What are the quickest ways to stop diarrhea. How can you prevent future bouts of diarrhea. What causes diarrhea and how can it be treated effectively. Learn about fast-acting remedies, underlying causes, and prevention strategies for diarrhea.

Fast-Acting Remedies to Stop Diarrhea

When diarrhea strikes, finding quick relief becomes a priority. Here are some effective methods to stop diarrhea fast:

1. Over-the-Counter Medications

Anti-diarrheal medications can provide rapid relief from loose stools. Two popular options are:

• Imodium (loperamide): This medication works by slowing down fluid movement through the intestines, quickly restoring normal bowel function.
• Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate): It helps eliminate diarrhea-causing bacteria in the intestines.

How quickly do these medications work? Many people experience relief after the first dose, making them ideal for situations where you can’t stay close to a bathroom.

2. Rice Water

Rice water is a simple yet effective home remedy for diarrhea. To prepare it:

1. Boil 1 cup of rice in 2 cups of water for about 10 minutes.
2. Strain the rice and keep the cloudy water.
3. Drink the rice water.

Why is rice water effective? It has a binding effect in the digestive tract, leading to firmer, bulkier stools. Additionally, it helps prevent dehydration by providing fluids to the body.

3. Probiotics

Probiotic supplements or foods can help restore balance to your gut bacteria, potentially stopping diarrhea. Some yogurt brands contain probiotics that can be beneficial.

How do probiotics work against diarrhea? They increase the level of good bacteria in your gut, promoting normal bowel function and potentially shortening the duration of diarrhea.

4. BRAT Diet

The BRAT diet consists of Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast. These foods are effective due to their bland nature and starchy, low-fiber composition.

Why does the BRAT diet help with diarrhea? These foods have a binding effect in the digestive tract, making stools bulkier. Being bland, they’re less likely to irritate your stomach or worsen diarrhea.

Understanding the Causes of Diarrhea

To effectively prevent and treat diarrhea, it’s crucial to understand its common causes:

1. Stomach Viruses

Viral gastroenteritis, commonly known as stomach flu, is a frequent cause of diarrhea. It’s often accompanied by symptoms such as:

• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Low-grade fever

What viruses typically cause stomach flu? Norovirus and rotavirus are common culprits. These can be contracted through contaminated food or water, or by sharing personal items with an infected person.

2. Medications

Certain medications can trigger diarrhea as a side effect. These may include:

• Antibiotics
• Pain relievers
• Cancer-fighting drugs

Why do some medications cause diarrhea? In many cases, it’s due to the medication’s effect on the gut microbiome or the digestive system’s normal functioning.

3. Foodborne Illness

Food poisoning is another common cause of diarrhea. It occurs when you consume food contaminated with bacteria, parasites, or toxins.

What are some bacteria that commonly cause food poisoning? Some examples include:

• Salmonella
• E. coli
• Listeria monocytogenes
• Clostridium botulinum (botulism)

4. Food Allergies or Sensitivities

Certain food allergies or sensitivities can trigger diarrhea. Common culprits include:

• Lactose intolerance: Consuming dairy products like milk, cheese, ice cream, or yogurt can cause diarrhea in lactose-intolerant individuals.
• Gluten sensitivity: Foods containing gluten (wheat, pasta, rye) may trigger diarrhea in sensitive individuals.

How can you identify if a food allergy or sensitivity is causing your diarrhea? Keeping a food diary and noting any symptoms after eating certain foods can help pinpoint the cause.

5. Artificial Sweeteners

While less commonly known, artificial sweeteners can cause diarrhea in sensitive individuals. These sweeteners are often found in:

• Diet drinks
• Sugar-free products
• Chewing gum
• Some candies

Why do artificial sweeteners cause diarrhea in some people? These substances can have a laxative effect or disrupt the balance of gut bacteria in sensitive individuals.

Digestive Disorders and Diarrhea

Chronic or recurrent diarrhea can be a symptom of underlying digestive disorders. Some conditions associated with frequent bouts of loose stools include:

• Crohn’s disease
• Ulcerative colitis
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

How does IBS differ from other digestive disorders in terms of diarrhea? IBS can cause alternating bouts of diarrhea and constipation, while conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis typically cause chronic diarrhea.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Diarrhea

While most cases of diarrhea resolve on their own within a few days, some situations warrant medical attention:

• Diarrhea lasting more than 3 days
• Signs of dehydration (extreme thirst, dry mouth, little or no urination, severe weakness, dizziness)
• Severe abdominal or rectal pain
• Bloody or black stools
• Fever above 102°F (39°C)

What will a doctor typically do to diagnose the cause of persistent diarrhea? They may perform a physical exam, ask about your medical history and recent activities, and possibly order stool tests or blood work to identify the underlying cause.

Prevention Strategies for Diarrhea

Preventing diarrhea often involves good hygiene practices and careful food handling. Here are some effective prevention strategies:

1. Hand Hygiene

Proper hand washing is crucial in preventing the spread of diarrhea-causing pathogens. Wash your hands thoroughly:

• Before preparing or eating food
• After using the bathroom
• After changing diapers
• After handling pets

What’s the most effective hand washing technique? Use soap and water, scrub for at least 20 seconds, and dry with a clean towel or air dry.

2. Food Safety

Proper food handling and preparation can prevent foodborne illnesses that cause diarrhea:

• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly
• Cook meats to safe internal temperatures
• Avoid cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods
• Refrigerate perishable foods promptly

What’s the safe internal temperature for cooking meats? It varies by type of meat, but generally ranges from 145°F (63°C) for whole cuts of beef, pork, veal, and lamb to 165°F (74°C) for poultry.

3. Water Safety

When traveling, especially to areas with poor sanitation:

• Drink only bottled or boiled water
• Avoid ice cubes made from tap water
• Use bottled water for brushing teeth

How long should water be boiled to make it safe for drinking? Bring water to a rolling boil for at least one minute at sea level, or three minutes at high altitudes.

4. Vaccination

Some vaccines can protect against diarrhea-causing pathogens:

• Rotavirus vaccine for infants
• Typhoid vaccine for travelers to high-risk areas

When should the rotavirus vaccine be given? The CDC recommends that infants receive the first dose of rotavirus vaccine before 15 weeks of age, with the series completed by 8 months of age.

Dietary Considerations for Preventing and Managing Diarrhea

Your diet plays a crucial role in both preventing and managing diarrhea. Here are some dietary considerations:

1. Foods to Avoid

During a bout of diarrhea, it’s best to avoid:

• Fatty or greasy foods
• Spicy foods
• Dairy products (if lactose intolerant)
• Caffeine and alcohol
• High-fiber foods

Why should these foods be avoided during diarrhea? These foods can irritate the digestive system or stimulate bowel movements, potentially worsening diarrhea.

2. Foods to Eat

When recovering from diarrhea, focus on easy-to-digest foods:

• Bananas
• White rice
• Toast
• Applesauce
• Boiled potatoes
• Lean meats (chicken, turkey)

Why are these foods beneficial during diarrhea? They’re easy on the digestive system, provide necessary nutrients, and can help firm up stools.

3. Hydration

Staying hydrated is crucial when you have diarrhea. Good choices include:

• Water
• Clear broths
• Electrolyte solutions
• Diluted fruit juices (without added sugars)

How much fluid should you drink when you have diarrhea? Aim to drink at least 1 cup of fluid after each loose bowel movement to replace lost fluids.

The Role of Antibiotics in Treating Diarrhea

While many cases of diarrhea don’t require antibiotics, they may be necessary in certain situations:

1. When Antibiotics Are Needed

Antibiotics may be prescribed for diarrhea caused by:

• Bacterial infections
• Parasitic infections
• Traveler’s diarrhea in some cases

How do doctors determine if antibiotics are necessary? They may base this decision on the severity and duration of symptoms, travel history, and results of stool tests.

2. Limitations of Antibiotics

It’s important to note that antibiotics are not effective for viral diarrhea, which must run its course. Overuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance and disrupt the gut microbiome.

What are the potential side effects of antibiotic use for diarrhea? Some people may experience nausea, vomiting, or even antibiotic-associated diarrhea as a side effect of the medication.

3. Probiotics and Antibiotics

When antibiotics are necessary, taking probiotics concurrently may help prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea and maintain gut health.

What types of probiotics are most effective when taking antibiotics? Saccharomyces boulardii and certain strains of Lactobacillus have shown promise in preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

Long-Term Management of Chronic Diarrhea

For individuals with chronic diarrhea due to underlying conditions, long-term management strategies are crucial:

1. Dietary Modifications

Depending on the underlying cause, dietary changes may include:

• Low FODMAP diet for IBS
• Gluten-free diet for celiac disease
• Lactose-free diet for lactose intolerance

How effective are dietary modifications in managing chronic diarrhea? Many people find significant symptom relief with appropriate dietary changes, though the effectiveness can vary depending on the individual and the underlying condition.

2. Stress Management

Stress can exacerbate symptoms of conditions like IBS. Stress-reduction techniques may include:

• Meditation
• Yoga
• Regular exercise
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy

How does stress affect diarrhea? Stress can alter gut motility and sensitivity, potentially triggering or worsening diarrhea in susceptible individuals.

3. Medications

Long-term medications may be necessary for some conditions. These might include:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs for inflammatory bowel diseases
• Antispasmodics for IBS
• Bile acid binders for bile acid malabsorption

What factors do doctors consider when prescribing long-term medications for chronic diarrhea? They typically weigh the potential benefits against possible side effects, consider the specific underlying condition, and may try different medications to find the most effective option with the least side effects.

4. Regular Medical Follow-ups

Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are important for managing chronic diarrhea. These visits allow for:

• Monitoring of the condition
• Adjustment of treatment plans as needed
• Screening for potential complications

How often should someone with chronic diarrhea see their doctor? The frequency of check-ups can vary depending on the underlying condition and its severity, but typically range from every few months to annually.

Plus Causes and Prevention Tips

Treatment to get rid of diarrhea fast can depend on the cause but typically involves taking anti-diarrheal medications or antibiotics. Certain food and drinks may also help you manage your symptoms.

Diarrhea, or watery stools, can be embarrassing and strike at the worst times, such as during a vacation or special event.

But while diarrhea often improves on its own within two to three days, a few remedies can help promote firmer stools faster.

Keep reading to learn about five fast-acting methods, along with what typically causes diarrhea and prevention tips.

Some people see diarrhea as nothing more than a mild nuisance and let it run its course, especially since some bouts lasts less than 24 hours.

You might stay close to home or a bathroom, and load up on fluids and electrolytes to prevent dehydration.

But what if you can’t stay home?

In this case, taking an anti-diarrheal medication may reduce or completely eliminate loose stools after the first dose. Look for over-the-counter products like Imodium or Pepto-Bismol, which have the ingredients loperamide and bismuth subsalicylate, respectively.

The active ingredient in Imodium works swiftly because it slows the movement of fluid through the intestines. This can quickly restore normal bowel function. Pepto-Bismol, on the other hand, helps kill diarrhea-causing bacteria in your intestines.

Rice water is another fast, effective remedy for diarrhea. Boil 1 cup of rice and 2 cups of water for about 10 minutes, or until the water becomes cloudy.

Strain the rice and preserve the water for consumption. Rice water not only provides your body with fluid to prevent dehydration, it can also reduce the duration of diarrhea. Rice water has a binding effect in the digestive tract, resulting in firmer, bulkier stools.

Taking a probiotic supplement or eating probiotic foods like some brands of yogurt may also stop diarrhea.

Sometimes, diarrhea results from an imbalance of bacteria in the gut. Probiotics help restore balance by providing a higher level of good bacteria. This can promote normal bowel function and shorten the duration of diarrhea.

Diarrhea from bacteria or a parasite may need an antibiotic. In this case, diarrhea can occur after coming in contact with contaminated food or water, often while traveling.

Keep in mind that antibiotics are ineffective when viral infections cause diarrhea. This type of diarrhea must run its course.

A diet known as BRAT may also quickly relieve diarrhea.

BRAT stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. This diet is effective due to the bland nature of these foods, and the fact that they’re starchy, low-fiber foods.

These foods have a binding effect in the digestive tract to make stools bulkier. And since they’re bland, they’re less likely to irritate your stomach or worsen diarrhea.

Along with these items, you could also eat (similarly bland) saltine crackers, clear broth, and potatoes.

Understanding the cause of diarrhea can help you avoid future bouts. Common causes include:

Stomach virus

Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu) is one cause of diarrhea. Along with watery stools, you may have:

• stomach pain
• nausea
• vomiting
• low-grade fever

These viruses include norovirus and rotavirus, which can develop after eating or drinking contaminated food, or sharing personal items with an infected person.

Medication

Sensitivity to certain medications can also trigger bouts of diarrhea. This may happen after taking antibiotics, pain relievers, or cancer-fighting drugs.

Foodborne illness

Also called food poisoning, diarrhea can develop if you eat food contaminated by bacteria, parasites, or toxins. Food-borne illnesses can include those caused by the following bacteria:

• Salmonella
• E. coli
• Listeria monocytogenes
• Clostridium botulinum (botulism)

Food allergy or sensitivity

If you’re lactose intolerant, diarrhea may develop after eating dairy products. These include milk, cheese, ice cream, and yogurt.

Having a food allergy or sensitivity may also trigger diarrhea. For example, you may have diarrhea after eating foods containing gluten — wheat, pasta, or rye.

Artificial sweeteners

This is a lesser known cause of diarrhea. But if you’re sensitive to artificial sweeteners, you may have a bout of diarrhea after eating foods or drinks containing these sweeteners. Artificial sweeteners are found in diet drinks, sugar-free products, chewing gum, and even some candy.

Digestive problems

Diarrhea is sometimes a symptom of digestive disorders. You might have frequent bouts of loose stools if you’re diagnosed with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Also, irritable bowel syndrome can cause alternating bouts of diarrhea and constipation.

Diarrhea caused by a virus or bacterial infection is contagious. You can protect yourself by:

• washing your hands frequently
• avoiding sick people
• disinfecting commonly touched surfaces
• not sharing personal items

If you have diarrhea after starting a new medication, ask your doctor about an alternative drug or possibly lowering your dosage.

You can also protect yourself by thoroughly cooking food and washing fruits and vegetables before preparing. Also, make sure you know the proper way to wash your hands.

Use warm, soapy water and wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. If water isn’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

To identify possible food allergies or sensitivities, keep a food journal and write down everything you eat for a few weeks. Make a note of days that you have diarrhea.

Keeping a food journal can help determine whether you have a lactose intolerance or a gluten sensitivity. You can then try an elimination diet. Remove suspected problem foods from your diet and see if your symptoms improve.

For a digestive disorder, talk to your doctor if you feel that your current therapy isn’t working. You may need to adjust your medication.

See a doctor for diarrhea that lasts longer than three days, or if you show signs of dehydration. This can include extreme thirst, decreased urination, and dizziness.

You should also see a doctor if you have:

• a fever above 102°F (38.9°C)
• bloody or black stools
• abdominal pain

Diarrhea can come and go within 24 hours. Or it can last for days and disrupt your plans. But between medication, low-fiber foods, and avoiding foods that irritate your digestive system — such as dairy or artificial sweeteners — you can quickly relieve symptoms and enjoy diarrhea-free days.

How to Stop Diarrhea Fast: 8 Effective Home Remedies

Do you want to know how to stop diarrhea fast? Diarrhea can show up as an uninvited guest and can destroy your day. It is a common condition that can lead to watery stools, dehydration, abdominal pain, and cramps. It can also cause blood in the stools or may worsen at times. Mild diarrhea usually lasts for a few days. It can also extend to weeks if there is an underlying issue that may be causing your diarrhea, such as infection or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

The usual causes of diarrhea are viral or bacterial infection, food poisoning, contaminated water, or antibiotic use. Many Pakistanis experience diarrhea from eating unhygienic food from restaurants or street food. Antibiotic use may also lead to an upset stomach too. Luckily, diarrhea is treatable through simple home remedies. Keep reading to know more about them.

Table of Contents

How to Stop Diarrhea Fast

Following is a list of home remedies that can help get rid of diarrhea:

1. Change your diet

Certain dietary changes can help ease the symptoms of diarrhea. Few foods can improve your condition, while others may worsen it. Try a BRAT diet when you have diarrhea. BRAT diet stands for

• B – Bananas
• R – Rice
• A – Applesauce
• T – White bread

These foods are bland and easily digestible. It can help you recover from diarrhea as it is low in fiber and may help bulk up your stool. Studies suggest that other foods with lower fiber or high potassium can also soothe your symptoms, including apple juice, broth, crackers, and boiled potatoes.

It is also crucial to your recovery to avoid foods that can trigger diarrhea. Spicy and oily foods can worsen diarrhea. Carbonated beverages and caffeine can worsen diarrhea, so limit their intake.

2. Take probiotics

Foods with probiotics, such as yogurt, kimchi, miso, pickles, etc., can help enhance gut health and fasten your recovery. Probiotics are live microorganisms that can increase good bacteria in your gut and boost gut health. It can help fight digestive infections and make you recover faster.

You can also take probiotics in the form of supplements and consult a doctor before deciding which supplements to take. Poor gut health can also cause infections that lead to diarrhea, so probiotics improve gut health and help combat diarrhea.

3. Try over-the-counter (OTC) drugs

OTC drugs can help treat acute diarrhea. Anti-diarrheal medicines, such as Pepto-Bismol and Imodium, are available in the market.

Talk to your doctor before taking any medication for chronic diarrhea, as it may occur due to an underlying disease. A doctor may suggest antibiotics if the diarrhea is severe and caused by an infection. Consult a doctor before giving any medicine to an infant or toddler.

4. Rehydrate yourself

Diarrhea can rapidly deplete water out of your body, which may lead to dehydration. It may also decrease your electrolytes, such as sodium and chloride, which can lower your energy. Drink plenty of fluids when you are experiencing diarrhea to replace the fluid deficit in your body.

Sports drinks and fruit juices can also provide the necessary electrolytes for recovery. Avoid drinks that can irritate your stomach, such as caffeinated drinks, hot drinks, alcohol, and carbonated beverages. You can also make a DIY oral hydration solution at home.

To make the solution add six teaspoons of sugar and half a teaspoon of salt in one-liter water. It can help balance the electrolytes in your body and support recovery from diarrhea.

5. Use ginger

Ginger is a widely available ingredient, and a household essential. Ginger can be effective in treating diarrhea because it contains phytochemicals that may be beneficial for your body.

It can lessen the urge to pass a bowel movement and can relieve pain that occurs due to diarrhea. It may also help treat other digestive problems too.

You can take ginger tea or ginger ale, which can relieve diarrhea. To prepare ginger tea, add one of two teaspoons of grated or chopped ginger into boiling water. You can add lemon and honey to make it taste better.

6.  Avoid exercising

Diarrhea can eliminate water from your body quickly. Doing strenuous exercises leads to sweating which can also cause dehydration. Exercising can fasten the speed of hydration and exacerbate diarrhea symptoms. It is essential to rest to recover from diarrhea.

Taking proper rest can support your recovery and get you up and running in no time. Tiring your body may have devastating effects on your body, as your body already lacks energy.

7. Drink herbal tea

Several kinds of herbal teas can be effective in treating diarrhea. Using herbal teas may help with diarrhea, such as chamomile, fennel, and peppermint tea. Chamomile tea has a relaxing effect on your stomach muscles and may help cure diarrhea.

Fennel tea is also known to be an effective remedy for curing diarrhea. Peppermint tea can also soothe your stomach muscles and provide relief from diarrhea. Drink these teas in moderation, as drinking too much can make diarrhea worse.

8. Take proper rest

Your body requires rest and not getting enough rest can hinder your recovery. Take time off from work or school and stay at home for at least forty-eight hours after the diarrhea starts. Take naps often and sleep, as sleeping can help fight infections and speed up your recovery

Preventing diarrhea

Diarrhea may be unavoidable at times, but taking steps to prevent it can reduce your chances of getting it. Here are some ways that may aid in preventing diarrhea:

1. Practice good hygiene

Dirty hands on your face or mouth can transmit infections. Make it a daily practice to wash your hands after they come in contact with dirt or germs. Make it a habit to wash your hands before and after touching raw food.  Wash your hands for at least twenty seconds to make them germ-free.

2. Store food properly

Pay attention to how you store your food. Store foods at their required temperatures, or they may rot. Ensure that you keep raw and cooked food separately. Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and vegetables. Cook food thoroughly, as uncooked food can lead to diarrhea from food poisoning.

3. Get vaccinated

Vaccines are available for rotavirus and cholera, infections that can cause diarrhea. The cholera vaccine is available for adults only. The rotavirus vaccine is given in the early months to prevent rotavirus.

4. Take precautions when traveling

When traveling to another country, take the necessary precautions to prevent diarrhea, especially in underdeveloped or developing countries. Below-par hygiene conditions in these countries can cause stomach issues. Be careful of what you eat. Avoid eating from street vendors. Drink bottled water, avoid dairy products, and eat thoroughly cooked food.  Pack your medicine just in case you get sick.

5. Strengthen immunity

A strong immune system can save you from many illnesses, including diarrhea. Breastfeeding babies can boost their immunity. Adults should take supplements or incorporate immunity-enhancing foods in their diet. Lowering stress levels, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising can boost your immunity and prevent diarrhea.

Complications of diarrhea

In most cases, diarrhea may resolve itself in a few days, but it can lead to complications too. Diarrhea can lead to severe dehydration, which can be lethal. Drinking electrolytes and fluids are critical in cases of diarrhea. If dehydration worsens, a doctor may suggest fluid replacement therapy.

It is done by injecting intravenous (IV) fluid into the body to replace the loss of electrolytes. You should consult a doctor if you have a fever or other signs that may signal that your condition is worsening.

Conclusion

Diarrhea is a common issue in Pakistan, among other digestive health issues. It is not risky for your health, and simple home remedies can cure them. Increasing your intake of fluids and electrolytes is critical to your recovery. Try OTC medicines, ginger, and herbal teas for relief from diarrhea.

There is no definitive way to prevent diarrhea, but taking precautions can help keep diarrhea away. Keeping your hands free of germs and good hygiene habits can prevent diarrhea. Handling food with care and storing it at the correct temperatures can also help you stay away from diarrhea. Diarrhea is usual in kids and can be unsafe for them.

Breastfeeding for at least six months can improve their immunity and prevent diarrhea. Vaccinations can also help in fending off diarrhea in children. Diarrhea can be critical if it does not go away after a few days. Severe dehydration from diarrhea can also be a serious health issue that may require medical attention.

Everyone gets diarrhea at some point in their life. It may not be life-threatening at most times, but you should not ignore it. If diarrhea persists even after trying the remedies or shows up with other symptoms, you should get in touch with your healthcare practitioner.

Disclaimer: The contents of this article are intended to raise awareness about common health issues and should not be viewed as sound medical advice for your specific condition. You should always consult with a licensed medical practitioner prior to following any suggestions outlined in this article or adopting any treatment protocol based on the contents of this article.

How to stop diarrhea – diagnosis and stages of diarrhea treatment

Author, editor and medical expert – Zavgorodnyaya Ekaterina Aleksandrovna.

Editor and medical expert – Harutyunyan Mariam Harutyunovna.

Number of views: 60,739

Date last updated: 05/31/2023

Average read time: 6 minutes

Rarely you can meet a person who has never suffered from diarrhea (diarrhea). It can occur at any age. This uncomfortable condition significantly worsens the quality of life and sometimes even requires inpatient treatment due to the development of dangerous complications. With severe or persistent diarrhea, you should consult a doctor who will select the necessary treatment to stop the diarrhea.

Should diarrhea always be stopped?

Diarrhea should be treated in any case, even if it is caused by the use of laxatives or laxative products, overeating or dietary errors.

In some situations, you need to see a doctor immediately. Medical assistance will be required if fever, intoxication or dehydration has appeared and is growing (especially in children and the elderly), if blood, pus or copious mucus is found in the stool, with severe pain in the abdomen, if diarrhea has not stopped within 2 days.

What the doctor should do when diagnosing diarrhea

When diagnosing diarrhea, the doctor solves several problems. It is important to find out the etiology, since diarrhea can be stopped by eliminating its causes.

Set the duration

Be sure to determine the nature of the disorder, this is important for further examination tactics. The fact is that in acute diarrhea, it is necessary first of all to exclude an infectious cause, while in the case of a chronic process, most likely, non-infectious causes should be sought.

To identify the presence and severity of violations

The doctor must identify and evaluate the severity of all possible violations that require the application of urgent measures. This can be dehydration, intoxication, etc.

Exclude acute surgical diseases in the diagnosis

An important task in diagnosing the causes of intestinal disorders is to exclude acute surgical pathology. Diarrhea syndrome can accompany acute inflammatory processes of the abdominal cavity, volvulus and intussusception of the intestine, exacerbation of chronic diseases, ulcerative necrotic or tumor lesions of different parts of the digestive system.

What are the steps in the treatment of diarrhea

It is not always possible to quickly and reliably determine the cause of the stool disorder. Often, therapy has to be started before the final results of various examinations are obtained, especially in the case of a severe course of the process and the development of complications. Therefore, the treatment of any type of diarrhea consists of several mandatory steps.

Symptomatic treatment

This is the name of the treatment to eliminate the main manifestations of the disease. It does not eliminate the underlying cause of the disturbances that have arisen, but it improves the patient’s well-being and can stop the development of life-threatening conditions. First of all, rehydration is carried out to combat dehydration. The second task is to reduce the impact of toxins with the help of adsorbents. Additionally, astringents and enveloping agents are used for diarrhea. It is also important to influence intestinal motility, secretion and concomitant bloating. Symptomatic therapy is carried out against the background of a diet.

Selection of etiotropic therapy

According to modern views, the appointment of antimicrobial drugs is made only after the cause of diarrhea has been established. At the same time, the sensitivity of isolated pathogens to drugs is taken into account, and the treatment carried out is monitored. If the intestinal disorder is of a non-infectious nature, the doctor prescribes drugs of various groups to treat the underlying disease.

Rehabilitative and preventive therapy

After relief of the main symptoms of diarrhea, it is necessary to restore the disturbed intestinal microflora, to eliminate concomitant changes in the functioning of various parts of the gastrointestinal tract. Sometimes it is necessary to prescribe drugs with a sedative or antidepressant effect to normalize the functioning of the nervous system. If diarrhea was caused by endocrine pathology or diseases of internal organs, they must be compensated. In case of poisoning and intoxication, measures are taken to prevent a repeated episode of exposure to the factor.

Application IMODIUM

^® Express

IMODIUM ^® Express affects intestinal motility and anal sphincter tone, prolongs the passage of feces through the large intestine, reduces the secretion of water and ions, and also promotes fluid absorption. These effects are due to its effect on opiate and non-opiate receptors, a decrease in the production of prostaglandins and neurotransmitters, and blockade of carrier peptides in the intestinal wall. This versatile action helps to stop diarrhea and reduce the severity of associated symptoms. But in case of intoxication before using IMODIUM ^® Express must be consulted with a doctor. After all, a decrease in the rate of movement of intestinal contents can contribute to increased absorption of toxins and lead to undesirable consequences.

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.”

How to stop diarrhea

14.09.2021

It has happened to all of us that we have diarrhea at least once in our lives. The reasons may be different. From “spring diarrhea – stomach flu” caused by rotavirus, which usually occurs in early March, to diarrhea caused by various pathogens such as bacteria and fungi. A common question for all people suffering from diarrhea: how to stop? And how to do it now?

Here are all the ways to stop diarrhea:

1. Do not eat anything that contains sugar and milk fat. Give up milk, yogurt and all dairy products for a few days.

2. Eat whole grain dry biscuits, crackers, drink plenty of fluids and eat rice.

3. In addition, diet from diarrhea includes the following:

• prepare low-fat soup. Soup from a bag is recommended, which will help you stay hydrated;
• cook rice only with chicken, just add vegeta or salt;
• an apple will help you fight diarrhea, but not in the way we usually eat it. Grate and let stand for about an hour. It will change color, but don’t let that discourage you. Eat it and you will see how this healthy fruit will help you calm your stomach ;
• water is an essential part of the treatment. Drink plenty of fluids in small portions. As for fruits, besides apples, bananas are also very effective;

4. Teas can be very effective for diarrhea , but only certain types.
Chamomile, mallow, quince tea, sea buckthorn tea, oak bark, rosehip tea, mint tea and blackberry tea will help you with their beneficial action, and diarrhea will stop .

In addition to tea, wild oregano oil is most effective against diarrhea . This oil is soaked in a sugar cube, and then this cube is eaten. It has a strong taste and smell, and if you haven’t tried it yet, it can cause nausea . Apply just a few drops to get started. Diarrhea will disappear quickly.

5. Coffee against diarrhea . We have known since ancient times that coffee is the fastest way of all medicines to stop diarrhea . However, this drink can be very tasteless as a medicine.

One teaspoon of ground coffee on an empty stomach, as soon as diarrhea starts , will be an excellent solution to stop it. It will be unpleasant.

Another variation of the same medicine with coffee is to squeeze a lemon into one teaspoon of coffee and mix the resulting mixture. This mixture should be eaten. The taste is bitter-sour, very strong and unpleasant. Don’t try to change this taste by adding sugar or water. Use whole grains, not instant coffee.