Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a condition in which bowel movements accelerate and become loose and watery. It is commonly seen in both adults and children, and when it is not severe, it can resolve on its own within a few days. When it progresses, it may cause symptoms such as fever or bloody stools. When it appears together with other symptoms, it is important to consult a specialist physician.

Key Takeaways

• Diarrhea is a common digestive issue that occurs when bowel movements accelerate and the stool becomes watery.
• It typically arises due to infection, consumption of spoiled food, or stress, and in most cases resolves on its own within a few days.
• Taking plenty of fluids, consuming light foods, and using probiotics support recovery.
• In cases of fever, severe pain, or bloody stools, a doctor should definitely be consulted.

What is Diarrhea?

Diarrhea is a commonly observed passage of loose, watery stools. While it is sometimes considered the only symptom of an illness, in some cases it is associated with other symptoms such as fever, abdominal pain, or weight loss.

Since diarrhea is a symptom, it generally presents mildly. However, it is also known as a sign of a serious condition. Because it leads to significant fluid loss, the individual must pay attention to adequate nutrition and fluid intake.

Types of Diarrhea

Diarrhea is known by different names depending on how long it lasts:

• Acute diarrhea is watery diarrhea that lasts for one to two days. It is the most common type and does not require treatment.
• Persistent diarrhea is the type of diarrhea that lasts approximately two to four weeks
• If diarrhea persists for more than four weeks, this condition is defined as chronic diarrhea. The diarrhea has a fatty and inflammatory appearance. Sometimes it may result from something you have eaten or from a medication you have taken.

Symptoms of Diarrhea

The most prominent and primary symptom of diarrhea is stool that appears loose and watery. The other common symptoms can be listed as follows:

• Abdominal bloating and cramping
• Constant urge to use the bathroom
• Nausea

The symptoms and signs of severe diarrhea are as follows:

• Fever
• Severe pain
• Vomiting
• Blood or mucus in the stool
• Weight loss

If your child is experiencing signs of dehydration, the following symptoms should also be considered:

• Headache
• Dry skin
• Irritability and confusion
• Severe nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness and a feeling of lightheadedness
• Fatigue
• Dark-colored urine.

What Causes Diarrhea?

The most fundamental cause of diarrhea is gastroenteritis, which is known as the condition that leads to infection of the intestines. In some situations, it is also described as a stomach bug. However, there may be many causes of diarrhea beyond these.

The causes of diarrhea can be listed as follows:

• Infections and pathogens (viruses, bacteria, and parasites) are infections that lead to diarrhea.
• In adults, the most common cause of diarrhea is norovirus, which causes gastroenteritis.
• Rotavirus is the most common cause of acute diarrhea in children.
• Food poisoning
• Medications that are used
• Foods that disrupt your digestive system
• Diseases that affect your intestines
• Procedures performed on your intestines

Can stress cause diarrhea?

When a person is stressed, there is a possibility of developing diarrhea. According to research, in a survey conducted with more than 2,000 individuals experiencing diarrhea, it was revealed that 25% of the participants reported that their diarrhea was caused by nerves and stress.

How to Stop Diarrhea?

Diarrhea occurs due to food-related causes, infection, or stress. With fluid supplementation, proper nutrition, and simple methods, it can be reduced in a short time. The methods that can be applied to stop diarrhea are as follows:

• Drink plenty of water
• Choose light foods such as rice porridge, bananas, and yogurt
• Avoid caffeine and fatty foods
• Use probiotics
• Use anti-diarrheal medications when necessary
• Consult a doctor in cases of severe symptoms.

Diarrhea Treatment

If diarrhea is short-term, it may be possible to recover at home. Over-the-counter medications generally help individuals recover more quickly. When diarrhea does not improve or when severe symptoms are observed, it is important to consult a specialist physician.

The specialist physician may recommend the following types of treatments:

• Antibiotics or antiparasitic medications
• Medications that treat chronic conditions
• Probiotics

What helps with diarrhea?

Against diarrhea, it is necessary to consume fruit juices and plenty of fluids. It is important to avoid caffeine and alcohol. When the stool begins to return to normal, solid and low-fiber foods can be gradually reintroduced.

Frequently Asked Questions About Diarrhea

What to eat when you have diarrhea?

When diarrhea occurs, the term BRAT bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast comes to mind. This diet generally helps firm the stool in individuals experiencing diarrhea.

Which medical department should be consulted for diarrhea?

For diarrhea, the Gastroenterology Department should be consulted. Diagnosis and treatment can be provided within this department.

Why do i have diarrhea?

Some foods and beverages, such as dairy products, coffee, tea, or foods containing artificial sweeteners, cause diarrhea in certain individuals. Medications such as antibiotics, laxatives, magnesium supplements, antidepressants, NSAIDs, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy are also among the causes of diarrhea.

How to get rid of diarrhea?

Consuming plenty of fluids and avoiding caffeine is beneficial for diarrhea. In addition to this, as the stool begins to return to normal, it is also important to gradually introduce low-fiber foods.

How long does diarrhea last?

The duration of diarrhea symptoms may vary depending on the underlying cause. Acute diarrhea ranges from 2 days to 2 weeks. In cases of persistent diarrhea, it ranges between 2 and 4 weeks. Acute and persistent diarrhea are generally caused by bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections.

Is diarrhea a sign of pregnancy?

Diarrhea is not a direct sign of pregnancy. However, it is a symptom that may be observed during the pregnancy process. Gastrointestinal problems are considered normal during pregnancy.

Are diarrhea and menstruation related?

Women experience bloating, abdominal pain, headache, and breast tenderness before the menstrual period. Diarrhea is also a commonly observed symptom during the menstrual period.

What disease occurs when diarrhea and vomiting occur together?

Gastroenteritis is a condition that causes diarrhea and vomiting. It is generally caused by bacterial agents or a stomach bug entering the body.

Is frequent diarrhea a sign of cancer?

In some types of cancer, diarrhea may appear as a symptom. These include colon cancer, lymphoma, thyroid cancer, and pancreatic cancer.

What stops diarrhea fast naturally?

If diarrhea is present, you can benefit from methods that can be applied at home. Along with beverages that contain water, drink tea and plenty of fluids. Avoiding caffeine and alcohol is important at this point.