Diarrhea involves watery and loose bowel movements. This is considered as a prevalent condition and not considered serious. Many individuals suffer at least 1-2 episodes of diarrhea in a year which usually lasts 2-3 days but can be readily managed with over-the-counter medications.
There are some cases where medical care is required since diarrhea can rapidly deplete the water supply and salts in the body that the tissues require for normal functioning. The elderly and sick individuals might have difficulty replacing these lost fluids. If diarrhea lasts for several weeks or streaked with blood, it indicates a serious condition.
Symptoms of diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps or bloating
In severe cases, other symptoms are present such as fever, severe pain, dehydration or weight loss as well as blood, mucus or undigested food present in the stool. - Watery stool
- Loose or thin stools
- Urge to have a bowel movement
- Nausea and vomiting (in some cases)
In severe cases, other symptoms are present such as fever, severe pain, dehydration or weight loss as well as blood, mucus or undigested food present in the stool. Always bear in mind that severe cases might indicate a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. A doctor should be consulted if the individual has prolonged diarrhea or fever that persists more than 24 hours. In addition, a doctor must be seen if vomiting prevents the individual from drinking liquids to replace any fluids lost.
What are the causes?
The usual cause of diarrhea is a virus that infects the bowel. In most cases, the infection can last for 2 days and oftentimes called the “intestinal flu”. Other causes include the following:
- Medications
- Infection by bacteria or other organisms
- Allergies to certain foods
- Foods the upset the digestive tract
- Radiation therapy
Management of diarrhea
Once an individual has mild diarrhea, it can be managed with over-the-counter medications such as Imodium and Pepto-Bismol. These are available as tablets or in liquid form.
There are also measures when managing diarrhea without any medications such as the following:
- Increase the intake of fluids to 2-3 liters daily as tolerated or try sipping small amounts throughout the day. Opt for diluted fruit juices, oral rehydration drinks and broths. In addition, drink liquids in between meals instead with meals.
- Try low-fiber foods such as rice, potatoes, ripe bananas, noodles, white bread, applesauce, chicken or turkey without skin, smooth peanut butter, fish, lean ground beef, cottage cheese or yogurt.
- Avoid fatty, greasy or fried foods as well as whole-grain cereals and breads, strong spices and raw fruits and vegetables.
- Limit beverages or foods that contain caffeine such as coffee, chocolate, strong tea and some sodas.
- If the individual is currently using antibiotics, you have to add yogurt with active cultures to the diet.
- If the individual suffers from cramping with diarrhea, avoid gas-forming foods and beverages such as cabbage, beans, carbonated beverages and beer.
Once the rectal area becomes sore due to the frequent episodes of bowel movement or if there is burning, itchiness or pain during bowel movement, the individual can sit in a few inches of warm water in a bathtub. Pat the area dry using a soft towel. In addition, you can apply petroleum jelly to the anus.