What causes acute diarrhea. How can you treat diarrhea symptoms at home. Which over-the-counter medications provide fast relief for diarrhea. When should you see a doctor for diarrhea.

Understanding Diarrhea: Causes and Symptoms

Diarrhea is a common gastrointestinal condition characterized by loose, watery stools and increased frequency of bowel movements. It can be accompanied by various symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, bloating, and urgency to pass stool. Understanding the causes of diarrhea is crucial for effective treatment.

Common Causes of Acute Diarrhea

• Infections (bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic)
• Food intolerances and allergies
• Digestive disorders (IBS-D, inflammatory bowel disease, SIBO)
• Medication side effects (e.g., antibiotics)
• Surgical procedures on the intestine or gallbladder
• Consumption of certain foods or artificial sweeteners

Infections are a leading cause of acute diarrhea. These can be caused by various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Food intolerances, such as lactose or fructose intolerance, can also trigger diarrhea when consuming dairy products or fruits, respectively.

Over-the-Counter Medications for Diarrhea Relief

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can provide quick relief for diarrhea symptoms. However, it’s important to use them judiciously and be aware of potential side effects.

Loperamide (Imodium)

Loperamide, commonly known as Imodium, is an effective OTC medication for reducing loose stools. It works by slowing down the movement of fluids through the intestines, allowing for more water absorption and firmer stools.

Does loperamide have any side effects? While generally safe, loperamide can cause dizziness, tiredness, and constipation in some individuals. It’s important to follow dosage instructions carefully and not exceed the recommended amount.

Bismuth Subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate)

Bismuth subsalicylate is another popular OTC option for diarrhea relief. It not only helps reduce loose stools but also provides relief from other digestive issues like nausea, heartburn, and indigestion.

Is bismuth subsalicylate suitable for everyone? While generally safe, it’s not recommended for individuals with aspirin allergies or those taking blood thinners. Always consult with a healthcare provider before use, especially for children or pregnant women.

Prescription Medications for Severe Diarrhea

In cases where OTC medications are ineffective or the diarrhea is severe, prescription drugs may be necessary. The choice of medication depends on the underlying cause of diarrhea.

Antibiotics for Bacterial Infections

• Azithromycin
• Fluoroquinolones (levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin)
• Rifaximin

These antibiotics are typically prescribed for severe bacterial infections or traveler’s diarrhea. It’s important to note that antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections, which are also a common cause of diarrhea.

Antiprotozoal Medications

For diarrhea caused by parasitic infections, antiprotozoal medications like nitazoxanide (Alinia) may be prescribed. These drugs are effective against parasites such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia.

Medications for Chronic Digestive Disorders

• Eluxadoline (Viberzi) and alosetron (Lotronex) for IBS-D
• Mesalamine (Rowasa, Delzicol), olsalazine (Dipentum), and balsalazide (Colazal) for inflammatory bowel disease

These medications target specific digestive disorders and help manage chronic diarrhea associated with these conditions.

Home Remedies and Lifestyle Changes for Diarrhea Management

In many cases, diarrhea resolves on its own within a day or two. However, certain home remedies and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and promote faster recovery.

Hydration

Staying well-hydrated is crucial when experiencing diarrhea. Drink plenty of water and consider electrolyte-rich fluids like sports drinks to replace lost minerals. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, as they can worsen dehydration.

Are there any fluids to avoid during diarrhea? It’s best to avoid certain fruit juices, particularly apple juice, as they can exacerbate diarrhea symptoms in some individuals.

Diet Modifications

Following a bland diet can help ease digestive discomfort during a bout of diarrhea. Opt for easily digestible, low-fiber foods such as:

• Rice
• Bananas
• Toast
• Boiled potatoes
• Lean chicken or turkey

Avoid fatty, spicy, or sugary foods that can irritate the digestive system.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Diarrhea

While most cases of diarrhea resolve on their own, there are instances when medical attention is necessary. Be aware of the following warning signs:

• Diarrhea lasting more than 2-3 days
• Signs of severe dehydration (extreme thirst, dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness)
• High fever (above 102°F or 39°C)
• Severe abdominal or rectal pain
• Blood in the stool
• Black, tarry stools

If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a healthcare provider promptly. They can determine the underlying cause and prescribe appropriate treatment.

Preventing Diarrhea: Tips for Maintaining Digestive Health

While it’s not always possible to prevent diarrhea, certain practices can reduce your risk of developing this condition:

Proper Hygiene

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the bathroom
• Clean and disinfect surfaces regularly, particularly in the kitchen and bathroom
• Avoid sharing personal items like towels or eating utensils

Food Safety

Practicing good food safety habits can significantly reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses that cause diarrhea:

• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption
• Cook meats to appropriate temperatures
• Refrigerate leftovers promptly
• Avoid consuming unpasteurized dairy products

Travel Precautions

When traveling to areas with different sanitation standards, take extra precautions to prevent traveler’s diarrhea:

• Drink only bottled or boiled water
• Avoid raw or undercooked foods
• Be cautious with street food
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers frequently

Special Considerations for Diarrhea in Children and Elderly

Diarrhea can be particularly concerning in certain populations, such as young children and the elderly. These groups are more susceptible to dehydration and other complications.

Diarrhea in Children

Children, especially infants and toddlers, can become dehydrated quickly when experiencing diarrhea. Parents should be vigilant for signs of dehydration, including:

• Dry mouth and tongue
• No tears when crying
• Sunken eyes or cheeks
• Decreased urination or dry diapers for several hours
• Irritability or lethargy

Should you give OTC anti-diarrheal medications to children? It’s crucial to consult a pediatrician before administering any OTC medications to children. Some anti-diarrheal drugs are not recommended for young children and can have adverse effects.

Diarrhea in the Elderly

Older adults are also at higher risk of complications from diarrhea. They may have underlying health conditions or take medications that can exacerbate the effects of diarrhea. Key considerations for managing diarrhea in the elderly include:

• Monitoring fluid intake and encouraging regular hydration
• Being aware of potential drug interactions with anti-diarrheal medications
• Watching for signs of electrolyte imbalances
• Seeking medical attention promptly if symptoms persist or worsen

Understanding the Role of Probiotics in Diarrhea Management

Probiotics, often referred to as “good bacteria,” can play a beneficial role in managing and preventing diarrhea. These live microorganisms help maintain a healthy balance of gut flora, which is crucial for digestive health.

Benefits of Probiotics for Diarrhea

• Reducing the duration and severity of infectious diarrhea
• Preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea
• Supporting overall gut health and immune function

How do probiotics work against diarrhea? Probiotics help by competing with harmful bacteria for resources, producing substances that inhibit pathogen growth, and enhancing the gut’s protective barrier.

Choosing the Right Probiotic

When selecting a probiotic for diarrhea management, consider the following factors:

• Strain specificity: Different probiotic strains have varying effects. Look for strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG or Saccharomyces boulardii, which have shown effectiveness against diarrhea.
• Colony-forming units (CFUs): Higher CFU counts generally indicate a more potent probiotic.
• Quality and storage: Choose reputable brands and follow storage instructions to ensure the probiotics remain viable.

It’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any probiotic regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

Long-Term Management of Chronic Diarrhea

For individuals dealing with chronic diarrhea due to conditions like IBS-D or inflammatory bowel disease, long-term management strategies are essential. These may include:

Dietary Modifications

• Identifying and avoiding trigger foods
• Following a low FODMAP diet under professional guidance
• Ensuring adequate fiber intake while avoiding excessive amounts

Stress Management

Stress can exacerbate digestive issues. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques can be beneficial:

• Regular exercise
• Mindfulness and meditation practices
• Adequate sleep
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy

Ongoing Medical Management

Working closely with a gastroenterologist or healthcare provider is crucial for managing chronic diarrhea. This may involve:

• Regular check-ups and monitoring
• Adjusting medications as needed
• Exploring new treatment options as they become available

Can chronic diarrhea be completely cured? While chronic diarrhea related to certain conditions may not have a definitive cure, proper management can significantly improve quality of life and reduce symptom frequency and severity.

Understanding diarrhea, its causes, and treatment options is essential for effective management. While over-the-counter medications can provide relief in many cases, it’s important to be aware of when to seek medical attention. By following proper hygiene practices, maintaining a healthy diet, and staying informed about your digestive health, you can better manage and prevent episodes of diarrhea. Remember, persistent or severe symptoms should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional to ensure appropriate treatment and prevent complications.

What is the Best Anti-Diarrhea Medicine?

Written by
Juhi Modi

Medically reviewed by
HaVy Ngo-Hamilton, Pharm.D.
| Apr 12, 2023

Diarrhea is a very common condition. Most people get it multiple times in their life for different reasons. It typically consists of loose or watery stools and more frequent bowel movements than usual (more than three times a day). Diarrhea can be accompanied by other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, discomfort, indigestion, bloating, fever, blood or mucus in the stool, and urgency to pass stool. 

Please continue reading to learn about some prescription anti-diarrheal medicines and over-the-counter medicines that can ease diarrhea. But if you are feeling ill, having fevers, or experiencing large volumes of diarrhea for more than 48-72 hours, you should first alert your doctor.

What causes acute diarrhea?

Common causes of diarrhea include infection caused by bacteria, viruses, yeast, and parasites. Diarrhea is also a common symptom in digestive disorders like food intolerances, food allergies, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D), ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease (inflammatory bowel disease), and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). Surgery on the intestine or gallbladder can lead to diarrhea. 

Additionally, many medications, including antibiotics, can cause diarrhea as a side effect. People with gastrointestinal conditions like lactose intolerance develop diarrhea after consuming milk and other dairy products. Similarly, patients with fructose intolerance can develop diarrhea after eating fructose, a natural sugar found in fruits. Artificial sweeteners like mannitol, erythritol, and sorbitol can cause diarrhea in some people as well. 

What stops diarrhea the fastest? 

Most cases of diarrhea clear on their own without treatment. However, your healthcare provider may prescribe medications if your symptoms do not improve after two days.

What medications are used to treat diarrhea symptoms?

Over-the-counter medications

You can take anti-diarrheal medicines for OTC relief of diarrhea symptoms—for example, loperamide (Imodium) and bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto Bismol, Kaopectate). These drugs help to reduce the number of loose stools. 

However, remember that OTC medications can prolong diarrhea caused by bacterial and parasitic infections by preventing your body from getting rid of the germs. Also, medications like loperamide can cause side effects like dizziness, tiredness, and constipation. In addition, be sure to check with your doctor before giving any OTC medication meant for adults to children.

Prescription medications

Prescription drugs used to treat diarrhea are available. The choice of medication depends on the cause. It may include:

• Antibiotics such as azithromycin, fluoroquinolones (levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin), and rifaximin may be used for bacterial infections such as traveler’s diarrhea if the infection is severe enough. However, antibiotics will not stop diarrhea caused by viruses.
• Antiprotozoal medications like nitazoxanide (Alinia) can help treat diarrhea where parasites like Cryptosporidium and Giardia are the cause.
• Medications such as eluxadoline (Viberzi) and alosetron (Lotronex) are helpful for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D). 
• Medications such as mesalamine (Rowasa, Delzicol), olsalazine (Dipentum), and balsalazide (Colazal) help reduce inflammation in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

What is the best medicine to stop diarrhea?

The best medicine to stop diarrhea depends on the cause. As mentioned, most cases of diarrhea resolve on their own without treatment. Over-the-counter medicines like bismuth subsalicylate and loperamide can help to control symptoms in mild to moderate cases of diarrhea. If the diarrhea is severe and seemingly from an infection, your doctor may prescribe a medication such as an antibiotic, depending on the cause.  

What options exist other than Imodium for diarrhea?

Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) is another option other than Imodium A-D (loperamide). If you are experiencing other symptoms such as nausea, heartburn, and indigestion in addition to diarrhea, Petop-Bismol may be the medication for you.

Can home remedies help relieve diarrhea? 

Most of the time, diarrhea goes away within a day or two, even without treatment. The following can help you cope with the symptoms in the meantime: 

• Stay well hydrated with water and other fluids like sports drinks, but avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can be dehydrating. Keep in mind that certain fruit juices, like apple juice, can worsen dehydration.
• Eat a bland diet and semi-solid or low-fiber foods like crackers, rice, and chicken. Doctors recommend a BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast).
• Avoid dairy products and fatty, acidic, spicy, or high-fiber foods until your symptoms resolve.

When to see a doctor for diarrhea?

In many cases, diarrhea is a short illness that lasts for a few days. This is usually the case when the symptoms are due to an infection like traveler’s diarrhea. However, sometimes diarrhea can continue for weeks or even months. This may be an indication of an underlying problem such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other serious disorders like persistent infections or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). You should consult a doctor if:

• Diarrhea persists for more than 2 days without improvement.
• You have signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, dizziness, lightheadedness, tiredness, reduced urination, and dark yellow urine.
• You have bloody or black/tarry stools.
• You have severe abdominal pain or rectal pain.
• You have a fever above 102 F (39 C).

References:

1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diarrhea/symptoms-causes/syc-20352241
2. https://wwwnc. cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2020/preparing-international-travelers/travelers-diarrhea
3. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a603017.html#
4. https://www.viberzi.com/
5. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/inflammatory-bowel-disease/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353320

Antidiarrheal Medicines – OTC Relief for Diarrhea – 811.novascotia.ca

If you are having any symptoms or have any questions, please call 811 to speak with a registered nurse 24 hours a day.

Diarrhea is when you have frequent and liquid bowel movements. Many things can cause it, including:

• Viruses.
• Bacteria and parasites.
• Medicines such as antibiotics.
• Lactose intolerance.
• Fructose or artificial sweeteners.
• Digestive disorders such as celiac disease or irritable bowel syndrome.

It is a common condition that most of the time doesn’t require treatment. It usually lasts only a couple of days, whether you treat it or not. But medicine can help you feel better.

What types of OTC medicines treat diarrhea?

Over-the-counter medicines are medicines you can buy without a prescription from your healthcare provider. Some OTC medicines can help you feel better if you have diarrhea. These are called antidiarrheal medicines. Antidiarrheal medicines include:

• loperamide (1 brand name: Imodium)
• bismuth subsalicylate (2 brand names: Kaopectate, Pepto‑Bismol)

Bismuth subsalicylate can also be used for upset stomach.

How do OTC antidiarrheal medicines work?

Loperamide slows down how fast things move through your intestines (bowels). This allows more fluid to be absorbed into your body. This helps you have less diarrhea and more formed stools.

Bismuth subsalicylate balances the way fluid moves through your intestines. It reduces inflammation. It keeps bacteria and viruses that cause diarrhea from growing in the stomach and intestines.

How do I safely take OTC antidiarrheal medicines?

Read the directions on the drug facts label to learn how much medicine to take and how often to take it. If you have any questions about how much medicine to take, contact your family healthcare provider or pharmacist. Keep a record of which OTC medicines you are using and when you take them. If you need to go to the healthcare provider, take this list with you.

Follow these tips to make sure you are taking the right amount of medicine:

• Take only the amount recommended on the medicine’s label. Don’t assume that more medicine will work better or quicker. Taking more than the recommended amount can be dangerous.
• If you are taking a prescription medicine, ask your healthcare provider if it’s okay to also take an OTC antidiarrheal medicine.
• Don’t use more than 1 OTC antidiarrheal medicine at a time unless your healthcare provider says it’s okay. They may have similar active ingredients that add up to be too much medicine.

How can I safely store OTC antidiarrheal medicines?

Store all medicines up and away, out of reach and sight of young children. Keeping medicines in a cool, dry place will help prevent them from becoming less effective before their expiration dates. Do not store medicines in bathrooms or bathroom cabinets, which are often hot and humid.

Things to Consider

Healthy adults usually don’t experience side effects from antidiarrheal medicines. However, side effects may be a concern for older adults or people who have health problems. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice any side effects.

 Loperamide side effects may include:

• Abdominal pain
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting

Bismuth subsalicylate side effects may include:

• Constipation
• Blackened stools and/or tongue
• Ringing sound in the ear (called tinnitus

Who shouldn’t take OTC antidiarrheal medicines?

Don’t take antidiarrheal medicines if bacteria or parasites are causing your diarrhea. If you have a “stomach bug,” your body needs to get rid of the bacteria or parasite that is causing the diarrhea. Stopping the diarrhea in this case can actually make your condition worse. Contact your healthcare provider if you think you have a bacterial or parasitic infection.

Do not give your child a medicine for diarrhea without talking to your health care provider.

You shouldn’t take loperamide if you have a fever, or if you’ve ever had a rash or an allergic reaction after taking it. Don’t take loperamide if you have bloody or black stools. These may be signs of a more serious problem, including a bacterial infection, so contact your family healthcare provider.

Some people are allergic to aspirin or other salicylate medicines. They should not take bismuth subsalicylate. Don’t give bismuth subsalicylate to children 12 years of age or younger. Don’t give it to children or teenagers who may have the flu or chickenpox. This increases their risk for Reye syndrome. This is a serious illness that can lead to death

Can OTC antidiarrheal medicines cause problems with any other medicines I take?

Taking certain medicines with antidiarrheal medicines can increase your risk for side effects. Bismuth subsalicylate also may affect some medicines, causing them not to work as well. Ask your doctor before taking loperamide or bismuth subsalicylate if you also take:

• Antibiotics
• Antiviral medicines for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
• Prescription pain medicines
• Blood-thinning medicines.
• Medicines for gout.
• Medicines for arthritis.
• Medicines for diabetes.

Also ask your healthcare provider before taking bismuth subsalicylate if you take pain relievers or cold medicines. These medicines may contain aspirin, which is a salicylate. You may get too much salicylate if you take more than one of these medicines at a time.

When should I contact my healthcare provider?

Contact your healthcare provider before taking an antidiarrheal medicine if:

• Your diarrhea lasts longer than 2 days.
• You have a fever.
• You have mucus or blood in your stools.
• You have a history of liver disease.
• You are taking prescription medicine.

Traveler’s diarrhea – symptoms and treatment of diarrhea on vacation or on vacation

Author, editor and medical expert – Zavgorodnyaya Ekaterina Alexandrovna.

Editor and medical expert – Harutyunyan Mariam Harutyunovna.

Number of views: 370 759

Date last updated: 06/25/2023

Contents:

How to prevent traveler’s diarrhea
Geographical distribution
Symptoms of traveler’s diarrhea
Prevention of traveler’s diarrhea (diarrhea)
Nutrition while traveling
Treatment of traveler’s diarrhea (diarrhea)
How to treat traveler’s diarrhea

When visiting exotic countries, it is important to assess the adverse effects of climate and conditions life on your health, including the digestive organs.

Top of page

How to prevent traveler’s diarrhea

The hot climate of exotic countries increases the chances of eating spoiled or poor-quality food or contaminated water. This is the main cause of traveler’s diarrhea, which causes quite serious discomfort. Even when episodes of diarrhea are not repetitive or debilitating, they can significantly ruin a trip.

The risk group mainly includes people who prefer to relax in warm countries, and in this section you will get acquainted with recommendations for maintaining health on the road.

Back to top

Geographic distribution

Traveling to certain countries significantly increases the risk of diarrhea. The most disadvantaged in terms of the risk of developing gastrointestinal disorders are:

1. Asia

2. African countries

3. South American countries

On our website you can find a map of “Hot Spots” for travel (green indicates the safest countries, red – the most dangerous in terms of the spread of intestinal infections):

Up to content

Traveler’s diarrhea symptoms

Intestinal upset usually occurs 2-4 days after arrival in a new country. Frequent diarrhea may be accompanied by vomiting, pain in the abdomen, joints and muscles, fever.

Back to Contents

Prevention of Traveler’s Diarrhea

Eating while traveling and following certain restrictions will help avoid diarrhea:

• for drinking, making food ice and brushing your teeth, use water that you are sure of – boiled, bottled, purified with special antiseptics;

• canned and bottled drinks, check for package integrity and expiration date;

• avoid swimming in natural waters where the water may be contaminated with bacteria. When swimming in any body of water and even in the shower, try not to swallow water;

• eat foods that have been cooked;

• Dispose of leftover food and prevent storage and reheating. Diarrhea on the road often occurs due to improper storage of food without control over their expiration dates;

• Wash hands thoroughly and with detergent before eating.

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Food during the trip

When planning a trip to “risk areas”, completely exclude the following foods :

• fruits, vegetables and herbs washed under the tap;

• ice cream and dairy desserts;

• fast food;

• cold meat and fish snacks, raw seafood;

• dishes after reheating.

Top of page

Treatment of traveler’s diarrhea (diarrhea)

Traveler’s diarrhea is dangerous because during its long course the body loses fluid and minerals necessary for proper water-salt metabolism. In order to prevent deterioration of health and speed up recovery, the following actions are recommended for diarrhea:

• Drink enough fluid to make up for the loss of fluid from diarrhea. Drink plenty of bottled and boiled water. Children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems should take special products that restore the water-salt balance;

• Travel nutrition is an important factor, so avoid caffeinated drinks (tea, coffee, coca-cola, etc. ), replace yeast baked goods with crackers and dried toast. Also exclude “heavy” foods from the diet – fried, spicy, spicy, fatty foods. Include easily digestible foods in your diet – rice, whole grain bread, mashed soups, which will help restore normal digestive processes. Gradually add baked potatoes and other simple baked or boiled foods as you feel better;

• it is important to stop diarrhea to stop the loss of water and nutrients: IMODIUM ^® Express will help you with this, an over-the-counter drug that restores bowel function and normalizes its functions. IMODIUM ^® Express works within one hour after you take it.

• Traveler’s diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours with fever and blood and/or mucus in the stool requires immediate medical attention.

Back to Contents

Treating Traveler’s Diarrhea

Diarrhea can happen even if you’re very careful while traveling. Therefore, it is important to take IMODIUM ^® Express with you when you travel. It quickly calms the intestines, bringing it back to normal. The tablet does not need to be taken with water. It dissolves in the mouth in 2-3 seconds and stops diarrhea in an hour. This is especially important when traveling or on vacation when you don’t want to waste a single day due to diarrhea.

The information in this article is for reference only and does not replace professional medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment, contact a qualified specialist.

“Imodium is contraindicated for use in children under 6 years of age.”

Learn more about IMODIUM ^® Express

Read also:

• How to stop diarrhea?
• What can you eat with diarrhea and what not?

Bacterial diarrhea in children and adults

The warm months of the year are traditionally considered the period of intestinal infections.

Doctor’s consultation

You can get the consultation of the necessary specialist online in the Doctis application

Laboratory

You can undergo a comprehensive examination of all major body systems

• Hygiene rules in the summer
• Signals from an upset bowel
• Symptoms of intestinal infection and poisoning
• How to properly treat bacterial diarrhea
• Activated carbon and adsorbents
• Antidiarrheals
• Nutrition in case of poisoning
• Rehydration
• When antibiotic therapy is required

The warmer it is outside, the more free all kinds of pathogenic microorganisms feel, and the
shorter shelf life of products. In addition, at this time of the year, many go on picnics, have breakfast on the grass,
eat greens straight from the garden. And such behavior is fraught with pain in the abdomen and frequent visits to the toilet.

Every year, according to official data, about 800 thousand cases of intestinal infections occur in our country.
Therefore, today even a child knows what diarrhea is. However, alas, people continue to neglect
rules of elementary sanitation, so they get sick again and again.

And the rules, meanwhile, are elementary. Any intestinal microbe gets on products from the gastrointestinal
path of the one who wears it in himself. The man did not wash his hands after the toilet, grabbed the food on the table –
and that’s it, consider that everyone around is infected.

Simple hygiene rules

• Doctors strongly recommend in the warm season (as well as in any other) to store
  food in the refrigerator and do not leave them for a long time in the open air.
• Also, wash your hands both before and after going to the toilet, and in general, as often as possible.
• And never touch food with dirty hands!

Signals from upset bowels

However, if you still failed to protect yourself, it does not hurt to know how intestinal infections go. Begin
they are most often with heartburn. This is due to the fact that under the pressure of gases that are produced by harmful
bacteria, acidic contents enter the esophagus, where it does not belong at all.

Then there is an unpleasant heaviness and bloating of the abdomen. Again, because bacteria actively multiply and produce
gas. As a result, the intestines literally swell, which causes serious discomfort for many and even
pain.

Symptoms of intestinal infection and poisoning

Another important symptom of poisoning is nausea, which is a consequence of general intoxication of the body (bacteria
because they release toxic toxins). Even with poisoning, intestinal spasms can occur. And, of course, none
poisoning is not complete without upsetting the stool.

Diarrhea is caused by the body trying to get rid of toxins –
says gastroenterologist Alexei Bueverov. – If the process is intensive, it is not so
safe, as many frivolously believe. Especially when it comes to children or older people, as well as
chronic patients. During diarrhea, the body intensively loses water, as well as the necessary
minerals and salts, and this is fraught with problems with cardiac activity, and in some
cases are at risk of death.

How to properly treat bacterial diarrhea

What to do? Perhaps everyone has their own recipe for diarrhea. However, as they say
expert gastroenterologists,
very often people are treated with intestinal infections completely wrong.

For example, they incorrectly “throw” charcoal or other adsorbent drugs , which are mainly
relieve the symptoms, but are not able to act on the cause of the disease. In other words, these drugs
only remove the toxins that bacteria produce, while leaving the bacteria themselves unharmed.

However, if we are talking about viral diarrhea, then it will go away on its own without consequences. And adsorbents with her
won’t hurt. Another thing is if the diarrhea is bacterial, that is, if it is accompanied by pain in the intestines,
elevated body temperature, the presence of mucus and blood in the stool. In this case, take medications such as
coal is dangerous – they can mask the manifestations of the disease.

Not the best thing to do in such a situation, and “drugs for diarrhea” , which in fact
only inhibit intestinal motility, essentially locking its contents from the inside. Together with all toxins and harmful
bacteria. This may end up with the disease dragging on, and in the worst case, leading to intestinal
obstruction. As Dr. Bueverov notes, such drugs are indicated only in cases of non-infectious diseases.
chronic diarrhea, which occurs with a number of inflammatory bowel diseases or irritable bowel syndrome
intestines.

In case of bacterial poisoning, it is very important to monitor nutrition (exclude all dairy, fresh vegetables and fruits;
your diet is boiled potatoes, stale bread, porridge in water).