gut contribute to overall well-being? A well-functioning digestive system not only reduces the likelihood of diarrhea but also supports immune function, nutrient absorption, and even mental health. By prioritizing gut health, you’re investing in your overall quality of life.
In conclusion, managing diarrhea effectively requires a multifaceted approach encompassing proper hydration, appropriate nutrition, lifestyle adjustments, and preventive measures. By following these guidelines and maintaining good gut health practices, you can minimize the impact of diarrhea on your daily life and promote overall digestive wellness. Remember, while these strategies can be helpful, it’s always important to consult with a healthcare professional if you experience severe or prolonged symptoms.
Dos and Don’ts for Quick Relief of Diarrhea
If you’re suffering from diarrhea, a condition that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, medication, foods, or various digestive disorders, there are things to do — and not do — so you can feel better fast.
Diarrhea is defined as having three or more loose, watery stools a day. It’s unpleasant and can also be dangerous if left untreated. So if you have it, it’s a good bet you’ll want to get rid of it as quickly as possible.
“The thing we worry about most is dehydration,” says Lisa Ganjhu, DO, a gastroenterologist at NYU Langone Health in New York City.
Signs of dehydration include:
- Thirst
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Dark-colored urine or less urine than normal
- Dry skin
- A decrease in skin turgor, the elasticity of the skin
When you lose more water than you take in, as is the case when you have diarrhea, you also lose essential electrolytes — important minerals that are found in blood, urine, tissues, and other body fluids, per the Cleveland Clinic.
Although dehydration is the biggest worry with diarrhea, it’s not the only one. If diarrhea is severe and persists beyond a few days, complications, including kidney and urinary problems, can arise, according to the Cleveland Clinic. It could also be a symptom of a more serious condition, like Crohn’s disease or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or a sign of a more severe infection.
Follow these dos and don’ts for managing this condition so you can feel better as fast as possible.
What to Do About Fluids When You Have Diarrhea
Do drink plenty of fluids. A good rule of thumb is to drink at least 1 cup of liquid every time you have a loose bowel movement. Water, Pedialyte, fruit juices, caffeine-free soda, and salty broths are some good choices. According to the Cleveland Clinic, salt helps slow down the fluid loss, and sugar will help your body absorb the salt.
Don’t consume beverages at extreme temperatures. Consume all liquids at room temperature, or slightly warmed, advises Dr.
Ganjhu. “Anything too hot or too cold can cause nausea.”
Do drink herbal tea. There is some research to suggest that products containing certain combinations of herbs may help an upset stomach. One research review cited the potential favorable effects of drinking a chamomile preparation that is combined with other herbs in treating diarrhea.
Don’t consume caffeine, alcohol, or certain sodas. Caffeine and alcohol can irritate the digestive tract and worsen diarrhea, according to the U.S. Library of Medicine. Sodas containing high-fructose corn syrup can also cause trouble when you have an upset stomach. According to a study published in the journal Healthcare, large amounts of fructose can lead to gas, bloating, and diarrhea.
Dilute your water with fruit juice. Water can sometimes be nauseating when you have diarrhea. Ganjhu recommends diluting it with fruit juice, like cranberry or apple juice, to make it easier to tolerate.
What to Do About Nutrition When You Have Diarrhea
Do stick with bland foods. One tried-and-true diet for diarrhea is the BRAT diet: bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. Low in fiber, bland, and starchy, these foods can help replace lost nutrients and firm up your stools. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), you can also try boiled potatoes, crackers, or cooked carrots.
Do eat small meals. Too much food will stimulate your gastrointestinal tract to move even more, says Ganjhu, and possibly worsen the diarrhea. Eating five or six small meals, rather than three large ones, can give your intestines a chance to digest the food more easily.
Don’t eat fried food. Prepare foods like beef, pork, chicken, fish, or turkey by baking or broiling, not frying, which can worsen diarrhea. Cooked eggs are okay, too, according to MedlinePlus.
Do eat when hunger strikes. Listen to your body and don’t force yourself to eat, which can worsen symptoms.
Trust your body to tell you when — and how much — it can tolerate, notes Ganjhu.
Don’t eat fruits and vegetables that cause gas. Eating gassy food when you have diarrhea can increase intestinal gas and should be avoided. This includes fruits and vegetables like beans, broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and leafy greens and sweet foods like cookies or cakes, per the Mayo Clinic.
Lifestyle Dos and Don’ts When You Have Diarrhea
Along with knowing what to eat and drink when you’re dealing with gastrointestinal woes, it’s also important to be mindful of other everyday habits to help you deal with diarrhea.
Do wash your hands. Since diarrhea can sometimes be transmitted by person-to-person contact or from contaminated hands, washing your hands after using the bathroom and before you eat or prepare food can help block possible diarrhea-causing pathogens. Handwashing can reduce episodes of diarrhea by about 30 percent, according to the U.
S. Department of Health and Human Services. To wash properly, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends wetting your hands, then applying soap and rubbing them together for at least 20 seconds. Make sure to include the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails. Rinse with clean, running water and dry thoroughly. An alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60 percent alcohol can work, too.
Do know when to call the doctor. Mayo Clinic advises to seek medical help if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Your diarrhea lasts more than two days.
- You experience severe abdominal pain or pain in your rectum.
- You’re dehydrated or exceptionally weak.
- You have a fever of 102 degrees F or higher.
- Your stools are bloody or black and tar-like.
Do consider medication. Over-the-counter (OTC) medicine containing bismuth subsalicylate (like Pepto-Bismol or Kaopectate) can help reduce intestinal inflammation and kill diarrhea-causing organisms.
(Note that bismuth products can cause dark or black stools that look like blood.) Although loperamide (Imodium), another OTC antidiarrheal medication, is sometimes recommended, Ganjhu advises against it. “This is an anti-mobility, meaning that it stops your gastrointestinal tract from moving. Although it can slow down the diarrhea, it’s better instead for it to come out,” she says. “It’s your body’s way of ridding itself of any toxins.”
Don’t exercise. Strenuous exercise has the potential to cause dehydration, stomach distress, nausea, and heartburn, which can worsen your symptoms. It’s wise to avoid it until your diarrhea subsides, advises Ganjhu, who says to wait until you’re fully recovered to go back to the gym.
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3 Ways to Treat Diarrhea
While not a pleasant topic to think about, everyone has gastrointestinal issues from time to time. One of the most common digestive problems is diarrhea, or loose, watery stools, usually accompanied by the frequent and urgent need to use the bathroom.
A typical bout of diarrhea only lasts a few days, going away on its own without any treatment.
“But severe diarrhea, diarrhea that lasts more than a few days, or prolonged episodes of diarrhea are all reasons to see a doctor, as they could indicate something more serious,” says Stephen Bickston, MD, professor of internal medicine and director of the inflammatory bowel disease program at Virginia Commonwealth University Health Center in Richmond.
It’s also important to remember that diarrhea treatments for adults, especially medication, may not be the same for children with diarrhea, so always consult your pediatrician before giving your children any medication.
If you have diarrhea, here are three ways to ease your discomfort:
1. Stay Hydrated
Your body can lose a lot of fluids and salts when you have diarrhea, making dehydration a major concern. Frequent loose and watery stools can quickly lead to fluid loss.
Here are some easy ways to stay hydrated:
- Select sports drinks or Pedialyte. Sports drinks work because of their sugar and salt content; both allow water to be more easily absorbed, and even more so when taken together. People can make their own sports drinks by adding a teaspoon of salt to a quart of apple juice, Bickston says. “That little amount of salt will help the body absorb fluids but isn’t enough to make the apple juice taste bad.” Bickston recommends keeping your drinks at room temperature because a warm drink will sit better with you than a cold one. Pedialyte is marketed toward kids, but adults can drink it, too. The drink contains both sugar and sodium to help replenish fluids.
- Stick to clear liquids. Some other good choices for treating diarrhea include clear broth and water.
- Avoid drinks that can worsen symptoms. Caffeinated, alcoholic, and sugary drinks can worsen dehydration. Milk and other dairy products can also make your symptoms worse because diarrhea can cause temporary lactose intolerance. (Temporary lactose intolerance can persist beyond the acute episode.)
2. Eat a Bland Diet
When dealing with a brief bout of diarrhea, you want to keep your diet bland. It’s important to eat if you can, although you may find it best to only have clear liquids for the first 24 hours. Then you can slowly add bland foods to your diet. Some bland foods include bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast — otherwise known as the BRAT diet.
Research shows there’s not a lot of evidence to support the benefits of following this diet, but it may not hurt. At the same time, while bananas may be okay for adults, they’re not recommended for children who’ve been vomiting.
Crackers and mashed potatoes — minus the butter — may offer a better alternative for both adults and children.
It’s best to avoid greasy, fatty, and fried foods because these can exacerbate your symptoms. You’ll also want to stay away from any foods and drinks that cause gas, which can lead to stomach cramping with diarrhea. These include beans, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, avocados, and carbonated drinks.
If diarrhea lasts more than a few days, you might want to investigate the foods you’re eating, as some can irritate your bowel and make diarrhea worse. These include foods high in fiber, such as bran, whole grains, and brown rice, as well as greasy and highly processed foods, dairy (including yogurt), and excessively sweet foods. Foods that are sweetened with sorbitol may also aggravate diarrhea, Bickston says.
Diarrhea that persists for more than two weeks should prompt a visit to your doctor. They can check for infections, food intolerances, and more serious illness.
Tests are available to see if you have a food allergy or condition like lactose intolerance, celiac disease, or a gluten sensitivity. Do not try to eliminate these foods from your diet on your own before talking to your doctor because it can alter the results of your tests.
3. Take Over-the-Counter Medication
In most cases, over-the-counter medication can be helpful in stopping an occasional bout of diarrhea — especially traveler’s diarrhea, which may result from ingesting contaminated food or water while abroad. Over-the-counter options include Imodium (loperamide) and Pepto-Bismol or Kaopectate (bismuth subsalicylate). “These are reasonable to use on occasion and have the great advantage of not requiring a doctor’s prescription,” Bickston says, adding that they should not be used for more than two days.
One thing to keep in mind is that if you take pharmaceutical remedies for traveler’s diarrhea, they may make you feel better sooner, but they could keep any bacteria, parasites, or viruses in your system longer.:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/how-to-stop-throwing-up-tips-and-treatments-770364_FINAL-5c05c29b46e0fb0001f4ca0c.png)
In most cases, diarrhea will go away on its own within a few days. If the diarrhea persists, talk to your doctor.
A Word on Probiotics
Some early studies have shown possible benefits to taking probiotics, or live bacteria and yeast that naturally live in the body.
But the American Gastroenterological Association warns that more research is needed to better understand the true effects of probiotics on digestive symptoms and recommends against taking probiotics.
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- About the polyclinic
- 29.01.2019
Views: 210495 There are several traditional remedies for diarrhea. The principle of their action is different, although in 90% of cases the cause of diarrhea is infection. Therefore, the choice of a remedy for diarrhea should take into account that this condition is only a symptom, which must be dealt with by acting on the cause.
In an acute intestinal infection, choosing a drug that acts only on the symptom can be dangerous.
For example, Imodium and its cheaper counterparts containing loperamide stop diarrhea by stimulating the gut’s opiate receptors. This leads to the fact that the tone of the locking sphincters increases, and the liquid from the feces is intensively absorbed back into the intestine. And this means that toxins, which are formed in excess as a result of infection with pathogens of intestinal infections, are also absorbed into the blood. Therefore, Loperamide is not so safe: it is forbidden to give it to children under 6 years of age.The best choice for an intestinal infection is a drug that acts in the intestinal lumen and eliminates pathogens, doctors say. Therefore, for diarrhea in adults and children, drugs are used – derivatives of nitrofuran. Furazolidone, which is included in this series and has been quite popular for many years, despite its low cost, due to its side effects (toxic effects on the liver), has lost the palm to Nifuroxazide, a safe antiseptic that acts exclusively in the intestines, not being absorbed into the blood.
Popular and recommended by doctors and pharmacists Nifuroxazide is the European drug Enterofuril. It has three forms (capsules of 100 and 200 mg, suspensions of 200 mg / 5 ml, which can be given to children from 1 month), so it is convenient to use. It has proven itself in the rapid treatment of diarrhea caused by bacteria, however, with viral diarrhea, its use is justified, doctors say: this drug prevents bacterial complications that almost always accompany viral diarrhea.Foreign and Russian clinical studies have shown that the drug preserves the beneficial intestinal microflora, eliminating such common infectious agents as Salmonella, Escherichia coli, Shigella – the causative agent of dysentery. The effect has also been proven against the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, which plays a major role in the development of gastritis and stomach ulcers.
When choosing Nifuroxazide for a child, you need to be careful: the dosage of Nifuroxazide recommended by the Ministry of Health for a child is 100 or 200 mg, depending on age, and in the form of a suspension of 200 mg in 5 ml.
In pharmacies, there is a suspension with a higher dosage of 220 mg / 5 ml from other manufacturers, which attracts a slightly lower cost. However, it is better to follow official recommendations and not take risks, because we are talking about the health of the child.Nifuroxazide is important to have in the traveler’s first aid kit: a change in the usual water and food is very often the cause of “travelers’ diarrhea”, equally insidious for both children and adults. If your child is over 3 years old, then you can save money and take the universal dosage of Enterofuril 100 mg: an adult will take two capsules, and one is enough for a child. Additionally, it is recommended to use sorbents: they help to bind and remove toxins from the intestines.
Remember that in the case of a severe intestinal infection, accompanied by dehydration, intoxication and other serious symptoms, antibiotics may be required. Therefore, in any case, you must consult a doctor.
Attention should be paid to the prevention of diarrhea.
Required:– Observe personal hygiene, wash hands.
– Subject meat, milk, chicken eggs, fish to thorough heat treatment. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating.
– If possible, boil water, especially the one that is in doubt. Avoid drinks with ice, as it is not known what water it was made from.
– Store food properly. It is especially necessary to be careful in the summer, when the air temperature is elevated, and food deteriorates faster. If you don’t like the taste or smell of a product, throw it away immediately.https://www.evrika.ru/show/kak-bystro-i-nadezhno-ostanovit-diareyu/fresh_feed/3
causes, symptoms, treatment of diarrhea: what to give, how to stop quickly
Diarrhea, also known as diarrhoea, is a fairly common ailment that affects people of all ages. In addition to tangible discomfort, it is characterized by a significant decrease in the quality of life. In some cases, there are serious complications that require treatment in a hospital, therefore, with severe diarrhea that does not stop for a long time, you should consult a doctor.
It is important to eliminate the problem in any case, even when it was provoked by taking medications or products that have a laxative effect. Sometimes you can get rid of diarrhea on your own, but there are situations when you cannot do without medical help. You will need to contact a specialist if:
- the onset of fever and its increase;
- severe pain in the abdomen;
- dehydration;
- blood and purulent inclusions in stools, as well as mucus detection;
- intoxication;
- lack of stabilization of the state for more than two days.
What is diarrhea
Diarrhea is understood as a type of disorder of the lower gastrointestinal tract, occurring against the background of frequent bowel movements, liquefaction of feces and the appearance of cutting pains in the abdomen. The disease can be provoked by poisoning as a result of taking stale or low-quality products, or be a sign of a serious pathology.
It is appropriate to talk about diarrhea when adults and children over the age of one year have liquefied or unformed stools more than three times a day. Fecal masses may contain inclusions of pus, blood, mucus, or particles of undigested food, which occurs due to a failure in the absorption of nutrients or damage to the gastrointestinal mucosa. Often, the disorder is accompanied by vomiting and nausea, as well as sharp pains in the abdomen.
Diarrhea in acute form occurs suddenly. Its duration is approximately a day or two. The chronic form is characterized by a longer duration, equal to four weeks, during which exacerbations are replaced by periods without any symptoms. The latter include:
- increased flatulence;
- general weakness;
- the appearance of bloody inclusions in the feces;
- sensation of pain during the urge to empty the bowels.
Quite often, diarrhea causes pain in the abdomen, similar to contractions, as well as belching with an unpleasant odor.
In addition, there is an increase in body temperature to thirty-eight degrees or more, vomiting and itching in the anus. In some cases, diarrhea pills help relieve unpleasant symptoms, but medical attention may also be required.Varieties
The general description of diarrhea implies an increase in the process of defecation up to three or more times within 24 hours, accompanied by liquefaction of feces. This disease has several types, which are distinguished on the basis of a number of signs.
According to the clinical course
In accordance with this symptom, the disease is classified into:
- Chronic . In this case, the symptoms bother the person for four weeks. Provocateurs are parasitic, bacterial or viral pathologies of the intestines, which are of an infectious nature.
- Acute lasting less than four weeks. The causative agents are the same diseases as for the type of diarrhea described above.
Separately, it is worth noting the so-called “traveler’s diarrhea”, which is understood as a clinical syndrome characteristic of people traveling to other climatic zones and countries.
This condition worries for no more than a week.By pathogenesis
Depending on the characteristics of the occurrence and development of diarrhea, the following types of it are distinguished:
- Osmolar characterized by copious excretion of liquid feces with a significant proportion of undigested food residues.
- Exudative characterized by mild stool with bloody or purulent inclusions.
- Secretory , occurring against the background of bowel movements in a volume exceeding a liter per day.
- Hypo- and hyperkinetic , which is a mushy or liquid stool in small volumes (one-time).
Causes of diarrhea in adults
The appearance of the disease leads to damage to the intestinal mucosa, which occurs under the influence of pathogenic microorganisms. It could be:
- adenovirus;
- salmonella;
- rotavirus infection;
- Coronavirus
- dysentery;
- E. coli;
Any of the listed pathogens can be found in contaminated food or water. In addition, dirty hands are a source.
There are also other causes of diarrhea:
- Lactose or gluten intolerance.
- Taking antibiotics for a long time.
- Frequent consumption of foods containing artificial sweeteners.
- Food poisoning.
- Inflammatory processes occurring in the pancreas.
In addition, in some cases, stool liquefaction is observed:
- During pregnancy.
- After vaccination.
- As a result of abdominal surgery.
As a rule, the liquid load of the stomach and intestines per day does not exceed ten liters. This volume also includes the digestive secret. Almost all liquid is absorbed by the large and small intestine. If the absorption process is disturbed, an increase in the volume of fluid in the lumen is observed, which provokes liquefaction of the feces.
This may be due to:- increased osmotic load resulting in accumulation of unabsorbed water-soluble substances in the intestine;
- increase the rate of transit of digested food in the lower digestive tract;
- increased excretion of intestinal secretions, as a result of which the body is not able to fully absorb it.
What diseases cause diarrhea?
Irritation of the intestinal mucosa occurs with the development of the following diseases and pathological conditions:
- Ischemia of the colon and small intestine.
- Congenital disorders of absorption.
- Neurogenic disorders.
- Pancreatic enzyme deficiency, chronic pancreatitis.
- Intestinal dysbacteriosis.
- Diseases of the thyroid gland.
- Irritable bowel syndrome.
- Tumors in the adrenal glands, pancreas or intestines.
- Obstructive jaundice.
Diarrhea with water is also a sign indicating the presence of diseases such as:
- ulcerative colitis;
- pseudotuberculosis;
- Crohn’s disease;
- amoebic dysentery;
- various viruses (roto-, COVID-19, adeno-, noro-).
Why do I have diarrhea during my period?
During the menstrual cycle, the concentration of prostaglandins in the body increases. They are hormones that affect the contraction of the smooth muscles of the intestines and uterus. This leads to the fact that during menstruation the activity of the muscle tissue of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract becomes higher. At the same time, food absorption slows down, and the release of electrolytes into the intestinal lumen increases. As a result, there is an increase in defecation. There is no need to treat diarrhea during menstruation.
Which doctor to contact for diarrhea
If there are signs indicating irritation of the intestinal mucosa and the development of diarrhea, you need to go to an appointment with a therapist. In addition, a gastroenterologist and a general practitioner can help solve the problem. Any of these specialists will prescribe the examination required for making an accurate diagnosis, which will determine the cause of the occurrence of unpleasant symptoms.
Sometimes it may be necessary to consult a parasitologist or infectious disease specialist.Diagnostics and examinations
In the event that the manifestations of the disease are noted for no more than three days, there is no reason for concern. However, the failure of attempts to independently eliminate the problem with the help of medications should be the reason for going to the doctor. In addition, you should make an appointment with a specialist if:
- fever;
- rapid weight loss;
- blood and purulent inclusions in feces;
- drop in blood pressure;
- dehydration and intoxication.
Before deciding what to give for diarrhea, the doctor will palpate the abdomen, find out the circumstances under which the symptoms arose, and also ask the patient about the presence of concomitant pathologies. In addition, the patient is weighed, body temperature and heart rate, as well as blood pressure are measured.
In the process of making a diagnosis, the specialist must solve the following tasks:
- Determine the cause of the disease. You can understand how to stop diarrhea only when you identify its provocateurs.
- Determine the duration of symptoms, which will make it possible to understand the nature of the disorder and determine the further tactics of the examination.
- Identify disorders and their severity (dehydration, intoxication, etc.).
- Exclude acute surgical pathologies.
Difficulties in making a diagnosis are rare. They appear only when diarrhea acts as the first sign of a systemic pathology, or becomes dominant in the clinical picture.
What tests should be done for diarrhea?
Analyzes are a standard component of the diagnostic program and make it possible to establish the reasons for the dilution of the drain and the increase in defecation. The list of necessary studies is determined by the doctor personally for each patient based on the duration and nature of the symptoms, as well as other factors.
As a rule, the following laboratory tests are prescribed:- general clinical and biochemical blood test;
- analysis of feces for helminth eggs, dysbacteriosis, intestinal infections.
Diarrhea instructions
Most often, if such an unpleasant problem occurs, a visit to the doctor is not required due to the fact that it quickly passes on its own. In order to accelerate the pace of normalization of the state, it is recommended:
- Drink as much liquid as possible while minimizing alcohol and caffeinated drinks.
- Add low fiber foods such as crackers, boiled eggs, rice, etc. to your daily diet.
- Avoid fatty or high-fiber foods, and spices and spices.
- Take probiotics to help restore intestinal microflora. The choice of a suitable drug should be carried out together with the doctor.
At the first signs of an intestinal disorder, Polysorb should be taken. You will need to see a specialist for examination and treatment of diarrhea if you cannot get rid of it on your own within no more than three days.
In addition, critically ill health should be the reason for an immediate visit to the doctor.Popular drugs
Various drugs are prescribed as effective tools to combat intestinal upset. Only a doctor can prescribe this or that medication, taking into account the results of a verified examination. The most popular drugs are:
Antidiarrheal, with a complex action and able to solve several problems at the same time:
- retardation of intestinal motility;
- absorption activation;
- decreased intestinal muscle tone;
- extension of fecal transit.
Of this group, the most popular is smecta for diarrhea. Loperamide-based drugs are also prescribed.
Antimicrobials, indicated for patients in whom diarrhea is a sign of a bacterial infection. They are prescribed exclusively by a doctor after receiving the results of the diagnosis. The choice in favor of a particular drug depends on the established pathogen.
It is important to remember that taking antimicrobials should be carried out exactly at the dosage indicated by the specialist. This is due to the fact that diarrhea after antibiotics is possible with their uncontrolled intake.Other medicines aimed at combating such manifestations of the disease as abdominal pain, dehydration, etc. This group includes:
- antispasmodics to relieve pain;
- enterosorbents (activated carbon) that promote the removal of toxins;
- rehydrators, replenishing the lack of fluid;
- vitamins and minerals that help replenish the deficiency of nutrients in the body, which arose against the background of fluid loss.
Clinical treatment of diarrhea
Therapy of intestinal disorders can be carried out in a hospital. This need arises when:
- Significant dehydration of the body, in which there is more than 10% underweight.
- The old age of the patient, when he does not feel thirsty and is not able to make up for the lack of fluid in the body.
- Serious condition with fever, extreme weakness, vomiting and loss of consciousness.
- Frequent vomiting and intestinal obstruction, which does not allow the body to restore the fluid content to normal levels by oral administration.
Diarrhea Diet – Do’s and Don’ts
In order to stabilize the condition with diarrhea, the diet is adjusted. During this period, it is allowed to eat:
- boiled rice;
- white bread crackers or toast;
- lean meats and fish that are to be baked or steamed;
- mashed potatoes.
In addition, you can eat baked apples and fresh bananas for diarrhea. Drink as much clean drinking water as possible to avoid excessive fluid loss. From drinks, strong black tea is also allowed.
If this problem occurs, fried, spicy and fatty foods should be abandoned in order not to aggravate the condition. For the same purpose, it is worth refusing fruits for diarrhea, as well as excluding:
- Dairy and fermented milk products.
For example, Imodium and its cheaper counterparts containing loperamide stop diarrhea by stimulating the gut’s opiate receptors. This leads to the fact that the tone of the locking sphincters increases, and the liquid from the feces is intensively absorbed back into the intestine. And this means that toxins, which are formed in excess as a result of infection with pathogens of intestinal infections, are also absorbed into the blood. Therefore, Loperamide is not so safe: it is forbidden to give it to children under 6 years of age.
Popular and recommended by doctors and pharmacists Nifuroxazide is the European drug Enterofuril. It has three forms (capsules of 100 and 200 mg, suspensions of 200 mg / 5 ml, which can be given to children from 1 month), so it is convenient to use. It has proven itself in the rapid treatment of diarrhea caused by bacteria, however, with viral diarrhea, its use is justified, doctors say: this drug prevents bacterial complications that almost always accompany viral diarrhea.
In pharmacies, there is a suspension with a higher dosage of 220 mg / 5 ml from other manufacturers, which attracts a slightly lower cost. However, it is better to follow official recommendations and not take risks, because we are talking about the health of the child.
Required:
In addition, there is an increase in body temperature to thirty-eight degrees or more, vomiting and itching in the anus. In some cases, diarrhea pills help relieve unpleasant symptoms, but medical attention may also be required.
This condition worries for no more than a week.
coli;
This may be due to:
Sometimes it may be necessary to consult a parasitologist or infectious disease specialist.
As a rule, the following laboratory tests are prescribed:
In addition, critically ill health should be the reason for an immediate visit to the doctor.
It is important to remember that taking antimicrobials should be carried out exactly at the dosage indicated by the specialist. This is due to the fact that diarrhea after antibiotics is possible with their uncontrolled intake.
