Diarrhoea: What it is & How to Treat it
Diarrhoea is the passing of watery stools more than three times a day. Although not a disease itself, diarrhoea is a sign of many different ailments including stomach upset or obstruction. It can with no trouble lead to dehydration, as the body does not have adequate fluid to function properly.
Diarrhoea can be especially dangerous for babies, young children and the elderly. The condition can be passed from person to person as a result of poor personal hygiene. Thankfully in most instances diarrhoea be treated safely at home and normally disappears on its own accord within a week.
Diarrhoea is a vital part of the body’s defence mechanism. The condition allows your digestive system to eliminate whatever it is that is making you ill. Anything from a semi-loose to a completely liquid stool constitutes diarrhoea. More frequent and urgent trips to the toilet are the likely outcomes of diarrhoea.
Diarrhoea is often accompanied by feeling sick, vomiting, a lack of appetite, stomach pains, and a bloated stomach. Wind and headache may also be present. Diarrhoea can also be associated with irritable bowel syndrome.
Diarrhoea can have many different causes. Bacterial and viral infections and food poisoning are the main causes of diarrhoea. Some medications, antibiotics in particular, can also cause watery stools.
In the case of antibiotics, diarrhoea can develop up to a month after taking the medication. It is easy to spread diarrhoea from person to person, especially if hygiene is lacking. For example, it is important for someone who has diarrhoea to wash their hands when preparing food.
Diarrhoea will usually to go away without any special treatment, It is important however to replace lost fluids, usually by drinking water in small amounts. Home treatment programs are available. Oral re-hydration salts and electrolyte drinks can also be used to re-hydrate. Avoid your regular foods until your diarrhoea has settled down.
There are occasions when diarrhoea will not go away by itself. If diarrhoea continues for days or is accompanied by severe dehydration, bleeding, severe pain, fainting, and high fevers you should consult with a doctor immediately.
Children and the elderly in particular are at risk if too much fluid is lost and not replaced quickly. A brief course of antibiotics may be prescribed for the treatment of severe diarrhoea.
