Diarrhea

Dealing with diarrhea

Almost everyone has had to deal with diarrhea at one time or another. Loose, watery stools and abdominal cramps characterize diarrhea (also spelled diarrhoea) and generally last a couple of days. Diarrhea often means more frequent trips to the toilet and a greater volume of stool. It can occur in conjunction with a variety of illnesses and conditions or on its own.

Diarrhea is usually not life threatening, but it can cause dehydration, which is life threatening, if not properly treated. Prolonged or recurring diarrhea should be addressed with a medical professional, since it may be a sign of a more serious disease.

Causes of Diarrhea

Diarrhea occurs when the foods and fluids you ingest pass through the colon too quickly and are not properly absorbed, leaving behind a watery stool. This usually happens because the lining of the colon is inflamed or diseased, making it less able to absorb fluids.

Common viruses that cause diarrhea are the Norwalk virus, cytomegalovirus, viral hepatitis and the herpes simplex virus. Contaminated food or water can transmit bacteria and parasites to the body, which can also cause diarrhea. Other causes can include sensitivity to lactose, fructose or artificial sweeteners, surgery or gallbladder removal.

Chronic diarrhea can be a sign of a much worse digestive disorder, such as Crohns disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease or irritable bowel syndrome.

Treating Diarrhea

In most cases, diarrhea will clear on its own within a couple of days. During this time, one can treat it at home. (Note that it is recommended that you seek advice from your pediatrician before treating infant diarrhea.)

Diarrhea treatment will include replacing the fluids that have been lost. Ideally, the fluid replacements should contain an electrolyte mixture. Electrolytes are often lost through diarrhea and are important to replace because they maintain the electric currents that keep your heart beating.

There are several over-the-counter diarrhea medications you can take to help relieve cramping and regulate bowel movements. In cases of bacterial and parasite-induced diarrhea, a doctor can prescribe antibiotic medication.