Diarrhea

What is Diarrhea?

Diarrhea is a digestive condition characterized by loose, watery stools occurring more frequently than normal. It can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term) and may be accompanied by other gastrointestinal symptoms.

Types of Diarrhea

1. Acute Diarrhea:

• Lasts less than 14 days

• Often caused by infections

• Usually self-limiting

2. Chronic Diarrhea:

• Persists for more than 4 weeks

• May indicate underlying medical conditions

• Requires medical evaluation

Common Causes

• Viral infections

• Bacterial infections

• Food intolerances

• Inflammatory bowel disease

• Celiac disease

• Medications

• Stress

Symptoms

• Frequent loose, watery stools

• Abdominal cramps

• Urgency to have bowel movements

• Nausea

• Dehydration signs:

1. Thirst

2. Dark urine

3. Dizziness

4. Fatigue

Treatment Approaches

• Fluid and electrolyte replacement

• Dietary modifications:

1. BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast)

2. Avoiding trigger foods

3. Small, frequent meals

• Medications:

1. Anti-diarrheal medicines

2. Antibiotics when bacterial infection is present

3. Probiotics

When to Seek Medical Care

• Severe abdominal pain

• Blood in stool

• High fever

• Signs of severe dehydration

• Diarrhea lasting more than 3 days

Prevention Strategies

• Proper hand hygiene

• Safe food handling practices

• Clean drinking water

• Regular exercise

• Stress management