The 10 Best Natural Remedies for Diarrhea, According to a Doctor

Yogurt and other foods that pack probiotics may help get your gut back on track if you’re dealing with diarrhea.

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It’s that rumbling in your stomach, that need-to-find-a-bathroom-now feeling, that inevitable part of life that doesn’t make for polite conversation, but still needs to be discussed: diarrhea.

For most of us, diarrhea is only an occasional inconvenience. Still, when it happens, you want a solution ASAP. Here are some natural remedies for diarrhea that don’t require a trip to the pharmacy.

1. Eat Foods With Soluble Fiber

Unflavored oatmeal and apples are considered binding foods for diarrhea because they’re high in soluble fiber.

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There aren’t really foods that stop diarrhea, says Randy Meisner, MD, a gastroenterologist with Spectrum Health in Grand Rapids, Michigan, but certain foods can help clear it up.

While the BRAT diet (bread, rice, applesauce and toast) used to be the gold standard for diarrhea, it’s no longer recommended because it’s too restrictive and research shows it doesn’t help with diarrhea.

Instead, reach for foods with soluble fiber, which move more slowly through the digestive system, according to OncoLink. These are known as binding foods for diarrhea, because they help make stools more solid.

Per the Mayo Clinic, foods high in soluble fiber include:

• Oats
• Peas
• Beans
• Apples
• Citrus fruits
• Carrots
• Barley

Is Lemon Good for Diarrhea?

Lemons are high in soluble fiber, but they’re not very pleasant to eat. Instead, try citrus fruits like oranges or grapefruit (and keep in mind that fruit juices do not contain fiber).

Eating bland and easy-to-digest foods is a good way to stop diarrhea fast at home, especially when the condition is severe, according to OncoLink.

Skip heavy seasonings and sauces and opt for foods like the following:

• Lean proteins like chicken, fish and eggs
• Mashed potatoes
• Noodles
• Rice
• Smooth peanut butter
• Well-cooked vegetables

Tip

Eating five to six smaller meals throughout the day may be easier on your digestive system than eating three larger meals, per OncoLink.

3. Try Adding in Probiotic Foods

The probiotics in sauerkraut may help naturally stop diarrhea.

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Although Dr. Meisner notes there isn’t conclusive data on the effectiveness of probiotics for diarrhea, he says some patients benefit from probiotics — microorganisms that live in the GI tract and also occur in some foods — in cases of diarrhea caused by an acute infection.

An August 2017 ​American Family Physician​ study found that probiotics are highly effective for diarrhea caused by infection, antibiotic-associated diarrhea and even diarrhea from some gastrointestinal disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome.

Probiotics are highly individual, however, so you may have to do some trial-and-error to find what works for you, Dr. Meisner says.

Probiotic-rich foods include:

What About Apple Cider Vinegar for Diarrhea?

It’s not clear whether apple cider vinegar can be counted among the home remedies for diarrhea. Some research, including a February 2016 paper in ​Pharmacy Today​, notes that ACV might delay the emptying of the stomach, which sounds promising. But ACV is also very acidic, which could irritate the gut and lead to digestive problems for some people.

Wondering what to drink for diarrhea? Plain old water is your best bet.

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Hydrating won’t get rid of diarrhea, but it’s essential to help you avoid dehydration, which is a potentially serious consequence of diarrhea, even if the condition only lasts a few days, Dr. Meisner says.

The symptoms of dehydration can include dizziness, feeling lightheaded or weak, concentrated urine and decreased urination, confusion and thirst, according to the Mayo Clinic.

The best drink for diarrhea is water, and you may need to drink extra to stay hydrated if you are experiencing diarrhea, Dr. Meisner says. An electrolyte solution — such as Gatorade ($15 for 12, Amazon), Pedialyte ($19. 96 for 4, Amazon) or Amazon’s Basic Care Electrolyte Solution ($4.99, Amazon) — may also be helpful, but be careful: If they’re high in sugar, it could make your diarrhea worse.

Is Ginger Good for Diarrhea?

Ginger root can help alleviate nausea and vomiting, according to the Cleveland Clinic, which are symptoms that often accompany diarrhea. But research is mixed on whether ginger can help get rid of diarrhea. And keep in mind that many ginger ale drinks may be made with artificial flavorings rather than natural ginger.

5. Nix Artificial Sweeteners

Some foods can cause diarrhea or make it worse, Dr. Meisner says, and artificial sweeteners are high on that list.

Sugar substitutes — such as aspartame or Splenda — are often culprits behind diarrhea, Dr. Meisner says, because they can pull water into your gut.

These types of sweeteners are often found in the following foods, according to the Mayo Clinic:

• Soft drinks, such as diet soda
• Powdered drink mixes
• Sugar-free gums and candies
• Baked goods
• Canned foods
• Dairy products
• Jams and jellies
• Puddings

6.

Dial Back on Dairy if You’re Intolerant

When it comes to home remedies for diarrhea, what you don’t eat is just as important as what you do eat.

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Lactose, the sugar found in milk and other dairy products, can cause diarrhea for some people, Dr. Meisner says.

Having diarrhea after eating or drinking dairy products is a common sign of lactose intolerance, according to the FDA. It’s estimated that 30 to 50 million people in the U.S. have lactose intolerance, so it’s definitely something to consider if you notice your diarrhea is occurring after eating or drinking foods like:

• Cow’s milk
• Yogurt
• Butter
• Cheese
• Ice cream or frozen yogurt
• Sour cream

7. Forgo Fatty or Fried Foods

Dr. Meisner says eliminating some fatty foods may also help stop liquid diarrhea.

High-fat foods like fried chicken or potato chips can be tough for some people to digest, according to Harvard Health Publishing. When these foods aren’t broken down well, they go to the colon, where the fat is turned into fatty acids, causing the colon to secrete fluid — and voila, diarrhea.

According to the USDA, unhealthy high-fat foods to avoid include:

• Fast foods (such as those from Burger King, McDonald’s and Taco Bell)
• Fried foods like fried chicken
• Whipped cream
• Fatty meats, such as beef short ribs
• Fatty snack foods, such as potato and corn chips
• Processed meats, such as pepperoni, bacon and sausage
• Desserts, such as dulce de leche and chocolate cake
• Some salad dressings

Holding off on spicy foods like chili can help stop diarrhea fast at home.

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Foods made with hot peppers (think: hot sauce) contain a compound called capsaicin, which is responsible for that burning sensation in your mouth, according to a June 2016 paper in ​Molecules.​

Capsaicin can irritate your GI tract, causing digestion to speed up, which is why spicy food results in diarrhea for some people.

Tip

A specific food intolerance could be causing your diarrhea. Other symptoms of food intolerance include stomach pain or cramping, gas and bloating, per the Cleveland Clinic. Keeping a food journal can help you identify possible trigger foods and limit or avoid them going forward.

Caffeine speeds up digestion, according to Harvard Health Publishing. When waste gets pushed through too quickly, your digestive system doesn’t have a chance to absorb enough of the liquid, causing loose stools.

To treat watery diarrhea, cut back on foods and drinks that contain caffeine, including:

• Coffee
• Tea
• Soda
• Energy drinks
• Chocolate

It’s best to say no to alcohol when you’re trying to treat watery diarrhea.

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Drinking too much alcohol may cause diarrhea the next day, especially when it comes to beer and wine, according to the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders.

“Too much” is a relative term determined by your body, but keep in mind that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend sticking to one drink per day for those assigned female at birth and up to two drinks for those assigned male at birth.

Plus, alcohol is dehydrating, so even if it’s not the cause of your diarrhea, you’ll want to steer clear of it so you don’t make the dehydrating effects of diarrhea worse.

Make Sure It’s Actually Diarrhea

Dr. Meisner notes that if you’re having chronic or reoccurring diarrhea, it’s important to assess whether it could be fecal incontinence instead.

Diarrhea is defined as an increased amount of stool, but fecal incontinence is when you don’t have the ability to control your bowel movements, according to the Mayo Clinic. This often results in accidents or soiling of undergarments and is not necessarily increased quantity of stool.

The difference is important, Dr. Meisner says, because a doctor will need to assess the two conditions differently, so don’t be afraid to speak with your doctor if you are actually experiencing incidents of incontinence and not just diarrhea.

If your diarrhea has gone on for more than a month, it’s time to schedule a checkup.

“Chronic, reoccurring diarrhea can be indicative of a more severe illness,” Dr. Meisner says.

The Mayo Clinic also notes you should see a doctor for diarrhea accompanied by symptoms such as fever, severe pain or stools that appear bloody or black.

Home Remedies to Stop Diarrhea

Diarrhea is characterized by an increase in the liquidity and frequency of bowel movements. Diarrhea typically lasts for up to two days. The treatment for diarrhea involves liquid and ORS intake in order to prevent dehydration.

At-Home Treatment Measures for Diarrhea

Mild to moderate diarrhea can be managed at home with simple and easy remedies.

1. Use of probiotics

Probiotics are healthy bacteria that aid digestion and chiefly consist of lactic acid bacteria, which do not pose any adverse effects. Taking probiotics can provide quick relief from diarrhea.

Moreover, probiotics may help prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Therefore, identifying potential probiotic candidates and employing their use can help in preventing infectious diarrhea and reducing hospital stay. (1) However, the optimum dosage required for treatment has not been determined yet. (2)

Summary:

Probiotic formulations contain bacteria similar to those present in the gut and, therefore, may help in alleviating diarrheal symptoms. Seek medical help if your symptoms do not subside.

2. Consumption of green bananas

Traditionally, green bananas have been used for treating various digestive disorders. Studies showed that green bananas could be used for both clinical and at-home treatment of diarrhea. (3)(4)

More studies can help in understanding the role of green bananas in treating diarrhea and establishing its efficacy.

3. Intake of apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar possesses antibacterial properties that can help manage diarrhea caused by bacteria. However, this is an anecdotal remedy whose effects have not been established by clinical studies yet.

How to use: Dilute 1 teaspoon of ACV in a glass of water and consume twice a day until the condition resolves.

4. Use of turmeric

Turmeric possesses anti-inflammatory and antibacterial curcumin, which can aid in diarrhea treatment. It has been used as an anecdotal remedy for diarrhea for long. (5)

How to use: Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric in hot water or tea and consume. You can also include turmeric as a spice in your meals. Turmeric supplements should only be consumed upon consulting a doctor.

Caution: Excessive intake of turmeric can cause gastrointestinal distress such as pain, acidity, ulcers, abdominal contraction, and even thinning of the blood. Therefore, it is recommended to consult your doctor about the appropriate dosage.

5. Intake of oral rehydration solutions

Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are salt, water, and glucose mixtures that help rebalance the body’s sodium and water levels, thus enhancing digestive functions. (6)(7)

How to use: Mix ½ teaspoon of salt and 6 teaspoons of sugar in 1 L of water and consume.

6. Use of over-the-counter medications

Anti-diarrheal over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as loperamide and bismuth salicylate can help treat diarrhea. However, it is recommended to consult your doctor before using them as they have various side effects such as dizziness, constipation, and vomiting.

Caution: Avoid using OTCs for bacterial diarrhea or if you have an accompanying fever.

7. Zinc supplementation

Zinc supplementation can help prevent acute diarrhea and also help reduce the severity and duration of the episodes. (8)(9)

How to use: Consume zinc-containing foods such as oats, nuts, fortified cereals, yeast, beans, and oysters. Supplements should only be taken after consulting a doctor.

Self-Care Tips to Help in the Management of Diarrhea

The following changes in diet and eating habits may help in alleviating the symptoms of diarrhea:

1.

Increase your fluid intake

Consume 8–10 cups of fluids every day, including water, half-strength juice, broth, electrolyte replacement drinks, and chamomile or peppermint tea.

Infants with diarrhea should be given small amounts of water between feeds of formula or solid food, but only after consulting your pediatrician since water may not be advised depending on the infant’s age.

2. Modify your diet

The following dietary recommendations can aid treatment:

• Eat fiber-rich foods to help solidify your stool.
• Avoid high-fat, fried, or greasy foods.
• Avoid foods with high sugar content, such as chocolate milk, candy, regular soda, and undiluted fruit juice.
• Consume salty foods, such as soup and pretzels, and electrolyte-rich sports drinks.
• Eat foods rich in potassium, such as skinned potatoes, half-strength fruit juices, and bananas.
• Consumption of bland BRAT (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast) foods may help manage the condition at the onset. However, these foods lack nutrients such as fat and protein. Therefore, this diet should not be continued beyond a couple of days.
• Do not force-feed yourself.

Preventing Diarrhea

Taking the following steps toward maintaining hygiene and sanitation may help in the prevention of diarrhea:

1. Keep your hands clean

Wash your hands properly with warm water and soap for 30 seconds every time you use the bathroom, change diapers, or handle food to help avoid diarrhea-causing infections.

2. Get vaccinated

Timely vaccination against the rotavirus is vital for children. If you plan to travel out of the country, ask your doctor if hepatitis A or typhoid vaccines are needed, depending on where you are traveling.

3. Consume clean food

Store, clean, and cook food properly to avoid food poisoning or other foodborne illnesses. Make sure that you eat properly cooked food, especially meat. The heat from the cooking process helps eliminate potential contaminants, germs, or pathogens. Moreover, avoid consuming contaminated food or water.

4. Make dietary changes

Reduce your intake of sweet, spicy, or fatty foods. Instead, eat probiotic foods, such as yogurt, and starchy foods, such as bread, rice, and banana. Do not consume alcohol.

For the first 6 months to 1 year, feed your child with breast milk only, and avoid giving formula if possible. Moreover, avoid giving fruit juices to children as these may cause diarrhea due to their high sugar content.

Most-Asked Questions About Diarrhea

Can diabetes lead to diarrhea?

Diarrhea may occur in patients with diabetes as a side effect of medications, such as metformin, or the use of sugar-free sweeteners. It can also occur due to damage to the nerves in the intestines, called autonomic neuropathy.

The diarrhea is watery and painless, usually occurs at night, and may lead to fecal incontinence. Diabetic diarrhea may be intermittent with regular bowel movements or even constipation.

Is diarrhea fatal?

Diarrhea is responsible for 2,195 child deaths every day, which is more than the number of deaths caused by malaria, AIDS, and measles combined. It is the second most significant factor for the death of children below 5 years.

However, rotavirus vaccination, breastfeeding, improved water hygiene and sanitation, and the use of safe drinking water have been cost-effective measures toward preventing diarrhea. (10)

What do yellow and green stools during diarrhea indicate?

Generally, stools associated with diarrhea are brown due to the presence of bilirubin, a by-product of red blood cells that is formed in the liver.

Green stools may be due to the consumption of green leafy vegetables, iron supplements, or foods with green food coloring or the rapid movement of food through the large intestine, causing incomplete action on the bile pigments.

Yellow or bright-yellow stools may be symptomatic of a giardiasis infection, decreased production of bile salts, or a liver or gallbladder problem.

What causes black diarrhea?

The presence of digested blood causes your stool to appear black and may occur as a result of internal bleeding in your upper digestive tract (stomach or food pipe).

Black diarrhea can only occur if you bleed a minimum of 2 ounces of blood. Keep in mind that black stools may also be the result of medicines such as Pepto-Bismol, which can be helpful when you have diarrhea.

Can diarrhea and constipation occur at the same time?

Diarrhea and constipation are common problems; however, if both disorders co-occur, it may be indicative of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

The quick fluctuation in symptoms from diarrhea to constipation and vice versa is characteristic of IBS-M (mixed type) and may occur due to various reasons, differing among individuals. (11)

How can a traveler’s diarrhea be prevented?

Traveling internationally, especially to developing countries, can expose you to different diarrhea-causing bacteria such as E. coli. The following steps may help in preventing traveler’s diarrhea:

• Drink only bottled water and beverages, and avoid intake of tap water.
• Do not use ice made from unfiltered water.
• Consume tea or coffee made from bottled or boiled water only.
• Do not eat pre-cut fruits.
• Avoid buying eatables from street vendors.
• Consult your doctor for steps to be taken, according to your place of travel and the period of stay.

Note: Washing your hands with antibacterial soap helps in removing harmful E. coli from your hands. However, it will not have a significant effect on reducing the risk of infection if you do not take other preventive measures.

Are diarrhea and dysentery different?

Diarrhea is the frequent passing of loose and watery stools. Dysentery, on the other hand, is an inflammatory condition in the intestines that may lead to severe diarrhea associated with mucus and blood in the stool.

Dysentery is commonly caused by an infection with Shigella species (bacillary dysentery) or Entamoeba histolytica (amebic dysentery).

Final Word

Diarrhea, characterized by loose, watery stools, is a common digestive problem. It usually resolves in 3–4 days but it can also persist and can lead to dehydration.

Various natural remedies can help treat diarrhea. It is most important to eat right, consume fluids, and get proper rest to combat this condition.

Continue ReadingDiarrhea (Loose Stools): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

References

1. doCarmo MS, Santos CID, Araújo MC, Girón JA, Fernandes ES, Monteiro-Neto V. Probiotics, mechanisms of action, and clinical perspectives for diarrhea management in children. Food & function. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30183037. Published October 17, 2018.
2. Guarino A, Guandalini S, Lo Vecchio A. Probiotics for Prevention and Treatment of Diarrhea. Journal of clinical gastroenterology. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26447963. Published 2015.
3. Rabbani GH, Larson CP, Islam R, Saha UR, Kabir A. Green banana-supplemented diet in the home management of acute and prolonged diarrhoea in children: a community-based trial in rural Bangladesh. Tropical medicine & international health: TM & IH. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20831671. Published October 2010.
4. Falcomer AL, Riquette RFR, de Lima BR, Ginani VC, Zandonadi RP. Health Benefits of Green Banana Consumption: A Systematic Review. Nutrients. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6627159/. Published May 29, 2019.
5. D; CKAW. Traditional Method of Initial Diarrhea Treatment in Children. Comprehensive child and adolescent nursing. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29166193/.
6. Maragkoudaki M; Chouliaras G; Moutafi A; Thomas A; Orfanakou A; Papadopoulou A; Efficacy of an Oral Rehydration Solution Enriched with Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 and Zinc in the Management of Acute Diarrhoea in Infants: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Nutrients. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30200394/. Published 2018.
7. GA; BKGCAMMS. Acute diarrhea: evidence-based management. Jornal de pediatria. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26351768/. Published 2015.
8. Florez ID, Veroniki A-A, Al Khalifah R, et al. Comparative effectiveness and safety of interventions for acute diarrhea and gastroenteritis in children: A systematic review and network meta-analysis. PloS one. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6281220/. Published December 5, 2018.
9. M; L. Oral zinc provision in acute diarrhea. Current opinion in clinical nutrition and metabolic care. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26963581/. Published 2016.
10. Global Diarrhea Burden. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/global/diarrhea-burden.html. Published December 17, 2015.
11. Saha L. Irritable bowel syndrome: pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and evidence-based medicine. World journal of gastroenterology. https://www. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4051916/. Published June 14, 2014.

Symptoms, Causes, Treatment and 22 Natural Home Remedies

Diarrhea can be acute or chronic. It is characterized by loose, watery stools (on Bristol Stool Scale it`s the exact opposite of constipation) or a frequent need to have a bowel movement.

Acute diarrhea usually lasts a few days and often disappears without any treatment. You might experience it due to a viral or bacterial infection. Though, some times, it could also occur as a result of food poisoning. Acute diarrhea is fairly common.

However chronic diarrhea refers to diarrhea that lasts for at least four weeks. It’s commonly the consequence of an intestinal disorder or disease, like for example Crohn’s disease or celiac disease.

There’s also a condition known as traveler’s diarrhea, which happens when you have diarrhea after being exposed to bacteria or parasites while on vacation in a developing nation.

What Causes Diarrhea and What Causes Chronic Diarrhea?

Diarrhea Causes

Causes of diarrhea include:

1. A parasitic infection
2. A viral infection
3. A bacterial infection (due to salmonella or E. coli, among others)
4. A food intolerance, such as lactose intolerance
5. A food allergy
6. An adverse reaction to a medication
7. An intestinal disease
8. Gallbladder or stomach surgery
9. Rotavirus (common cause of childhood diarrhea)

Chronic Diarrhea Causes

Some of the most common causes of chronic diarrhea include:

1. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a term for several chronic conditions involving inflammation of the gut. Two of the most common are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Some symptoms of IBD include, blood in the stool, tiredness, fever, nausea, stomach pain and cramps.
2. Viruses like Rotavirus, Norovirus and Adenovirus.
3. Bacterial infections.
4. Gallbladder removal.
5. Irritable bowel syndrome.
6. Hormonal disorders. Some examples of hormonal disorders include overactive thyroid.
7. Diabetes.
8. Surgery.
9. Allergies. In rare cases, food allergies can lead to loose and watery stools.
10. Intestinal disease or a functional bowel disorder.
11. Drinking large amounts of alcohol, coffee or beverages that contain caffeine, such as coffee or cola.
12. Consuming certain sugars and artificial sweeteners every day. For example sorbitol, mannitol fructose and lactose.
13. Drinking herbal remedies and herbal teas, such as senna.
14. Running can cause diarrhea (sometimes referred to as “runner’s trots”). This usually happens after longer distances over 10K or particularly hard runs.
15. Intestinal parasites can give rise to chronic diarrhea. This is more common in countries with less developed food and water sanitation.
16. Rare tumors. For example, carcinoid tumors produce hormones that cause diarrhea.
17. Cancers like carcinoid syndrome, colon cancer, lymphoma, medullary carcinoma of the thyroid, pancreatic cancer, and pheochromocytoma.
18. Chronic diarrhea can be caused by several prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications like:

• antibiotics, including cefpodoxime, amoxicillin, and ampicillin;
• some antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors;
• antacids that contain magnesium hydroxide;
• laxatives and stool softeners;
• proton pump inhibitors, including omeprazole and lansoprazole;
• chemotherapy drugs to treat cancer;
• toxicity from some medications, such as lithium and digoxin.

Symptoms of Chronic Diarrhea and Bristol Stool Scale

Adults

The symptoms depend on the cause. You may go through any combo of all of these symptoms or only one of them. Symptoms and signs that often accompany with diarrhea may include:

1. Loose or watery stools for 4 weeks or longer. The stools may be any color. The diarrhea may appear even green in color, because stool passes through the intestines faster than usual. Red stools indicate intestinal bleeding, so it may be a sign of a more serious infection.
2. Bloating and gas
3. More frequent bowel movements
4. A sense of urgency to pass stool
5. Abdominal cramps
6. Nausea
7. A burning sensation
8. Fever
9. Dehydration. If diarrhea causes dehydration, it is a sign of possibly severe health issues. Some signs of dehydration are dark urine, dizziness and shakiness, tiredness, fever, fatigue, dry mucous membranes, increased heart rate, a headache, lightheadedness, increased thirst, decreased urination, dry mouth.

Babies and young children

Diarrhea in very young people is a serious condition. If any of the following symptoms apply to your child – seek urgent cure:

1. Diarrhea for 24 hours or more.
2. Stools that contain blood.
3. Fever of 102°F (39°C) or higher.
4. Stools that contain pus.
5. Stools that are black and tarry.

Diarrhea in babies and young people can cause severe dehydration in an infant in just one day. If you see symptoms of dehydration, such as listed below, call your child’s doctor or seek emergency care:

• Dry mouth
• A headache
• Fatigue
• A lack of tears when crying
• Dry skin
• Sunken eyes
• Sunken fontanel
• Sleepiness
• Irritability
• Decreased urination

The Bristol Stool Scale – Which Form of Stool Indicates the Problem and Which Form The Normal Digestion

The Bristol stool scale is a tool created to classify the form of human excreta into seven categories, and is used in experimental and clinical fields for diagnostics.

Therefore, on a scale, it is good to identify which types of stools indicate normal digestive function and which indicate constipation or diarrhea.

According to studies:

• Type 1 and type 2 secretions are more common in women,
• Types 5 and 6 are more common in men.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will carry out a physical examination and consider your medical and lifestyle history, as well as your family medical history when determining the cause of your diarrhea.

The doctor may request laboratory tests in order to determine the cause of your health problem and other related conditions. These tests include:

• Blood test.
• A stool sample to test for bacteria, inflammation, parasites, or signs of disease.
• Fasting tests to determine whether a food intolerance or allergy is the cause.
• Imaging tests to check for inflammation and structural abnormalities of the intestine.
• A colonoscopy to check the entire colon or sigmoidoscopy to check the rectum and lower colon for signs of intestinal disease if you have severe or chronic diarrhea.
• A biopsy.
• An ultrasound or CT scan.

If the cause remains unknown despite these tests, the doctor may diagnose IBS. People with this condition have digestive systems that appear normal but do not function as they should.

Treating chronic diarrhea depends on its underlying cause, and these home treatments below may not help in case of serious conditions. That’s why it’s necessary to consult your doctor.

However in most cases the home treatment can help and you can try these tips.

Home Remedies and Dietary Changes for Diarrhea

If a specific dietary item is the cause of the chronic diarrhea, you can try removing this food or beverage from the diet to see whether or not symptoms improve.

Once the symptoms clear up, it may be possible to gradually start eating these foods again on an infrequent basis, or in moderate amounts.

10 Things to do, eat and drink for diarrhea:

1. Achieve better portion control.
2. Take probiotics because these can restore a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut.
3. Take some fiber supplements, such as psyllium, because it can also relieve chronic diarrhea. Fiber supplements may be especially helpful for those with IBS or other digestive conditions that cause loose stools. However, avoid using products that also contain laxatives.
4. Drink fluids to avoid dehydration, because it is the most serious complication of chronic diarrhea. For example water, non caffeinated teas, and low sodium broths.
5. Sports beverages and mineralized water can be beneficial because they give electrolytes and minerals in addition to providing hydration. You can also add minerals into your usual drinking water.
6. In case diarrhea presents itself together with nausea, suck on ice chips until the nausea ends.
7. Make yourself a blackberry, blueberry, or raspberry leaves tea. Because the leaves of these plants contain tannins that are considered to be great remedies for this health condition. Avoid fresh blueberries as they can worsen diarrhea.
8. Chamomile tea may also be a great diarrhea remedy.
9. BRAT diet for adults, infants and toddlers. The BRAT diet (diarrhea diet) is a combo of foods to eat for diarrhea treatment.
   • Bananas
   • Rice
   • Applesauce
   • Toast
10. Recovery diet. When recovering from diarrhea -a diet of small, frequent meals can be better than eating three larger meals a day. A beneficial diet for diarrhea treatment may involve:
    • Cooked, soft vegetables
    • Foods rich in pectin, such as pears, apples, guavas, quince, plums, gooseberries, oranges and other citrus fruits which contain large amounts of pectin.
    • Foods high in potassium, such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, bananas, oranges, cantaloupe, honeydew, apricots, grapefruit, cooked spinach, cooked broccoli, mushrooms, peas, cucumbers.
    • Adequate amounts of protein.
    • Foods with electrolytes, such as miso soup, sports drinks and mineralized water.

Avoid:

• Stop consuming substances that can cause diarrhea or start to consume them in more moderate amounts.
• Limit or avoid alcohol.
• Limit or avoid coffee and other caffeine consisting beverages.
• Avoid milk because it can make diarrhea worse.
• Avoid greasy, fatty foods and spicy foods.
• Salt tablets may aggravate diarrhea, so try to avoid these.
• Avoid foods containing artificial sweeteners or foods with high levels of fructose.
• Avoid strenuous exercise because exercise increases the risk of dehydration.
• After the diarrhea becomes less intense, avoid spicy foods and alcoholic drinks for two additional days.

Food Supplements For Diarrhea

• Probiotics
• Mineralex Deep Ocean Minerals – Pure Deep Ocean Mineral Complex you can add to your usual drinking water and make yourself a mineral water.
• Fibres, espesially Psyllium – Fibres play an important role in the human digestive process and are an essential part of a healthy diet. Because fibres activate the intestinal peristalsis, accelerate the progression of food, and induce a faster sense of a full stomach. In addition, fibres help bind and expel excess cholesterol, residues and toxins, thereby clearing up the gut walls. Consuming the required amount of fibre daily helps to prevent many health problems such as obesity, irritable bowel syndrome, heart disease, diabetes, and kidney stones. Intestine DETOX contains psyllium from Plantago psyllium and flax seeds, which are among the best and most abundant natural sources of fibres.
• Dandelion Root Extract – Dandelion has been appreciated since ancient times due to its amazing health-promoting effect. The botanical name “Taraxacum officinale” is derived from Greek and means “Heals Inflammation”.

Taking Medications For Diarrhea or Switching The Medications

Diarrhea that occurs due to a medical condition, might resolve with treatment of the underlying condition. In addition, people taking medications that can cause chronic diarrhea should talk to their doctor about alternative drugs that do not have this side effect.

Other medications that may help include:

• Antidiarrheal medications are a short-term remedy. Although they tend to relieve symptoms, people should not use them on an ongoing basis and should see a doctor.
• Antibiotics, for bacterial infections.
• Codeine-containing medications, which can reduce watery and loose stools.
• OTC medications to slow down the passage of stool through the digestive tract. For instance, bismuth (Pepto-Bismol) and loperamide (Imodium).
• In addition, probiotics.

Prevention

Not all cases of chronic diarrhea are preventable. However, it is possible to reduce the risk of chronic diarrhea if you:

• Drink only clean or filtered water.
• Wash your hands both before and after food preparation and eating.
• Always clean and completely cook all meat products before eating.
• Keep a food diary and see how cutting particular foods from the diet affects the diarrhea.
• Discuss the side effects of any current medications with a doctor. In addition, request a change in medications if necessary.
• Take probiotic supplements regularly.
• Wash fresh produce before eating it.
• Clean kitchen surfaces regularly.
• In addition, wash your hands regularly, especially after using the bathroom or coming into contact with a person who is ill.

NB! You should consult your physician if other symptoms come along (like fever or fatigue), or you have diarrhea that lasts more than a few days. In conclusion, if you notice any symptoms of dehydration, you should consult a doctor immediately.

NB! The information provided here is for informational purposes only, so do not consider it as health care or medical diagnosis and treatment. Do not consider this information as a guarantee of the results you want to achieve. In addition, this information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician or other healthcare professional.

Even more, you should not use it to diagnose or treat a health problem. Before changing or discontinuing your existing medication, treatment, or care, or taking any dietary supplements, be sure to consult with your healthcare professional or doctor before starting any diet or program, or if you suspect you may have a medical condition.

Compiled and edited by Maria-Helena Loik

Sources: Emedicinehealth.com, Medicalnewstoday.com

Pictures: Pexels.com, Pixabay.com, Shutterstock.com

Let us know if you liked the post. That’s the only way we can improve.

How to Treat Diarrhea in Kids – Children’s Health

Nothing can slow down a child’s fun – or interfere with family plans – more than a case of diarrhea. Diarrhea is a common condition that occurs when stool has too much water in it.

“The colon is designed to absorb water so that the stool has form and consistency. At times, the stool absorbs too much water, resulting in diarrhea,” explains Lauren Lazar, M.D., Pediatric Gastroenterologist with Children’s Health℠ and Assistant Professor at UT Southwestern. “If your child has a loose or liquid stool at least three or more times per day, it’s probably diarrhea.”

The best treatment for your child’s diarrhea may depend on its cause, but there are ways to provide relief from diarrhea symptoms. Learn how to treat diarrhea in kids, including advice on anti-diarrheal medicines, home remedies and the best foods to give your child.

What can cause diarrhea in kids?

Usually, when children get diarrhea, it’s considered “acute,” meaning it lasts from a few days up to a week. The most common cause of acute diarrhea is some sort of infection, whether viral, bacterial or parasitic.

Beyond stomach bugs, diarrhea in kids can also be triggered by other issues, including:

Chronic diarrhea is diarrhea that lasts longer than 2-4 weeks and is less common. Like acute diarrhea, it can be caused by a bacterial, viral or parasitic infection. Chronic diarrhea might also be triggered by underlying inflammation in the body, genetic or autoimmune conditions such as celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease, or functional GI disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome.

What can I give my child to stop diarrhea?

Usually, medicine is not necessary to treat diarrhea in kids. In most cases, acute infectious diarrhea will stop when the body clears out the infection.

“Diarrhea is like a cough when you have a cold. Your gut is trying to get the bad stuff out,” explains Dr. Lazar. “If you slow down the gut with an anti-diarrheal medicine during infectious diarrhea, you’re keeping the infection inside.”

If your child’s diarrhea lasts more than a few days, check with your pediatrician to determine the cause and best treatment. For chronic diarrhea, your doctor might suggest a change of diet, medication or other ongoing treatment.

Information about diarrhea medicine for kids

• Generally, antibiotics are not used to treat infectious diarrhea in children.
• Always check with your doctor before giving your child over-the-counter diarrhea medications such as Imodium and Pepto-Bismol.
• For some types of infectious diarrhea, probiotics may be helpful. You can purchase probiotics over the counter in liquid and pill form. Make sure to buy the version that is “for children.” Check with your doctor before using probiotics if your child is under age 3.
• Do not give any type of medication to children under age 3 without first consulting your physician.

What are home remedies for diarrhea in kids?

There is no one specific food, drink or home remedy that will stop your child’s diarrhea. The best treatment for your child’s diarrhea is supportive care. To provide relief from diarrhea symptoms, focus on:

• Keeping your child hydrated
• Offering a variety of nutritious foods
• Identifying triggers or problem foods

“With diarrhea, the body loses salts and electrolytes, so it’s very important to help your child stay hydrated,” says Dr. Lazar. “Avoid juice and other sugary beverages.”

To keep a child with diarrhea hydrated, offer plenty of fluids, such as:

• Water
• Broth or soup
• Pediatric electrolyte solutions in liquid or freezer pop form
• Sports drinks, such as Gatorade or Powerade (choose low-sugar varieties)

What should you feed a child who has diarrhea?

If your child has diarrhea, it’s important to feed them a healthy, well-balanced diet in addition to plenty of fluids. In the past, doctors suggested the “BRAT” diet (bananas, rice, applesauce and toast) as a solution to help children with diarrhea. Now, many doctors don’t recommend it.

“The BRAT diet is restrictive and does not necessarily help stop diarrhea,” explains Dr. Lazar. “Instead, we recommend that children continue to eat a nutritious, well-rounded diet, as there is evidence that the intestine heals when the child is fed.”

For breastfed babies and children, breast milk continues to be a great option for nutrition through diarrhea. “Breast milk is easily absorbed and has more nutrients than electrolyte solutions,” says Dr. Lazar. However, parents should keep in mind that infants, especially newborns, are very susceptible to dehydration with diarrhea, so if you notice any change in a baby’s stool pattern, you should contact your pediatrician.

In certain cases of diarrhea, your child’s pediatrician might suggest a dairy-free or low-sugar diet – on a short-term basis. If your child’s diarrhea persists, try keeping a food diary. For some people, certain foods can trigger diarrhea. For example, some patients with irritable bowel syndrome notice that high-fat, high-sugar or spicy foods tend to cause problems. For some children, gluten or dairy might trigger diarrhea. If you sense that a particular food is causing a problem for your child, write it down and discuss it with your doctor.

Will fiber or certain foods stop my child’s diarrhea?

Fiber is often used to regulate bowel movements and can be used in both constipated and diarrheal states, depending on the type of fiber in the food. Pectin, a naturally occurring substance in food, can also be used to thicken stools. Certain fiber-rich foods may help slow your child’s diarrhea. High-fiber foods that may help with diarrhea include:

• Apples (not the skin)
• Bananas
• Barley
• Oats
• Beans
• Peas
• Sweet potatoes (not the skin)

Discuss with your doctor if a fiber supplement is appropriate to give your child.

When should I take my child to the doctor for diarrhea?

Call a physician about diarrhea if your child:

• Is less than 6 months of age
• Has blood in the stool
• Shows signs of dehydration (low urine output, no tears, no spit in the mouth, excessive sleepiness or low activity level)
• Is vomiting
• Has a high fever that does not improve with fever medication
• Has abdominal distention (swelling or enlargement)
• Has a history of abdominal surgeries
• Shows symptoms lasting longer than 2-3 days

“Even if your child is staying hydrated, I would recommend going to the pediatrician if the diarrhea is not improving after two or three days – just to make sure no other evaluations are needed,” recommends Dr. Lazar.

Learn more about childhood diarrhea and gastroenterology

The Pediatric Gastroenterology Division at Children’s Health offers specialized programs to help children and their families manage a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions. Learn more about our GI program, services and support we offer children and families.

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10 Natural Diarrhea Remedies to Make You Feel Better Instantly

Bathroom fear is real, my friends. You know where the restroom is at every restaurant, mall, and venue you go to. You’ve categorized toilet paper brands on a scale of razor-blade-sharp to pillow-soft. And you’ve mastered the art of quietly going to the bathroom out in public. But you know this is no way to live — constantly tied down to the toilet, hardly able to get through a Netflix binge fest, dinner party, or a full night’s sleep.

Diarrhea is a symptom of an underlying issue. While finding the root of your diarrhea issues may require testing with your doctor or health practitioner, there are many natural remedies you can do to reduce frequency, irritation and urgency. All in an effort to calm the digestive tract down (because it’s working too darn hard right now!) try one or all of these diarrhea remedies the next time you find yourself running to the bathroom.

1. Make herbal tea your friend

Need some fast relief? Herbal teas come in handy for so many health needs — diarrhea included. The best teas to address diarrhea are slippery elm, red raspberry, nettle, mint and cinnamon. Each serves a specific and beneficial purpose for digestive health, so having one or all of them in your cabinets for when the urge hits can help put a stop to the madness.

Slippery elm tea, for example, is extremely soothing to the digestive tract, helping to calm down inflammation and irritation. While it’s best to drink these teas regularly, they can help on the spot as well.

2. Recline and relax

The very nature of diarrhea is painful, so to help ease the pain, lie on your back with a pillow under your knees and then place a hot water bottle on a towel over your abdomen. This will help slow the downward pressure and calm muscle spasms and irritation. While lying in this position, take a few deep breaths. This can help calm the central nervous system, which plays a big role in transit time.

3. Sip on bone or vegetable broth

Like tea, broth is another soothing beverage that can help to address diarrhea.

Bone broth, for example, is made of collagen and gelatin, which help to rebuild and repair damaged cells. If parts of your digestive tract are damaged (which could be why you’re having diarrhea in the first place), bone broth can be quite healing.

Vegetable broth offers many nutrients to the digestive tract to help replenish lost vitamins and minerals due to poor digestion. You can either make broth at home in a crockpot or Instapot or buy pre-made bone broth at your local grocery store.

Here’s a video to teach you how to make chicken bone broth:

4. Avoid dairy, fat, sugar and excess meat

These foods are often the toughest for the body to digest, and as a result, can contribute to an irritated digestive tract.

For example, many of us naturally become depleted of the enzymes necessary to digest diary as we wean from breastfeeding and get nutrients from food instead. When you no longer have the ability to break down milk sugars (called lactose intolerance), it becomes quite difficult to process dairy-based foods, causing them to either sit for longer periods in your system or rapidly be expelled.

Fat is another resource-intensive food group, and meat is often high in fat. If you lack the ability to create the enzyme lipase, which is required to breakdown fat, that too can either cause the food to sit for long periods in your system or rapidly exit via diarrhea.

And because sugar is often highly processed and seen as food to things like Candida, a yeast in the body that can easily become overgrown, this can set the system on high alert and lead to issues like diarrhea.

5. Turn to the BRAT diet

If the above list of foods just cut out a lot of what you are currently eating, here are some new foods to focus on instead. Especially when diarrhea rears its ugly head, go back to basics by eating soft, easier-to-digest foods.

The foods that may benefit you the most during this time have a handy acronym: BRAT. Bananas, rice, apples, and toast (preferably gluten-free) can both give your system a break from digesting tougher foods as well as provide key nutrients to the body.

6. Befriend probiotics

Did you know that the good bacteria inside of us regulate most of the digestion process? However, levels of beneficial bacteria can dip due to overuse of antibiotics, a poor diet, lack of fiber, stress and aging. Overtime, this can cause us to lose full digestive function, causing issues like diarrhea.

Probiotics are the beneficial bacteria that can be taken via supplementation or by eating fermented foods to help restore balance in your digestive tract.

Probiotics can be found in fermented foods like sauerkraut and kimchi, or in drinks like kefir or kombucha. I

f those don’t excite you, or aren’t accessible at your local grocery store, keep a bottle of probiotic supplements on hand. Look for one that has several billion probiotics and a wide variety of strains.

If you’ve had digestive health issues for quite awhile, it may be beneficial to take probiotics for up to six months, but especially have them on hand for when diarrhea flares up.

7. Load up on aloe vera juice

Aloe vera juice is another incredibly soothing drink to have when you can’t seem to keep anything in. Just like you use aloe vera gel to soothe a sunburn or bug bite, the juice of the aloe plant has a very similar effect on your internal organs. When consumed, aloe provides a soothing coating to the digestive tract.

It’s recommended to drink 2-4oz a few times a day if you’re having diarrhea or general digestive upset. It can also be beneficial to drink it right before a meal to help the food settle in your system better.

Making aloe vera juice is easy, here’s how:

8. Slowly increase fiber intake

Fiber used to be looked down upon in the world of digestive health, but today there is much research on its benefits. Fiber not only helps to clear out toxins and waste (some of which may be causing irritation to the tract, causing diarrhea), in some forms it actually serves as food for your probiotic flora, keeping your good bacteria levels strong and happy.

To start, increase amounts of fiber slowly to get your system accustomed to this food group, especially if it’s not a regular part of your diet right now.

Ground flaxseed can be a great way to begin. Mix 1 tbsp of ground flaxseed in 1 cup of hot water to make a “tea” blend. Overtime, graduate up to dark leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables and soaked nuts or seeds, if tolerated.

If you’re looking for some high fiber foods, here’re some ideas: 20 Ultimate High Fiber Foods To Add To Your Diet

9. Make clay your partner in crime

Bentonite clay, that is. Bentonite clay is useful for removing harmful toxins and bad bacteria in your intestines, allowing good bacteria to flourish. It acts like a vacuum, slowly sucking up toxins from the digestive tract as it moves along. With irritants gone, digestion can begin to resume more normal function.

Please note that bentonite clay should be used with caution as it is very dehydrating. Always take it with ample water and start with a low amount.

10. Help your body better breakdown foods with enzymes

In my last post on home remedies for a stomach ache, I explained the many benefits of digestive enzymes. If the body is having trouble producing enzymes on its own (which are necessary to adequately breakdown proteins, fat, and carbohydrates), that can cause a lot of stress on the system. This can result either in slow or rapid transit time, depending on what else is going on inside, such as an infection or inflammation.

Short-term supplementation with digestive enzymes can help your body to better break down foods, making it easier for your system to absorb nutrients and maintain normal transit time. This can also help reduce undigested food from showing up in your stool.

So long bathroom, hello life!

Wouldn’t it be nice to see less of your bathroom each day? Having personally lived through a digestive health disease that caused me a great deal of bathroom fear and frequent bathroom trips, I know how debilitating and all-consuming diarrhea can be. However, following the tips in this post, you can help your body both in the near- and long-term, slowly making diarrhea a symptom of the past.

Remember to also get your stool tested to find out what else may be at play that is causing diarrhea in the first place. When addressed at the root of the problem, issues like diarrhea can resolve themselves much quicker. The tips in this post will help ensure even faster progress towards that goal.

7 Remedies to Stop Diarrhea

Eat Fermented Foods and Probiotics

If you suffer from diarrhea, try adding fermented foods such as sauerkraut or kimchi to your meals: cabbage is fantastic for the colon. The healthy bacteria found in yogurt can also help keep your intestines healthy, but not if you’re sensitive to dairy. Consider buying a probiotic supplement from your health food store instead. Look for a brand that contains strains of acidophilus and bifidobacterium.

See Also: Bowel Problems

Mix Up Some Pedialyte  

When your little ones are recovering from a tummy bug, you can help them feel better sooner with this homemade (and natural!) version of Pedialyte. Mix together one quart of water, a half cup of orange juice, two tablespoons of sugar, three-quarters of a teaspoon of baking soda, and a quarter teaspoon of salt. Serve once their vomiting has stopped for a few hours. Make sure to contact a doctor if any problems persis

Drink Chamomile and Rice Water

To soothe a sudden bout of diarrhea, try drinking chamomile tea. Rice water may also be helpful. Boil a half cup of brown rice in three cups of water, let simmer for 45 minutes, strain, and drink the rice water on its own. Eat the rice too: a high-fiber diet helps combat diarrhea, and the B vitamins will help your digestive system heal.

Stay Hydrated

When you have diarrhea, you know it’s important to stay hydrated. Black tea with a bit of sugar or honey not only helps with rehydration, but the tannins can actually help stop the intestinal inflammation. Avoid adding milk, of course, which could make the problem worse. If you’re a health nut and happen to have any carob powder on hand, you can add a teaspoon or so to hot water and drink it. It will have the same effect as the black tea.

Look into Lactose Intolerance

All your life you enjoyed milk, cheese, ice cream, and all variety of dairy products, so why should they give you tummy trouble now? It’s a real bummer, but lactose intolerance can strike at any age. Take a break from all dairy for a week and see if you feel better. (The good news is that if you’re lactose intolerant, you should still be able to eat yogurt and some varieties of cheese.)

See Also: Natural Remedies for Stomach Pain

The Wonders of Wine

You’re enjoying an exotic vacation, sampling the local street food, but that tasty grilled meat on a stick didn’t settle with you and now you have a bout of traveler’s diarrhea. Have a glass of wine! It turns out that wine will quickly go to work in killing those nasty bacteria, so you’ll be feeling normal again in no time. Just stick to one glass, or you may have other problems on your hands!

Be a BRAT

Once the “runs” stop running, try the time-tested BRAT diet to get you feeling like yourself again. BRAT stands for Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast. These comforting foods will make your tummy feel better and have the important effect of firming up loose stool.

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These are the 5 MOST EFFECTIVE home remedies for treating diarrhea

Diarrhea occurs when your gastrointestinal system gets disrupted. It is a digestive problem that usually occurs due to a virus or bacteria. It causes loose and watery bowel movements, abdominal cramping, bloating etc and usually goes away on its own. But in some cases, it may last for longer periods. It can be caused by a viral infection, a bacterial infection, contaminated water or food poisoning. Some other causes of diarrhea include parasites, intestinal diseases, reactions to antibiotics etc. Symptoms of diarrhea include stomach cramps, fever, bloating, bowel movement urgency and dehydration. 

Diarrhea is generally of three types. The first one being acute diarrhea wherein the loose and watery motions last for 2-3 days and do not require treatment and go away on its own. The second kind is known as persistent diarrhea that can last for many weeks. The last type is chronic diarrhea that lasts for more than four weeks.

Sometimes in extreme cases, diarrhea can cause complications, loss of water and electrolytes due to the watery and loose stool, as in this gastrointestinal condition. This can result in severe dehydration. Symptoms of severe dehydration include increased heart rate, headache, lightheadedness, fatigue, dry mucous membranes, increased thirst, dry mouth, etc.

Hydrate

The most common symptom of diarrhea is dehydration as the frequent watery stools can cause a deficit of fluids and electrolytes in the body such as sodium and chloride. Therefore to support the recovery from diarrhea, the essential fluids need to be restored. Drinking water is the best and quickest way to rehydrate. You can also mix 1 litre of water with ½ tsp salt and 6 tsp sugar and drink it for rehydration. 

Sugar and salt mixed with water will help the intestines to absorb fluids. Avoid drinking soft drinks or caffeinated drinks, as this may worsen the situation.

Consume the right foods

Eating the right kind of foods can help provide immediate relief from diarrhea. Consume low-fibre foods but high in starch, that will not worsen the situation and will firm up the stool. Eat bland foods that can be easily digested by the body. These include oatmeal, baked potatoes, chicken breasts, chicken soup, etc. In addition to this, you can also eat carrots as they are a soothing source of pectin and bananas as they will help in restoring the lost potassium. 

Probiotics

Probiotics are live bacteria that are present in fermented foods and yoghurt. These are microorganisms that are beneficial for the digestive system and fight infection. These are sources of the bacterias that are good for the gut and intestinal tract. Probiotics protect your intestines from the unwanted pathogens and ensure proper absorption of the nutrients. It helps alleviate the symptoms of diarrhea by restoring the balance of the gut bacteria.

These are present in certain foods like cottage cheese, dark chocolate, olives, miso, kimchi, pickles, aged cheeses, yoghurt, etc.

Drink tea

Drinking certain teas like chamomile tea, ginger tea, green tea, lemon tea, etc. can help in reducing the symptoms of diarrhea. Chamomile tea is known for its calming effects and for soothing an upset stomach. This tea is rich in antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help in getting rid of the parasites and harmful pathogens that are causing diarrhea. Having a combination of myrrh, coffee charcoal, and chamomile can significantly help in treating acute diarrhea that is caused by an inflamed gastrointestinal tract.

Ginger has been used for ages as a remedy for various stomach problems. Consuming it in the form of tea can soothe symptoms of diarrhea like abdominal pain and nausea and it can help in improving digestion and increasing blood flow. Lemongrass tea is said to be beneficial for people suffering from diarrhea as lemons contain antioxidants and chemical compounds that can help get rid of the diarrhea-causing bacteria and virus. 

The consumption of green tea can help in reducing the symptoms of diarrhea like stomach pain and inflammation. It contains catechins that help in fighting the diarrhea-causing infections and promotes healthy and firm bowel movements.

Avoid certain foods

While there are certain foods that one must consume to alleviate the symptoms of diarrhea, there are also some foods that need to be avoided to not worsen the situation. Fried and greasy foods that are high in fibre must be avoided as these can cause bloating. 

Avoid fruit juices as large amounts of fructose can be difficult to digest. Avoid foods rich in roughage like cabbage, beans, Brussel sprouts, etc. In addition to these, artificial sweeteners, broccoli, alcohol, cauliflower, coffee, milk, peas, corn, chickpeas, peppers, etc. must be avoided.

Also Read: Try THESE 5 home remedies to get rid of pimples permanently for flawless skin in 2021

What are the best folk remedies for diarrhea

Diarrhea, or indigestion, is a fairly popular disease that occurs quite often in every person throughout life. More often than not, we do not attach any importance to this. With the most severe diarrhea, we take a day off from work and spend it closer to the toilet. In fact, there can be a lot of reasons for such a violation of the gastrointestinal tract, and some of them are quite serious. That is, it is important to start treatment on time so as not to start the disease.Today we will consider folk remedies for diarrhea, which you can use in any situation, because they are all readily available.

Definition of diarrhea

What constitutes a disorder? In adults and children, the specific signs are the same. These are painful sensations inside the abdomen, liquid feces, strong gas formation and seething. In some cases, the separation of feces becomes uncontrolled. If this condition is observed for 24 hours or more, accompanied by severe pain, green, foamy and mucous discharge, you should immediately consult a doctor.In all other situations, you can use folk remedies for diarrhea.

Why diarrhea is dangerous

Watery stools lead to large losses of water. If diarrhea is also accompanied by vomiting, then dehydration occurs even faster. The human body contains about 80% water. Blood is 84% ​​water, from this we can already conclude how important water is for our body.

Even for an adult, dehydration can lead to serious health problems.For a small child, it can be fatal. All systems and organs suffer from a lack of fluid. In addition, with diarrhea, vital minerals are washed out along with the water. Of course, there are drugs today that effectively fight the cause of diarrhea. But they all have their drawbacks. Therefore, folk remedies for diarrhea do not lose their relevance.

Reasons

Of course, if a person has an upset stomach, he is unlikely to immediately run to take tests. But it is necessary to analyze everything that happened the day before.

• Eating spoiled food can provoke indigestion. This is what most often becomes the cause of your suffering.
• Poisoning with various toxins.
• Stress caused by anxiety or fear.
• Diarrhea can be the result of various diseases of the intestines, pancreas and liver.

In order to alleviate the patient’s condition, both medicinal and folk remedies for diarrhea are widely used.

Instant help

Even mild diarrhea is quite unpleasant. Therefore, it is logical that a person wants to put his condition in order as soon as possible and restore his working capacity. Treatment of diarrhea with folk remedies can be quick. It is generally accepted that herbs and tinctures help much more slowly than pharmaceutical preparations, but this rule does not always work. We list the emergency remedies:

• Chicken ventricles. More precisely, you only need a thin film.It needs to be separated, rinsed and dried. Grind the raw materials into a fine powder and take in a large spoon with water. Usually, even a single dose can bring the condition back to normal.
• A tincture of walnut partitions can be a good remedy. To prepare it, you will need 100 g of partitions and 150 ml of pure alcohol. After two days, you can strain and put in the refrigerator. Judging by the reviews, this is an excellent folk remedy for diarrhea. Adults do not have time to patiently wait for their condition to improve.And this simple and time-tested drug can be a real salvation.
• If nothing else is at hand, you can use potato starch. Should be taken in large spoonfuls with water. Starch acts very quickly and efficiently.

Diet

Gentle eating is what determines good results in adults. Folk remedies for diarrhea will be much less effective if you eat foods that are difficult for digestion, which contribute to bloating and loosening of the intestines.Therefore, during the acute phase, it is best to leave only light broth and yogurt on the menu.

Not all yoghurts are created equal. Fermented milk products filled with preservatives, sugar and gelatin are sold in bright bottles. And a completely different thing is a living product. Homemade yoghurt made from natural bifidobacteria sourdough is exactly what your body needs. Treatment of diarrhea with folk remedies in adults proceeds much faster against the background of such a diet. You eliminate bad bacteria and repopulate the intestines with beneficial ones.To eliminate loose stools, you need to drink 2 cups of fresh yogurt every hour.

Hot spices

Today we use them exclusively to give dishes a special taste and aroma. But it has long been known that all spices have a very strong effect on the digestive system. During an exacerbation of chronic diseases, it is better not to use them, but spices will only benefit a healthy body. Including they allow you to get rid of diarrhea at home.Folk remedies are usually at your fingertips, you just often do not know about them. Among them is the usual ginger.

It is a natural antibacterial agent that relieves pain and burning sensation associated with diarrhea. You need to take a small piece of root and pour boiling water over it. Let stand and drink hot in small sips. It is recommended to drink at least 3 cups a day. Ginger tea is the most delicious way to treat diarrhea.

Lemon juice and baking soda

This is the base of the familiar pop.With a mild degree of disorder, it helps a lot. The combination of these two ingredients helps kill bacteria and regulate the pH balance of gastric juice. For cooking, you need the juice of two medium-sized lemons and half a teaspoon of baking soda. You need to drink very quickly while the foaming process is in progress. This will kill all bacteria that cause diarrhea.

Orange peel tea

For the New Year holidays, you can procure a sufficient amount of this raw material for the whole year.It is a source of vitamin C and also a remedy for indigestion. If you want to cure diarrhea quickly without resorting to the help of drugs, then this is exactly the drug that you need. The drink is tasty, bright and healthy. To prepare a medicinal broth, you need 30 g of orange peels, pour 500 ml of water. Boil and refrigerate. You need to take in small portions throughout the day.

Banana Dessert

This fruit is rich in potassium and fiber, which helps to relieve any digestive problems.Bananas contain a lot of pectin. Dietary fiber retains water, which contributes to the hardening of feces. Potassium helps to correct any electrolyte imbalance in the stomach. This helps to normalize the stool. It is enough to eat ripe bananas every day.

Chamomile tea

Another folk remedy for diarrhea. Adults quickly run out of patience and need immediate results. This means that you need a proven tool that is always at hand. It could be a common garden chamomile.It soothes and relaxes, helps fight inflammation in the stomach. Take a tablespoon of dried flowers and pour a glass of boiling water over it. You need to take this infusion 2 – 3 times a day, 100 g. As a result, you will quickly get rid of diarrhea and restore normal digestion.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Another excellent remedy for restoring the pH balance of gastric juice. This contributes to the death of harmful bacteria, as well as the reproduction of beneficial ones. As a result, the intestinal microflora is normalized.Take a quarter cup of apple cider vinegar and add water until the glass is full. Add lemon juice and consume the mixture once a day for a tablespoon. This remedy helps to cope with diarrhea very quickly.

Herbal preparations

If the diarrhea is severe and does not stop in any way, then you can use collections in which one plant complements the other. As a result, the efficiency increases many times over:

1. Decoction of rosehip and sage roots. To do this, take 250 g of rosehip roots (they can be replaced with berries), add 50 g of sage leaves and pour 500 g of boiling water.Consume 50 ml twice a day.
2. Gentle home remedy for diarrhea is made from a mixture of dried chamomile, wormwood and St. John’s wort. Add 500 g of vodka and leave for two weeks. Add 3 tablespoons of honey and take a tablespoon three times a day.

Treatment of children

Remember: diarrhea in children under one year old cannot be treated at home! The body weight is too small and dehydration occurs very quickly. Folk remedies for diarrhea for children under one year old should be prescribed only by a doctor.In babies, the stool is normally liquid and can be up to 15 times a day. This is normal and has nothing to do with disruption of the gastrointestinal tract. If mucus appears in the feces, they change their color, become foamy, all this indicates the development of pathology.

So, if a child has diarrhea, you should immediately call a doctor. If diarrhea is accompanied by a high fever, call an ambulance immediately. In children, folk remedies for diarrhea can cause poisoning. Therefore, only a specialist can select the drug and dosage.For example, bird cherry is capable of releasing toxic substances. Therefore, adults take it without fear, and it is dangerous to give it to children. With the permission of the doctor, you can make blueberry jelly. It has astringent properties. And the pleasant taste allows you to calmly drink the baby.

Treatment of a preschooler

If a baby is sick, parents usually immediately consult a doctor. As you grow and mature, parental anxiety decreases. A small disorder is no longer considered something dangerous and is corrected with herbs and decoctions.But before starting treatment, it is very important to make sure that the diarrhea is not caused by serious illness or poisoning.

Which herbs lead to a stable result in children? Folk remedies for diarrhea must be chosen very carefully to avoid side effects.

1. Wormwood decoction. This plant is not very rare. It grows everywhere and is available. In order to prepare an effective medicine, you need to pour a tablespoon of dry herb with a glass of boiling water.It is recommended to add a tablespoon of burnet to increase efficiency. Take two teaspoons before meals.
2. Mountain ash juice is an excellent remedy for diarrhea. 30 minutes before meals, you need to drink a quarter of a glass. Of course, it is quite tart, so it is advisable to add a little honey.
3. Roasted sunflower seeds are also great. To stop diarrhea, it is recommended to pour a glass of fried seeds with two glasses of boiling water and simmer until half of the water evaporates.Strain and take in two tablespoons.
4. Black pepper. In case of indigestion, many people save themselves with black peppercorns – swallow 2-3 things without chewing. Beans are also popular.

If the condition continues to deteriorate, you should seek the help of a specialist. Only an experienced doctor can tell you how to treat diarrhea with folk remedies with minimal temporary losses and risks.

Instead of a conclusion

Treating diarrhea at home is not difficult at all.Nature has prepared dozens of options for medicinal preparations, herbs and infusions that cost practically nothing, are prepared in a matter of minutes, but at the same time are very effective. Today we have considered only a few recipes that are the most famous and have been repeatedly tested in practice. They are great at helping adults and children. Remember that each disease must be treated individually. Therefore, it is important to seek the advice of a doctor.

Calf diarrhea: alternative treatment

Published: 01.04.2018

Author: Roman Kucheryavenko, Viktoria Kucheryavenko, SmartBioLab LLC

Practical guidelines for the prevention and treatment of neonatal diarrhea in calves

Before treating a sick animal, it is necessary to establish why there was a disorder in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. The first days of a calf’s life are considered the most dangerous. During this period, diarrhea can begin for many reasons, which can be several:

• unformed immunity of newborn calves – violation or absence of vaccination of dry cows;
• non-observance of keeping rules – unsanitary conditions, overcrowding of young animals, poor ventilation system;
• the transferred stress – transportation of young animals, heavy calving;
• violation of the feeding regime – low quality colostrum, a sharp change in the usual feed, excess milk;
• viral infections – rotavirus, coronavirus;
• bacterial infections – enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Clostridium;
• protozoa – Cryptosporidium, Eimeria.

Neonatal diarrhea is mainly based on a primary viral infection of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), accompanied by damage to the mucous membrane of the small intestine, which, in turn, serves as a barrier to the entry of pathogens into the bloodstream and, as a consequence, a violation of the water-salt balance. Diseases are usually caused by enteropathogenic viruses, such as rotavirus, coronavirus, parvovirus.

Epizootically significant rotaviruses and coronaviruses are also widespread in Ukraine.It is they who, multiplying in the epithelial cells of the intestinal mucosa, violate their integrity and barrier functions, and pathogenic and opportunistic bacteria that constantly “live” in the digestive tract enter the bloodstream and vital organs in unlimited quantities.

Treatment

Treatment of calf diarrhea depends on how badly the body is affected and on the type of virus causing the diarrhea.

At the first signs of the disease, you should not waste time on self-medication, you need to urgently consult a veterinarian.He must find out the reason, send the diagnostic material to the laboratory (4-5 samples of feces and blood serum from sick animals are enough), establish a diagnosis and only then prescribe treatment. If diarrhea in calves is of viral origin, or the cause of food poisoning has been established, then medications should be treated.

They are of several types: medicines for oral rehydration. Such drugs restore water and electrolyte balance and enrich the body with the necessary microelements – chlorine, potassium and sodium, and contain the required amount of glucose.These are fast-acting drugs, they are produced in powder form, in packages of 0.5-1 kg, from which solutions of the required concentration and in the required amount are prepared. Today on the market of veterinary drugs there are a sufficient number of convenient complex diarrhea treatment products in the form of ready-made sachets, which only need to be dissolved in a portion of colostrum. Such a bag usually contains the required amount of minerals, vitamins, amino acids, antibiotic and immunoglobulins to viral and bacterial pathogens.Also, such preparations are available in the form of syringe tubes with dispensers.

For the treatment of bacterial diarrhea, veterinarians advise the use of drugs of the tetracycline, biomycin and chloramphenicol groups. If the presence of cryptosporidium in the fecal masses has been established, then treatment is carried out with the help of special preparations based on toltrazuril or halofugion lactate.

For parenteral therapy of diarrhea and restoration of water-salt balance, a wide range of agents are used from saline solution with the addition of glucose or borgluconate.In severe cases, it is advisable to use liquid multicomponent preparations containing all the substances necessary for the vital functions of sick animals.

To accelerate the recovery of the intestinal microflora of the calf, it is advisable to use sorbents and probiotic preparations.

Due to the increase in temperature of sick animals, they should be kept in heated rooms, the amount of milk fed to calves should be reduced, since with diarrhea, the intestines of a sick animal cannot cope with this product.It is also known that milk creates favorable conditions for the growth and reproduction of harmful bacteria.

Folk remedies

It is possible to treat diarrhea in calves with folk remedies, which are used both for treatment and for its prevention. Often this can be solved with decoctions from cereals – barley, oats, rye. For mild diarrhea in calves, barley broth helps well. To do this, take 1 liter of water, add 150 g of grain and cook, stirring, for about 1 hour. Then filter the broth. The animal needs to drink 0.5 liters of water 5 times during the day, replacing the milk.

Most famous popular folk remedies for diarrhea in calves:

• flaxseed decoction: 50 g of dry flax seeds are boiled in 1 liter of water for about 1 hour. Then strain and add boiled water, bringing the amount to 2 liters. Drink 500 ml for a sick animal twice a day;
• decoctions of wild rose berries or St. John’s wort leaves: pour 100 g of wild rose / St. John’s wort with boiling water, about 1 liter, let it brew for 8 hours. Drink 250 ml of the sick animal 3 times a day.

Prevention

Patients and calves with suspected disease are also given immune serum against pneumoenteritis of calves for therapeutic purposes in the following doses:

• calves up to one month old – 40-50 cm3;

90,019 calves over one month old – 50-80 cm3.

For prevention, the immune serum against pneumoenteritis of calves is injected subcutaneously or intramuscularly in the following doses for calves with suspected disease:

90,018 90,019 calves under one month of age – 15-20 cm3;

90,019 calves over one month old – 20-30 cm3.

Diarrhea in calves will not be a problem if you comply with all sanitary and hygienic standards for keeping and caring for young animals: check and keep the cages for babies clean and disinfect according to the established deadlines.

Also, do not forget about the timely vaccination of dry cows – this will prevent viral and bacterial diarrhea. It is also necessary to organize the feeding of colostrum in sufficient quantity and high quality for newborn calves. Usually, colostrum from cows of 2-3rd lactation contains a greater amount of antibodies to pathogens of intestinal diseases as a result of previously carried out immunizations (natural or artificial).In appearance, it has a yellow-cream color and a thick consistency.

An important aspect of colostrum drinking technology is both the determination of its quality using colostrometers and its timely drinking, taking into account the temperature regime of 38-39 ° C. Due to the physiological features of the intestinal epithelium of a newborn calf, the absorption of globular proteins is the highest in the first 1-1.5 hours of life and gradually decreases to 9-10 hours. Based on this, it is critically important to drink quality colostrum twice during this period, on average, at the rate of 4-5% of the calf’s weight.

High milk yield and healthy animals for you!

How to get rid of diarrhea with folk remedies

If the general state of health is in order and episodes of diarrhea are repeated no more than three to four times a day, you can cope with the malaise with folk remedies.

Diarrhea in humans can be caused by infection, intoxication, disturbances in the functioning of the digestive system and an unbalanced diet. It often happens that a bowel disorder occurs after taking certain medications, such as antibiotics, antidepressants, and other medications.

What to do with diarrhea

If diarrhea persists during the day, episodes increase and you do not get better, do not self-medicate. See a doctor as soon as possible. In some cases, diarrhea requires serious drug therapy, and delay can be dangerous to health and even life.

How to treat diarrhea at home

And if the general state of health is in order and episodes of diarrhea are repeated no more than three to four times a day, you can cope with the malaise with folk remedies.

You can treat diarrhea with pomegranate peel . It needs to be crushed and poured, based on the proportion of a tablespoon of the mass for one glass of boiling water. After fifteen to twenty minutes, when the mixture is infused and the water changes color, strain the resulting liquid and drink it. As a rule, improvement occurs after a single use of this remedy, but to achieve a lasting effect, you can drink an additional portion of the infusion after a few hours.

Pour 150 grams of rice with one and a half liters of cold water.Cook over the lowest heat until cooked through. Then pour the broth into a thermos and drink it hot – half a glass every sixty minutes. For most people, diarrhea disappears from this method within one day.

An effective remedy for diarrhea is viburnum . You can use both the bark and berries of this plant. The method of preparation of the infusion in both cases is approximately the same: you need to pour a tablespoon of raw materials with one glass of boiling water and let it brew. It is best to insist in a thermos for thirty to forty minutes, and then strain.You need to take tea from berries in fifty milliliters four times a day, bark infusion – one tablespoon every hour.

Rinse and dry oats and then grind them in a coffee grinder. Pour three tablespoons of the powder with one glass of boiling water and leave in a thermos for two to three hours. You can take this remedy in one sitting or in small portions every hour.

You can even cope with diarrhea with regular rye bread .Soak a small piece of bread in warm water. After half an hour, drink the resulting infusion, and after six to eight hours, repeat the procedure. This is usually enough for the diarrhea to stop.

A cat has diarrhea what to do at home

Diarrhea in a pet is quite common, but you shouldn’t leave the problem without a solution. Sometimes serious enough problems can become the cause of diarrhea, and this must certainly be found out, and not left to chance.However, if diarrhea torments the cat, you should take care of the pet and try to cure it at home.

How to treat a cat at home for diarrhea

If you have symptoms of indigestion, do not panic right away. If the animal is vaccinated, does not come into contact with other members of the species, then, most likely, the reason is a common intestinal disorder. Stress can also cause illness. The most important thing in any situation is to assess it correctly.

We have prepared a list of medicines that will help alleviate the condition of the pet:

1. Furazalidone – antimicrobial agent.The dosage can be correctly calculated by the therapist, it all depends on a number of factors. Before the appointment, the pet will certainly have to go through all the tests necessary for the diagnosis.
2. Enterofuril – the drug will help eliminate infectious diarrhea in cats. It is best to choose the children’s version of the suspension, it is well absorbed, and it is easier to give it to the pet.
3. Phthalazol is an antimicrobial drug that helps to get rid of dysentery and salmonellosis.For diarrhea in a cat, the drug is given in the following dosage: ¼ part of the tablet is crushed, mixed with water and given to the pet with a syringe. However, if your pet has liver or kidney problems, it is not advisable to give this drug to him.
4. Levomycetin – used to fight large viruses (rickettsia, spirochetes). This drug will be effective only if the instructions are strictly followed, otherwise side effects will occur. It is unacceptable to give the drug to a pregnant animal, as well as in case of liver and kidney disease and fungal diseases.
5. Smecta and activated carbon – remove toxins. They should only be given to cats if the diarrhea is short-lived and with extreme caution, as the drugs can cause constipation.

As can be seen, “human” preparations can be used to treat cats. However, it is strongly discouraged to self-medicate; in any case, it should be done only after the advice of a veterinarian. And of course, it is best to use drugs for animals to treat pets.

It is worth reviewing the diet of a cat during diarrhea. The first day you can not feed him at all, while giving water indefinitely. Every other day, you can gradually introduce food, reducing the portion size by at least half, but the diet should contain easily digestible, low-fat food.

Probiotics that normalize the intestinal microflora.

Rotavirus infection, treatment | H-Clinic

11.12.2019

Rotavirus infection is an acute viral infection of the gastrointestinal tract, which clinically manifests itself in the form of gastroenteritis and may be accompanied by damage to the respiratory system, and therefore it is also called intestinal flu.Rotavirus affects both children and adults, but in adults, the disease is more often mild or asymptomatic. The main clinical manifestations of the disease in adults are nausea, loss of appetite, and cramping abdominal pain. At the same time, the presence of diarrhea in an adult patient is not as dangerous as in children. In children and the elderly, rotavirus gastroenteritis can lead to significant dehydration and even death.

Globally, rotavirus causes about 125 million cases of childhood diarrhea each year and is the leading cause of dehydration.More than 2 million children are hospitalized annually due to rotavirus gastroenteritis and about 500 thousand. die of this disease.

It is estimated that virtually every child in the world is infected with rotavirus between the ages of 3 and 5. In low-income countries, the average age at incidence of children is 6 to 9 months, and 80% of rotavirus infections develop before the age of one year. In high-income countries, the incidence is slightly delayed – from 2 to 5 years and 65% develop the disease before the age of one year.

An infectious disease doctor is involved in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with rotavirus gastroenteritis. But when the first symptoms of the disease appear, people usually go to a family doctor, to a pediatrician in case of a child’s illness, or call an ambulance. It is important to recognize early signs of dehydration, especially in young children, and promptly initiate adequate treatment.

Until the seventies of the twentieth century, the cause of intestinal infections was established only in 30% of cases.In 1973, Ruth Bishop and colleagues isolated and, using electron microscopy, described viral particles from intestinal tissue in children with clinical gastroenteritis. They were called rotaviruses – for their characteristic appearance, resembling a wheel (rota is Latin for a wheel).

The causative agent of rotavirus gastroenteritis is a virus from the Rotavirus order, Reoviridae family.

The virion is a 2-stranded fragmented RNA of 11 fragments, which is contained within a 3-layer capsid.

Thanks to its three-layer coating, the virus is resistant to the environment. It can remain viable for up to several hours on the hands, and on dry hard surfaces up to several weeks or even months if disinfectants have not been used.

Rotavirus enters the body through the mouth and the virus multiplies in the small intestine, which in turn leads to impaired absorption of sodium, glucose, water, a decrease in the activity of lactase, alkaline phosphatase and sucrase, and as a result to the occurrence of isotonic diarrhea, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance and metabolic acidosis.

The immune response is not fully understood. An important role in the immune defense of the body, as well as in recovery from the disease, is played by antibodies circulating in the plasma and in the mucous membranes, developed in response to the introduction of the virus.

A child who has had rotavirus gastroenteritis does not have lifelong persistent immunity and re-infection is possible at any age. With each subsequent infection, the immune defense is higher, and the clinical manifestations of the disease are becoming more mild.

The virus is highly contagious, spreads easily from person to person, and spreads in families, kindergartens and hospitals. Both adults and children with clinical manifestations and those with asymptomatic disease can spread the virus. Children between 4 and 24 months of age are at greatest risk of contracting rotavirus. Adults can become infected when caring for an infected child.

The reservoir of infection is the patient’s gastrointestinal tract. The transmission mechanism is fecal-oral, the transmission is realized if:

• hygiene norms and rules (frequency and quality) of hand washing are not observed;

• a person touches his mouth after touching an object (diaper, toy) contaminated with contaminated feces;

• eat food or drinking water contaminated with the virus (rare).

The largest amount of the virus in the biomaterial is detected 2 days before the onset of symptoms of the disease and persists up to 10 days after their disappearance.

It is worth noting that immunocompromised individuals can spread the virus for much longer, since the virus can be detected in their feces for up to 30 days after recovery.

Basically, the incidence is seasonal – in the autumn-winter period. The incubation period for the development of the disease is rather short – less than 48 hours.

Clinical manifestations vary, depending on whether it is the first infection or the second. Thus, the course of the disease may be asymptomatic, may be limited to mild diarrheal syndrome, and may manifest as severe diarrhea leading to dehydration, accompanied by fever and vomiting. The most severe course of the disease is observed with the primary infection of children during the first 6 months of life. In one third of children with rotavirus infection, the disease is accompanied by a high fever up to 39C.

When interviewed, patients often mention recent contact with a sick person.

The most common symptoms are:

• decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting

• fever

• watery stools without blood, diarrhea can lead to dehydration

• stomach ache

Physical examination reveals no noticeable symptoms, with the exception of symptoms that may be associated with the development of dehydration: lethargy, decreased urine output, lack of tears when crying, dry cold skin, dry mucous membranes in the mouth, sunken eyes or fontanelle, severe thirst.

Gastrointestinal symptoms (vomiting and diarrhea) resolve within 3-7 days. In people with immunodeficiency states, the disease can become severe and persistent with the further development of multiple organ lesions.

The clinical manifestations of the disease are rather nonspecific, therefore, laboratory testing is required to confirm the diagnosis.

Laboratory diagnosis of rotavirus infection is based on the detection of specific antigens of the virus in stool samples.

The main method used for this purpose is ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) – the use of specialized commercial test systems that detect antigens in the test material on average within 5 days from the onset of the disease.

Electron microscopy, PCR techniques can also be used. In 2/3 of all children with gastroenteritis of rotavirus etiology of severe course, rotavirus antigen can be detected in blood plasma 3-7 days from the onset of the disease, but now only fecal samples are used in routine practice.

There is no specific treatment for rotavirus gastroenteritis. It should be noted that rehydration, symptomatic therapy is indicated and antibacterial therapy is contraindicated, since antibacterial drugs are useless in the fight against viruses, but can contribute to the further progression of intestinal dysbiosis and as a result of a worsening of the patient’s condition.

The basis of therapy is an adequate replenishment of water and electrolyte balance – mainly due to oral rehydration – for this purpose, you can use the drug “Regidron” – dilute 1 packet in 1 liter of cold boiled water, take 5-100 ml fractionally every 3-5 minutes for 3-5 hours.The drug is contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity and diabetes mellitus, renal failure, the cost of a pack of 20 sachets is 370-400 rubles. You can also use home methods for preparing rehydration solutions – water with the addition of salt (at the rate of 1 teaspoon of table salt per 1 liter of water), sometimes with the addition of soda and sugar.

Antiemetic drugs are used in a limited way and only as directed by the attending physician. Antidiarrheal drugs can be used for prolonged episodes of diarrhea, also strictly as directed by the doctor.

Antipyretic drugs can be used for fever above 38.5C (it is not recommended to bring down the temperature to these figures if the child tolerates it normally, since an increase in body temperature indicates an active fight of the body against infection – during a fever, antibody production is activated, the process of phagocytosis is accelerated, etc. etc.) – these are drugs such as “Panadol”, “Nurofen”, “Tsefekon” – as prescribed by a doctor.

In severe cases of the disease and signs of dehydration, hospitalization and intravenous rehydration infusion therapy are indicated.

The diet for adults with illness involves the exclusion of dairy products, caffeine-containing drinks, fatty and fried, and canned foods.

After stopping the acute period, when the child refuses to eat and only adequate rehydration is important, children are recommended: soy-based mixtures, diet soft food – cereals with lactose-free milk or water, grated vegetable soups, lean meat, boiled or stewed vegetables, baked apples, jelly, rosehip decoctions, dried fruit compotes.

If there are cases in kindergarten, it is necessary to separate children with symptoms from children without symptoms, the care staff should be different for both groups.

It is advisable to use alcohol-based hand products – sanitizers or wipes.

Practicing good hygiene and hand washing is an important factor in preventing the transmission of rotavirus infection, but this is not always enough. Currently, one of the main methods of specific prevention of rotavirus gastroenteritis is vaccination.Since the introduction of vaccines, the incidence of rotavirus has significantly decreased not only among children under 5 years of age, but also among older people.

Vaccines induce the development of immune defenses, as they are composed of microorganisms and cellular components that stimulate the production of antibodies with certain protective properties.

In February 2006, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the RotaTeq vaccine.

RotaTeq is a pentavalent vaccine that contains 5 strains of rotavirus (G1-4 and A) and P1A protein (genotype P). Vaccination regimen – 3 separate doses in the form of oral drops are administered at the age of 2, 4, 6 months.

In 2008, they approved Rotarix (another oral vaccine) – protects against gastroenteritis caused by G1, G3, G4, G9 strains and is prescribed 2 doses at the age of 6 to 24 weeks.

Clinical trials have shown that each vaccine prevents 74-78% of all gastroenteritis caused by rotavirus and virtually all hospitalizations due to rotavirus gastroenteritis.The minimum recommended age for vaccination is 6 weeks. The minimum interval between doses is 4 weeks, the maximum is 8 months. The full course of vaccination is recommended to be completed by age 16 weeks of life and must be completed by 24 weeks (6 months).

Breastfeeding can continue as usual before and after the rotavirus vaccination.

The RV5 vaccine (RotaTek) is currently registered and approved for use in Russia.The World Health Organization recommends introducing rotavirus vaccination into the National Vaccination Schedule and considering this method of prevention as a priority. Such work (vaccination of infants in polyclinics) is already being carried out in some regions of our country.

Author: Doctor of the University Clinic H-Clinic Konovalova Anastasia Aleksandrovna

Medical Editor: Head of the University Clinic, Ph.MD, infectious disease doctor Konnov Danila Sergeevich

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90,000 reasons, tips and tricks for poultry farmers

The quality of a hen’s droppings is an important indicator of their health. Changes in droppings indicate a digestive disorder caused by infection or poor quality feed. The method of treating diarrhea in chickens depends on the causes of its occurrence. Therefore, first of all, it is necessary to determine how the bird droppings have changed and then decide how to save the chickens from diarrhea.

Contents of article

Signs of diarrhea in chickens

The development of diarrhea in chickens is easy to diagnose. Looking at chicken droppings, you can immediately notice changes in its color and consistency. In addition to these signs, you can notice a decrease in bird activity, general weakness, and a decrease in appetite.

Changes in droppings indicate a digestive disorder or infection.

Having found in the poultry house liquid droppings of an uncharacteristic color or mixed with mucus, blood, gas bubbles, undigested particles, it is worth carefully examining all the birds. Dirty plumage can be found around the cloaca in a hen with diarrhea. Stained eggs appear in the nests of laying hens with diarrhea.

Causes of diarrhea

Having noticed changes in the droppings, the owner needs to determine the cause of the chicken’s digestive disorders. The causes of the disorder can be different: both poisoning with poor-quality food or the penetration of an infection into the body, as well as a sign of other diseases.

Food poisoning

Ingestion of poor-quality or uncharacteristic food for the usual diet of poultry is the most common cause of diarrhea in chickens.

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The chicken organism can react for the following reasons:

Infectious diseases causing diarrhea

Almost all infectious diseases in birds are accompanied by diarrhea.

With infection, chickens may have diarrhea mixed with blood.

The quality of the manure can be used to diagnose the type of infection that affected the bird:

• Nycastle disease – brown diarrhea mixed with mucus.
• Colibacillosis – often causes diarrhea in broilers.In addition to other symptoms of the disease, chickens develop yellow diarrhea, sometimes mixed with blood. The reason for this color is damage to the liver of chickens.
• Coccidiosis is a disease caused by the invasion of intestinal parasites. In chickens, bloody diarrhea of ​​a brownish or chocolate color begins. The stool is liquid.
• Pasteurellosis – green diarrhea with bloody impurities and mucus.
• Clostridiosis – black diarrhea with gas bubbles and an offensive odor.

Other causes of diarrhea

In some cases, diarrhea can develop for other reasons:

• Pullorosis. White bacillary diarrhea is an infectious disease caused by E. coli. Salmonella pullorum and salmonella galinarum are dangerous bacteria that, if they enter the chicken coop, can cause white bacillary diarrhea in all poultry.
  Broiler chickens often suffer from pullorosis.

  Bacteria are transmitted along a chain from one chicken to another, remaining on all objects in the chicken coop. Escherichia coli are especially dangerous for chickens and young animals. Chickens die without treatment in 4-7 days.

• Worms. Infestation of helminths causes severe damage to the bird’s body. Most often, breeds that receive animal food are infected with worms: Leghorn, Bielefelder. In the presence of worms in the chicken, yellow diarrhea begins, since the parasites negatively affect the bird’s liver. Simultaneously with diarrhea, chickens begin to lose weight, stop rushing, lose their appetite.
• Stress. A stressful situation is a common cause of diarrhea in any living creature. In this case, the stool becomes liquid, but the color does not change.Sometimes stressful situations cause green diarrhea. Stress-related diarrhea is most common in shy breeds such as Ayam-Tsemani. Such diarrhea is the only case when a bird can be cured without any medication. Chickens need to create a calm environment.
• Avitaminosis. Lack of vitamins as a cause of loose stools in chickens occurs in early spring. It is worth adding vitamin and mineral components to the feed, and the digestion of birds is normalized.

Methods for the treatment of diarrhea in chickens

Diarrhea in chickens requires immediate intervention from the owner.Delay can lead to unpleasant consequences and even complete loss of all birds.

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First of all, it is necessary to resettle sick individuals from the rest of the herd. If the sick chicken continues to live and feed with the rest, the infection will spread and the disease will affect the entire bird.

With diarrhea, chickens add several crystals of manganese to the water.

For any type of diarrhea, it is necessary to immediately prevent dehydration. During diarrhea, the body of the bird dramatically loses fluid, so the chickens need to begin to water abundantly.You need to add a decoction of rice or oatmeal to the water. Adding potassium permanganate to drinking helps well.

Treatment of diarrhea in chickens consists of several stages:

• Taking antibiotics. Enrofloxacin, Tetracycline, Doxycycline, Levomethicin, Furazolidone are added to the feed within 3-5 days. Complex aqueous solutions of Avidox, Quincol, Trisulfon, Dolink, Enrocoli give a good effect. You can decide what to give chickens for diarrhea by consulting your veterinarian.
• Restoration of intestinal microflora.After treatment with antibiotics, chickens need to restore digestion. Birds begin to be fed with Bifidumbacterin, Monosporin, Acylact, Lactobacterin preparations. Feeding with curdled milk and milk whey helps well.
• Increased immunity. Water solutions of vitamins, which are given within a week, and vitamin premixes added to feed (10-14 days) will help to support the body of a bird weakened by diarrhea. The drugs Chiktonik, Vitaminol, Hydrorexvital have proven themselves well.

To restore the intestinal microflora, the drug Lactobacterin is used.

Important. Experts do not recommend giving chickens sweet solutions with added sugar or glucose after diarrhea. This can provoke the growth of pathogenic intestinal microflora and aggravate the situation.

If the chicken is poisoned

In case of food poisoning, the first step is to identify and eliminate the cause. First aid is provided by adsorbents: activated carbon, wood ash. These substances will help neutralize toxins that have entered the intestines.

An additional cleaning and disinfecting agent is a weak solution of potassium permanganate.The chicken can also be served with oat broth with a few drops of red wine. Wine will have an astringent effect and will stop diarrhea.

The remains of the infection are treated with chloramphenicol (5 tablets per liter of water) with biseptol (one eighth of a tablet for one chicken twice a day. As a rule, the chicken’s condition returns to normal within a week.

How to treat pullorosis

Pullorosis is a serious disease requiring veterinary intervention. Most often, experts recommend getting rid of a sick chicken, and treating the entire livestock for infection.

In the treatment of pullorosis, the drug Furagin is used according to the scheme.

This is due to the fact that the salmonella that caused the disease is quite persistent and can persist in the chicken coop for a long time. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out a number of preventive measures.

It is necessary to add antibacterial drugs to poultry feed: Furazolidone, Terramycin, Furagin. Treatment is carried out according to the scheme: 2 weeks of treatment, three days off, two weeks of admission. Chickens can be treated for 10 days with Neomycin or Oxytetracycline.The repeated course of treatment with this drug is continued after a three-day break.

If the bird has worms

If helminths are the cause of diarrhea, it is necessary to treat chickens with Tetramisole, Phenothiazine, Fenbendazole. The preparations are added to the feed. After anthelmintic drugs, the intestinal microflora must be restored with the help of probiotics (Flosan, Emprobio).

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Antihelminthic drugs are recommended to be given to chickens periodically, at least twice a year. In combination with keeping the chicken coop clean, this measure will prevent dangerous parasites from breeding in their intestines.

If diarrhea in chickens was caused by worms, they are soldered with Fenbendazole.

Treatment with folk remedies

In the arsenal of folk recipes for the treatment of diseases in chickens, there are many remedies for diarrhea.

Most of them are quite effective and give quick results:

• Clay talker as a drink. It is recommended to add clay to drinking water at the first sign of diarrhea.
• Broth of rice or oats. Also used in place of regular water.
• Decoction of pomegranate peels. It has astringent and antibacterial properties.
• Chamomile decoction. It is added to drinking water for mustard or brown diarrhea within 2-3 days.
• Liquid oatmeal. Has astringent properties and relieves intoxication.

Preventive measures

The basis for the prevention of any disease in poultry is compliance with the standards of its maintenance.Compliance with hygienic requirements in the room and a balanced diet are the key to the health of chickens.

Infection of chickens with various infections and the development of diarrhea against this background occurs if there is dirty and damp litter in the chicken coop, poor ventilation, drafts, cold. Poultry should receive fresh feed with sufficient minerals and vitamins and clean drinking water.

A clean and dry bedding in the paddock and poultry house is the main preventive measure against diarrhea.

Sanitary standards must be observed during free range of poultry.The place where chickens walk must also be kept clean.

Poultry diseases accompanied by diarrhea can cause significant damage to the chicken population. With some infections, a sick individual should be slaughtered in order to prevent the spread of infection, and preventive measures should be taken in the chicken coop.

90,000 Drug-Free Treatment – American Medical Clinic

Chronic colitis is a disease characterized by the appearance of dull pain in the abdomen.They can be localized in different areas. Most often, painful sensations are disturbed immediately after a meal. The passage of gases and timely bowel movements help to eliminate them for a while. In chronic colitis, drugs are prescribed that do not always cope with the disease. According to folk recipes, you can prepare remedies that take care of the intestines and eliminate pain.

Folk recipes for eliminating pain in the intestines

Infusion of flax

Flax seeds are able to envelop the intestinal surface, creating a protective film, eliminating discomfort and preventing the development of constipation.It is necessary to prepare an infusion from seeds immediately before use. For 200 ml of water, it is enough to take 1 teaspoon of flax. You do not need to boil the mixture, you just need to bring it to a boil. Leave the mass for 10 minutes. The filtered liquid, reminiscent of jelly, is best drunk on an empty stomach.

Tincture of calendula

The usual tincture of calendula, which is bought at the pharmacy, can be used for chronic colitis. The flowers of the plant contain substances that can heal microtrauma and destroy infection.At one time, 30 drops of tincture are enough. It can be diluted in a spoonful of water. It is advisable to drink the medicine before meals.

Seaweed

Powder is prepared from dry seaweed. It swells when it enters the intestines. As a result, the process of passing feces is accelerated. This is especially useful for colitis accompanied by constipation. You need to consume the powder before bedtime, 0.5 teaspoon, wash it down with water. Carry out the treatment within a month. If necessary, the dose is slightly increased.

Watermelon peel tea

An excellent remedy for chronic colitis is watermelon rind tea. They are pre-crushed and dried. In the morning, a drink is prepared from 100 g of raw materials and 0.5 liters of boiled water. When it is infused a little, you can drink it warm in half a glass. All watermelon tea should be drunk in a day.

Warm sand

When the acute period has passed, you can warm up the stomach with sand. It is heated in the oven to about 55 °, poured into a bag, which is applied to a sore spot for half an hour.To make the sand cool more slowly, cover the bag with a warm towel on top. To obtain a positive effect, it is necessary to carry out at least 10 procedures.

Abdominal gymnastics

To improve bowel function and get rid of constipation, to alleviate the course of the disease, ordinary gymnastics will help. You need to do it while lying down. Lie on your back, stretch the left leg, pull the right leg to the stomach, press firmly. Then throw out your right leg with a sharp forward movement, while simultaneously pressing the left to you.Repeat up to 10 times.

It will not be possible to get rid of chronic colitis forever, but with the help of alternative methods of treatment, you can ease the course of the disease and reduce the risk of exacerbations.