Diarrhea - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Diarrhea is the repeated passage of unformed, watery stools- Is only a symptom. It Is common with "intestinal flu" or other viral disease of the intestinal tract. It can also be brought on by excessive alcoho lintake, overindulgence in food, or emotional upset. Diarrhea often means more-frequent trips to the toilet and a greater volume of stool. Some common causes of loose, watery stools and abdominal cramps are infections from viruses, bacteria or parasite. unusual colors or consistencies, create an uncomfortable condition that usually stops by itself. Work through this chart to make sure the diarrhea doesn't need immediate attention.

Diarrhea is the most common problem but prolonged diarrhea can be a sign of other problems. Diarrhea means the body lacks enough fluid to function properly. diarrhea is the most common cause of death amng infants , killing more than 1.5 million per year. The loose-stool consistency that characterizes diarrhea usually lasts a few days at most.People with diarrhea may pass more than a quart of stool a day. Usually, diarrhea doesn't last long and can be treated readily at home. Because diarrhea can dehydrate, increase your intake of water and other fluids. Applesauce may help. So, too, a tablespoon of kaopectate after each movement.

Diarrhea is one of the most common illnesses in all age groups and is second only to the common cold as a cause of lost days of work or school. It is estimated that there are almost 100 million cases of acute diarrhea per year in adults in the US. Many people will have diarrhea once or twice each year. It typically lasts two to three days and can be treated with over-the-counter medicines. If diarrhea lasts more than a day or two, check with a physician. It may possibly indicate an ulcer, colitis, or other digestive tract disease. Diarrhea changes in frequency of bowel movements and looseness of stools can vary independently of each other, changes usually occur in both. Diarrhea is the increase the Frequecy of bowal movement and decrease form of the stool.Diarrhea can come on suddenly, run its course, and be helped with home care to prevent complications such as dehydration.

Causes of the diarrhea

Common causes of the diarrhea are as following:

Diarrhea may be caused by a temporary problem, like an infection, or a chronic problem, like an intestinal disease. A few of the more common causes of diarrhea are as the following

• Bacterial infections :- consumed through contaminated food or water, can cause diarrhea
• Food intolerances . Some people are unable to digest some component of food, such as lactose, the sugar found in milk
• People who visit foreign countries are at risk for traveler's diarrhea, which is caused by eating food or drinking water contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or, sometimes, parasites.
• Diarrhea occurs when insufficient fluid is absorbed by the colon .
• Diarrhea is most commonly caused by viral infections or bacterial toxins
• Diarrhea can also be caused by dairy intake in those who are lactose intolerant
• Ischaemi bowel disease . This usually affects older people and can be due to blocked arteries.
• Alcohol:-Consumption of alcohol affects the body's capability to absorb water
• Hyperthyroidism
• Some cancers
• Laxative abuse
• Alcohol abuse

Symptoms of the Diarrhea

Common sign and symptoms are :

1) Diarrhea may be accompanied by cramping abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, or an urgent need to use the bathroom.

2) Chronic diarrhea lasts more than 4 weeks and is usually related to functional disorders like irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel diseases like celiac disease.

3) Nausea and vomiting

Treatment of Diarrhea

Some treatment and prevention tips to cure Diarrhea are :

• Medicines that stop diarrhea may be helpful in some cases, but they are not recommended for people whose diarrhea is caused by a bacterial infection or parasite-stopping the diarrhea traps the organism in the intestines, prolonging the problem
• Preventing Dehydration :- doctors often recommend a special rehydration solution that contains the nutrients they need. You can buy this solution in the grocery store without a prescription
• Oral rehydration therapy : Taking a sugar/salt solution, which can be absorbed by the body.
• Antibiotics : antibiotics may be required if a bacterial cause is suspected and the patient is medically ill .
• Dietary manipulation:- in particular, patients with celiac disease should avoid wheat products
• A common non-pharmaceutical based treatment is to ingest only clear liquids
• Prevention is a matter of good hygiene. Always wash your hands before preparing your own food or for others.