What are the common causes of diarrhea. How can you identify the symptoms of diarrhea. What treatments are available for stopping diarrhea. When should you seek medical attention for diarrhea. How can you prevent dehydration during a bout of diarrhea. What dietary changes can help alleviate diarrhea. Are there any natural remedies that can help stop diarrhea.

Understanding Diarrhea: Causes and Symptoms

Diarrhea is a common gastrointestinal issue that can be both uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life. It is characterized by frequent, loose stools and is often a symptom of an underlying health problem. Understanding the causes and symptoms of diarrhea is crucial for effective management and treatment.

Common Causes of Diarrhea

Diarrhea can be triggered by various factors, including:

• Bacterial, parasitic, or viral infections
• Consumption of contaminated food or water
• Reactions to medications or dietary supplements
• Intolerance to certain foods or artificial sweeteners
• Underlying intestinal disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or Crohn’s disease

Traveler’s diarrhea is a common occurrence when consuming local food and water in unfamiliar destinations. This highlights the importance of being cautious about food and water sources while traveling.

Recognizing Diarrhea Symptoms

Identifying the symptoms of diarrhea is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. The most common signs include:

1. Frequent and loose stools
2. Abdominal pain and cramping
3. Fever and chills
4. General feeling of illness
5. Increased thirst
6. Unexplained weight loss

In children, particularly infants, dehydration is a serious concern. Parents should be vigilant for signs such as dry diapers for extended periods or crying without tears.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Diarrhea

While most cases of diarrhea resolve on their own, there are instances where medical intervention is necessary. Understanding when to consult a healthcare professional is crucial for preventing complications.

Red Flags for Medical Attention

Seek immediate medical care if you experience any of the following:

• Diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours in children or 48 hours in adults
• Signs of severe dehydration (extreme thirst, dry mouth, little or no urination)
• Blood in the stool
• Severe abdominal or rectal pain
• High fever (above 102°F or 39°C)
• Symptoms of diarrhea in infants younger than 6 months

Chronic diarrhea, persisting for more than four weeks, may indicate a serious underlying condition and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Diagnostic Approaches for Diarrhea

When you visit a doctor for diarrhea, they will typically follow a systematic approach to diagnose the underlying cause and determine the appropriate treatment.

What to Expect During a Medical Examination

During your visit, the healthcare provider may:

1. Ask detailed questions about your symptoms and medical history
2. Perform a physical examination, including checking for signs of dehydration
3. Palpate your abdomen to check for tenderness or abnormalities
4. Listen to your abdomen with a stethoscope
5. Order blood tests to check for infection or other abnormalities
6. Request a stool sample for laboratory analysis

These diagnostic steps help the doctor determine the cause of your diarrhea and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment Options for Diarrhea

The treatment of diarrhea depends on its cause, severity, and duration. In many cases, diarrhea will resolve on its own without specific treatment. However, there are various options available to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Over-the-Counter Remedies

While it’s generally best to let diarrhea run its course, over-the-counter medications can provide relief in some cases:

• Attapulgite (Kaopectate)
• Loperamide (Imodium)
• Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)

It’s important to note that bismuth subsalicylate should not be taken with certain herbs, including meadowsweet, white willow, or wintergreen, due to potential interactions.

Prescription Medications

In severe cases or when diarrhea is caused by a specific pathogen, your doctor may prescribe:

• Diphenoxylate and atropine (Lomotil) for symptom relief
• Antibiotics if a bacterial infection is identified

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions when taking prescription medications.

Preventing Dehydration During Diarrhea

One of the most critical aspects of managing diarrhea is preventing dehydration, especially in children and the elderly. Maintaining proper fluid balance is essential for recovery and avoiding complications.

Effective Hydration Strategies

To prevent dehydration during a bout of diarrhea:

1. Drink plenty of clear fluids, such as water, clear broths, and electrolyte solutions
2. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can worsen dehydration
3. Consume oral rehydration solutions containing balanced electrolytes and sugars
4. For children, use pediatric electrolyte solutions as recommended by a healthcare provider
5. Consider homemade options like rice or barley water, which can help restore electrolyte balance

Is it safe to consume sports drinks for rehydration during diarrhea? While sports drinks contain electrolytes, they often have high sugar content, which may exacerbate diarrhea. Oral rehydration solutions specifically designed for diarrhea are generally a better choice.

Dietary Considerations for Managing Diarrhea

Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in managing diarrhea and supporting recovery. Certain dietary choices can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing of the digestive system.

The BRAT Diet and Beyond

The BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) has traditionally been recommended for diarrhea management. However, current guidelines suggest a more varied approach:

• Start with clear liquids and gradually introduce solid foods
• Choose easily digestible, low-fiber foods
• Incorporate lean proteins like chicken or fish
• Consume probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt with active cultures
• Avoid dairy products if lactose intolerance is suspected
• Steer clear of fatty, spicy, or heavily seasoned foods

How long should you follow a restricted diet after diarrhea? Generally, you can return to your normal diet within 24 to 48 hours of solid stools. However, continue to avoid foods that seem to trigger or worsen symptoms.

Natural and Alternative Remedies for Diarrhea

Complementary and alternative therapies can offer additional support in managing diarrhea. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before trying any new treatments, especially if you’re pregnant or have underlying health conditions.

Probiotics and Herbal Remedies

Several natural remedies have shown promise in alleviating diarrhea:

• Probiotics: Lactobacillus GG, acidophilus, and bifidobacteria may help restore gut flora balance
• Saccharomyces boulardii: A beneficial yeast that may prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea
• Chamomile tea: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties
• Peppermint: May help soothe digestive discomfort
• Ginger: Can aid in reducing nausea associated with diarrhea

Can probiotics be taken alongside conventional diarrhea treatments? In most cases, probiotics can be safely used in conjunction with other treatments. However, individuals with compromised immune systems should consult their healthcare provider before using probiotics.

Preventing Diarrhea: Hygiene and Lifestyle Practices

While not all cases of diarrhea can be prevented, adopting certain hygiene and lifestyle practices can significantly reduce your risk of developing this condition.

Key Prevention Strategies

To minimize your chances of experiencing diarrhea:

1. Practice good hand hygiene, washing hands thoroughly with soap and water
2. Ensure proper food safety, including cooking meats thoroughly and washing fruits and vegetables
3. Be cautious with water sources, especially when traveling
4. Stay up-to-date with vaccinations, particularly those that protect against diarrhea-causing pathogens
5. Avoid sharing personal items like towels or eating utensils
6. Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle to support your immune system

How effective is hand sanitizer in preventing diarrhea-causing infections? While hand sanitizers can be helpful, they are not as effective as thorough handwashing with soap and water, especially against certain pathogens like norovirus.

Understanding diarrhea, its causes, and effective management strategies is crucial for maintaining digestive health. By recognizing symptoms early, seeking appropriate medical care when necessary, and implementing preventive measures, you can minimize the impact of diarrhea on your daily life. Remember that while most cases of diarrhea resolve on their own, persistent or severe symptoms warrant medical attention. Stay hydrated, follow dietary recommendations, and consider natural remedies as complementary approaches to conventional treatments. With proper care and attention, you can effectively manage diarrhea and support your overall digestive wellness.

Diarrhea Information | Mount Sinai

Signs and Symptoms

Diarrhea is a symptom of another health issue, such as an infection or a virus. Chronic diarrhea, lasting longer than 4 weeks, can be a sign of a serious illness, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Symptoms may include:

• Frequent and loose stools
• Abdominal pain, cramping
• Fever, chills, general sick feeling
• Thirst
• Weight loss

If your child has diarrhea, call your pediatrician if it lasts more than 24 hours, or if your child seems dehydrated. For an infant, this could mean having a dry diaper for several hours or crying without tears.

What Causes It?

Most diarrhea is caused by bacteria, parasites, or viruses, often from food or water. Eating local food and drinking local water during travel can result in “traveler’s diarrhea.” Diarrhea can also be caused by:

• Reactions to medications (including some vitamins, minerals, and herbs)
• Reactions to artificial sweeteners (such as sorbitol and mannitol)
• Consuming milk or dairy products if you are lactose-intolerant

Diarrhea that results in blood in the stool, accompanied by fever or abdominal pain, could be caused by intestinal disorders, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or Crohn disease, and requires a doctor’s care.

What to Expect at Your Doctor’s Office

Your doctor will ask questions about your symptoms. Your doctor will also check to see if you are dehydrated, and may feel your abdomen to see if it is tender, and listen to your abdomen with a stethoscope. In some cases, you may need a blood test or you may need to provide a stool sample to check for an infection.

Treatment Options

Drug Therapies

In many cases, diarrhea will go away on its own. However, in severe cases your doctor may prescribe diphenoxylate and atropine (Lomotil). Your doctor also may prescribe antibiotics if the diarrhea is due to a bacterial infection.

Over-the-Counter

Since diarrhea is your body’s way of getting rid of toxins, it is best to let it run its course. However, you may use over-the-counter antidiarrheal remedies for convenience, including:

• Attapulgite (Kaopectate)
• Loperamide (Imodium)
• Bismuth sub-salicylate (Pepto-Bismol)

DO NOT take bismuth sub-salicylate with the herbs meadowsweet (Spirea ulmaria), white willow (Salix alba), or wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens).

Complementary and Alternative Therapies

Work with your doctor to find remedies that are right for you. If you are pregnant, or thinking of becoming pregnant, DO NOT use any complementary and alternative therapies (CAM) therapies unless directed to do so by your doctor.

Nutrition and Supplements

• Electrolytes. Correcting dehydration is critical, especially among children. Oral rehydration solutions containing sugar and electrolytes are important in managing children with dehydration from diarrheal illness.
• Rice or barley water, fresh vegetable juices (especially carrot and celery), miso broth, or other clear broths help restore proper fluid and electrolyte balance. Make rice and barley water using 1 cup of raw grain to 1 quart of boiling water. Steep for 20 minutes. Strain and drink throughout the day.
• Probiotics.Lactobacillus GG, acidophilus, or bifidobacteria, taken as powder or in capsules. Help maintain the “good” bacteria in your intestines. They may help alleviate diarrhea, although scientific evidence is mixed. Active culture yogurt containing these probiotics may help prevent diarrhea. People who are severely immunocompromised, or on immune-suppressive drugs, should speak with their doctor before taking probiotics.
• A live yeast, Saccharomyces boulardii, is often used in Europe to prevent diarrhea associated with taking antibiotics. May be taken with other probiotics. Rare but serious cases of infection in seriously ill patients have been reported, so do not take Saccraromyces boulardii without a doctor’s supervision.
• Bovine colostrum, the pre-milk fluid secreted by a cow’s mammary glands just after giving birth, may help treat some kinds of infectious diarrhea. Only use reliable colostrum products.
• Glutamine may help treat diarrhea caused by irritation of the intestinal lining. High doses of glutamine can potentially cause mania in susceptible individuals. Glutamine can interfere with certain medications, including some antiseizure medications and some chemotherapy agents. People with liver disease, or a history of manic episodes, should use glutamine only under the supervision of their physician.
• If you are lactose intolerant, take over-the-counter lactase enzyme supplements before consuming dairy products.
• Zinc may help improve immune and mucosal barrier functions.
• Stir-fried white pepper. In one study, treating children and infants under 2.5 years with stir-fried white pepper decreased the frequency of acute and persistent diarrhea.

Herbs

DO NOT use herbs to treat diarrhea without talking to your doctor first. Always talk to your doctor before treating diarrhea in an infant. If your diarrhea is caused by certain types of infections, herbal treatments could make it worse. The most common herbal remedies for diarrhea are described below. They can be used as teas unless otherwise noted. Make teas with 1 tsp. herb per cup of hot water. Steep covered 5 to 10 minutes for leaf or flowers, and 10 to 20 minutes for roots. Drink 2 to 4 cups per day. Always tell your doctor about any herbs you may be taking.

Astringent herbs:

• Astringent herbs, such as blackberry leaf (Rubus fruticosus) or raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus), help “dry up” the mucous membranes in the intestine. Make a tea with one heaping tsp. per cup. Drink 1/2 cup per hour. There is some controversy around using these teas during pregnancy.
• Carob powder (Ceratonia siliqua), which is rich in fiber, may be dissolved into a commercial hydrating electrolyte replenishing drink. DO NOT give carob to a child unless directed to do so by your physician.
• Extract of bilberry (Vaccinum myrtillus) also has astringent properties. DO NOT take bilberry if you take anticoagulants (blood thinners). Bilberry can also potentially interact with diabetes medications.
• Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatorium) is a traditional remedy for diarrhea. Agrimony can have a blood-thinning effect and can lower blood pressure. Speak with your doctor before taking agrimony if you are dealing with these health issues.

Inflammation reducers:

• Quercetin, a plant-based flavonoid, may help to reduce inflammation.
• Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is usually taken as a tea. Chamomile can interfere with hormonal medications and can cause reactions in people allergic to ragweed.
• Marshmallow root (Althea officinalis) can be taken as cold-water tea. Soak 2 tbs. root in 1 quart of water overnight. Strain. Drink throughout the day. Marshmallow can interfere with some medications taken by mouth, including lithium.
• Slippery elm powder (Ulmus fulva) or marshmallow root powder (Althaea officinalis) can be soothing to the intestines. Make a paste with the powder and a small amount of water. Gradually add in the rest of the water and then simmer down to 1 pint. Slippery elm has a folk reputation of promoting miscarriage. It can also interfere with some medications.

Infection fighters:

• Plants containing berberine may help treat infectious diarrhea. These include barberry (Berberis vulgaris ),goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), and Oregon grape (Berberis aquifolium). DO NOT take berberine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Check with your doctor first if you are taking any prescription medicines.

Bulk forming agent:

• Psyllium, a soluble fiber that comes from the husks of the seeds of a plant called Plantago ovata, may help treat diarrhea. It is a bulk-forming agent that soaks up water in the colon, helping to firm stool. Take psyllium with a large amount of water. People with inflammatory bowel disease should speak to their doctors before taking psyllium. Be aware that although doctors fiber agents like psyllium may help with diarrhea, they are more commonly used as a laxative to treat constipation. Speak to your doctor before using psyllium to treat diarrhea.

Homeopathy

Some evidence suggests that homeopathic treatment may help diarrhea. In one study, children with acute diarrhea who received an individualized homeopathic treatment for 5 days had diarrhea for significantly less time than children who had placebo. Before prescribing a remedy, homeopaths take into account a person’s constitutional type, includes your physical, emotional, and intellectual makeup. An experienced homeopath assesses all of these factors when determining the most appropriate remedy for a particular individual. Some of the most effective homeopathic remedies include:

• Arsenicum album. For foul-smelling diarrhea from food poisoning or traveler’s diarrhea with burning sensation in the abdomen and around the anus. This remedy is most appropriate for individuals who feel exhausted yet restless and whose symptoms tend to worsen in the cold and improve with warmth. Vomiting may also occur. You may also use arsenicum to prevent diarrhea when traveling.
• Chamomilla. For greenish, frothy stool that smells like rotten eggs. Used primarily for children, especially those who are irritable, argumentative, and difficult to console. Practitioners commonly recommend chamomile for colicky or teething infants.
• Calcarea carbonica. For children who fear being in the dark or alone, and who perspire heavily while sleeping. Stools may have a sour odor.
• Mercurius. For foul-smelling diarrhea that may have streaks of blood accompanied by a sensation of incomplete emptying. This remedy is most appropriate for people who tend to feel exhausted following bowel movements, experience extreme changes in body temperature, perspire heavily, and have a thirst for cold fluids.
• Podophyllum. For explosive, gushing, painless diarrhea that becomes worse after eating or drinking. Exhaustion often follows bowel movements. The individual for whom this remedy is appropriate may experience painful cramps in lower extremities. Practitioners may use podophyllum in infants for diarrhea experienced from teething.
• Sulphur. For irritable and weepy children. They may have a red ring around the anus and diarrhea with the odor of rotten eggs.
• Veratrum album. For profuse, watery diarrhea accompanied by stomach cramps, bloated abdomen, vomiting, exhaustion, and chills. The diarrhea is worsened by fruit, and the individual craves cold liquids.

Acupuncture

Although several studies in Traditional Chinese Medicine journals have reported success in treating childhood diarrhea, acupuncturists in the United States do not generally treat this condition in children. However, acupuncture may be used when conventional treatment has failed. In this case, acupuncturists look at both the nutritional value and the “energetic” qualities of food that might be affecting digestion.

Acupuncture is also combined with conventional medicine in treating diarrhea in adults.

Acupuncturists treat people with diarrhea based on an individualized assessment of the excesses and deficiencies of qi located in various meridians. In the case of diarrhea, a qi deficiency is usually detected in the spleen meridian. As a result, acupuncture treatments often focus on strengthening this meridian. Acupuncturists often use moxibustion (a technique in which the herb mugwort is burned over specific acupuncture points) because they believe it reaches deeper into the body than needling alone.

Following Up

If your diarrhea does not stop in 3 to 5 days, or if you become dehydrated, call your doctor.

Special Considerations

If you are pregnant, tell your doctor. Dehydration can trigger early labor. Also, diarrhea-related spasms may cause you to have contractions. DO NOT take goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), barberry (Berberis vulgaris), or high doses of vitamin A if you are pregnant.

Diarrhea can be serious, even fatal, for infants and elderly people because of dehydration and the loss of electrolytes.

Supporting Research

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Choi CH, Jo SY, Park HJ, et al. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicenter trial of saccharomyces boulardii in irritable bowel syndrome: effect on quality of life. J Clin Gastroenterol. 2011;45(8):679-83.

Corinaldesi R, Stanghellini V, Barbara G, et al. Clinical approach to diarrhea. Intern Emerg Med. 2012;7 Suppl 3:S255-62.

Dinleyici EC, Dalgic N, Guven S, et al. Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 shortens acute infectious diarrhea in a pediatric outpatient setting. J Pediatr (Rio J). 2015;91(4):392-6.

Eren M, Dinleyici EC, Vandenplas Y. Clinical efficacy comparison of Saccharomyces boulardii and yogurt fluid in acute non-bloody diarrhea in children: a randomized, controlled, open label study. Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2010;82(3):488-91.

Feizizadeh S, Salehi-Abargouei A, Akbari V. Efficacy and safety of Saccharomyces boulardii for acute diarrhea. Pediatrics. 2014;134(1):e176-91.

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How to treat diarrhea fast? Try these 5 home remedies for it

If there is one condition that can slow us down or interfere with our daily tasks, it is an unexpected case of diarrhea. Diarrhea can be caused by bacteria, virus, medications, foods or different digestive problems. It is often the body’s response to gastrointestinal system disturbances. When you have diarrhea, your bowel movements or stools become loose or watery, usually accompanied by a frequent and urgent need to go to the bathroom. Along with this, you could also feel additional symptoms, including bloating, fever, dehydration, disorientation and abdominal cramps. So, if you’re dealing with this condition and are wondering how to treat diarrhea, get ready to find out some solutions here.

Home remedies to treat diarrhea

Despite how common the problem is, a majority of us are easily embarrassed by it and refrain from discussing it openly and seeking help. However, we’re very certain you’ve heard a lot about how eating bananas can help you manage diarrhea. Well, this is one home remedy for diarrhea. We have listed the five most effective home remedies to halt this issue.

To treat diarrhea, establishing balance in your digestive system is essential. Health Shots spoke to Ayurveda expert Dr Mrunal Gole, to understand which home remedies can restore this balance in the digestive system. She explains, “In Ayurveda, this condition is known as atisara. This is a very prevalent health issue that can affect anyone, regardless of age. If ignored, this can even be painful and have serious consequences for your health.”

How to treat diarrhea?

Here are 5 effective home remedies to treat diarrhea, as suggested by Dr Mrunal Gole

1. Whey and buttermilk

Whey and buttermilk are regarded as effective remedies for diarrhea. Due to the abundance of healthy bacteria, they aid in settling the digestive system and easing discomfort. Whey is the curd’s liquid component, and buttermilk is made by churning curd after the fat has been taken off. Dr Gole advises taking any of these in moderate doses at frequent intervals.

Buttermilk can be a great solution to your digestive problem! Image courtesy: Shutterstock

2. Raw banana

Excellent astringent, raw bananas are frequently suggested as part of a diarrhea diet. Dr Gole says, “Divided raw bananas into three pieces and softened them in a pressure cooker with enough water to cover the bananas. Drain away any extra water. Peel off the pulp, and then thoroughly mash it. A small number of poppy seeds should be roasted in a skillet until they turn brown, then ground into a fine powder by grinding. Add a dash of salt and this powder to the banana mush.” This recipe’s astringent qualities prevent diarrhea. It is delicious and healthy.

Also read: Is your Keto diet causing diarrhea? Know how to deal with it

3. Pomegranate

Dry pomegranate peel is an effective treatment for diarrhea. Make a fine powder of pomegranate peel and eat 1 gram twice a day. You can also take it with buttermilk, to reduce the frequency of bowel movements.

4. Ginger and honey

Eat some honey with a pinch of finely grated ginger. Afterward, wait 10 minutes before drinking water. Ginger can cure diarrhea and other symptoms such as vomiting, and abdominal spasms.

Ginger can help in managing diarrhea! Image courtesy: Pixabay

5. Cumin water

Make roasted cumin powder and finely grind it. Combine this with a piece of candy sugar in a glass of water. Drinking this can help with diarrhea as well.

Ladies, diarrhea frequently gets better on its own in two to three days, but if it lasts longer than that, it might cause serious dehydration and require emergency medical intervention. So, in addition to using these cures, consult your doctor if it persists in your case.

News – Unim – laboratory of histology and immunohistochemistry

News – Unim – laboratory of histology and immunohistochemistry

Side effects of chemotherapy may include various gastrointestinal disturbances, many of which may be hazardous to health.

Constipation

If bowel movements are less frequent than usual, painful or difficult, it is called constipation.

Ways to deal with the problem.

• Eating whole grain breads and cereals, fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds.

The following are recommended foods for constipation.

• Bread and grain products: bran, whole or bran bread, brown or wild rice, whole grain breakfast cereal, whole grain pasta.
• Fruits and vegetables: dried fruits (dried apricots, dates, prunes, raisins), fresh fruits (apples, grapes, blueberries, blueberries), raw or cooked vegetables (broccoli, corn, peas, beans, spinach).
• Snacks: muesli (granola), nuts, popcorn, seeds (sunflower, pumpkin).

Drink more water.

• Most people need to drink up to 2 liters of fluid per day. Pure non-carbonated water is best suited for this purpose, and fruit (for example, plum) and vegetable juices also do a good job.

Find time and energy for daily physical activity.

• Walk or cycle for 15-30 minutes a day. Ask your doctor which types of exercise are right for you.

If constipation lasts longer than two days, tell your doctor. Diarrhea.

Ways to deal with the problem.

• Eat small, frequent, divided meals 5-6 times a day instead of 3 large meals. These portions are easier to digest.

The following foods are recommended for diarrhoea:

Soups: clear chicken, vegetable or beef broths.

Beverages: unflavored sparkling water, cranberry and grape juice, rehydration salt drinks, decaffeinated tea, pure still water.

Main dishes and snacks: applesauce, bananas, dry biscuits (cracker), rice water, eggs, jelly, chicken or turkey meat and fish – baked or fried without skin, noodles, oatmeal (in water), peanut butter, boiled peeled potatoes, white rice, toasted white bread and a long loaf.

Most canned and boiled (baked, steamed) fruits and vegetables without skins and seeds are normally digested.

In case of severe diarrhea, the so-called BRAT diet helps a lot: bananas, rice (white), applesauce, dried white bread (toast).

Drink plenty of fluids – this will not stop the diarrhea, but will allow you to replenish fluids lost from the body. The normal amount of liquid is 1.5-2 liters of water per day. Losses can also be replenished with clear broth or special saline solutions for rehydration.

The following foods should be avoided for diarrhea:

• Milk and dairy products. If it’s hard to give up milk, you can try lactose-free dairy products.
• Spicy, fatty and fried foods.
• Foods that provoke excessive gas formation (legumes, broccoli, cabbage).
• Foods rich in fiber (whole grain bread, whole grain muesli, bran).
• Raw vegetables and fruits (most canned vegetables are much easier to digest).
• Some drinks may aggravate diarrhea: alcoholic drinks (beer, wine, etc.), drinks containing caffeine (cola, coffee, black tea).

Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine for diarrhea!

Personal hygiene is very important in case of diarrhea. Use warm water and baby wipes after every bowel movement. The area of ​​the anus and perineum should always be dry and clean, otherwise it can become the entrance gate of infection, as well as a source of bleeding and pain.

Symptoms that require immediate medical attention:

• Dizziness;
• Temperature increase up to 38 ⁰ C and above;
• Diarrhea and abdominal cramps lasting longer than a day;
• Pain or bleeding in the anus.

Questions you might want to ask your doctor:

What problems should I report to you?

What medicines can I take to relieve constipation or diarrhea?

How much fluid should I drink daily?

Can you recommend a dietitian or nutritionist to help me make a list of foods I should eat and avoid?

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Diarrhea with dysbacteriosis: how to get rid of an unpleasant symptom?

Diarrhea is a constant companion of dysbacteriosis. As a rule, it occurs due to the inability of the affected intestine to absorb nutrients. Food is poorly digested and absorbed. Each next section of the gastrointestinal tract experiences an additional load, since the previous one has not fully completed its work. Because of this, the absorption of fluid in the large intestine is disturbed, it occurs quickly and frequently emptying, or diarrhea.

Diarrhea in dysbacteriosis has a number of characteristic features:

• diarrhea is not always accompanied by abdominal pain and discomfort,
• on average, a person visits the toilet 4-6 times a day, and in especially severe cases more often,
• the stool is not quite liquid, as a rule, it is just unformed, mushy,
• stools often have a strong unpleasant odor resulting from fermentation and putrefaction processes,
• in the absence of proper treatment, diarrhea may not go away for several weeks or even months, while the patient’s condition gradually worsens due to progressive dehydration,
• episodes of diarrhea may be followed by intermittent constipation.

In some patients, diarrhea due to intestinal dysbiosis resolves without treatment in just a few days. This is due to the fact that the species composition of microflora is constantly changing.

Some patients with dysbacteriosis are not worried about diarrhea, but constipation. They are much less common and more characteristic of elderly patients, in whom, in violation of the intestinal microflora, there is a deterioration in motor skills. As a result, food moves more slowly through the gastrointestinal tract, water is completely absorbed from the feces.

Diarrhea with dysbacteriosis does not require special treatment. It will pass by itself when the intestinal microflora is normalized. The modern probiotic BAK-SET forte will help restore the disturbed balance.

The drug contains 14 types of live probiotic bacteria at once, reinforcing and complementing each other’s action. The course intake of the complex helps to restore the microbial balance, get rid of diarrhea and other symptoms that occur during dysbacteriosis. Thanks to the advanced microencapsulated production technology, the bacteria that make up the probiotic retain their viability and activity throughout the entire shelf life. The drug does not need to be stored in the refrigerator, it is convenient to take it with you.