5 Must-know Facts About Diarrhea

Diarrhea can be easily treated if the symptoms are noticed in time along with the help of oral re-hydration solutions, and if need be, intravenous fluids. To help do just that, here are some crucial must-know facts about diarrhea.

1. Diarrhea is not a disease, but a symptom. Frequent loss of fluids from the body, may be linked to a host of other complications. A person is supposed to have diarrhea, when he or she faces an increase in bowel movements, when compared to that person's usual pattern. It is often accompanied by other symptoms, such as vomiting, stomach pain, fever and loss of appetite. A person suffering from diarrhea should visit a doctor.
2. Even though it is generally seen that many germs - bacteria, virus and parasites - lead to diarrhea, sometimes a person can have diarrhea even without an infection. Such diarrhea can be caused by certain medication, food allergies, chronic diseases or food additives. One might get diarrhea because of poor digestion, especially of lactose or certain fats or carbohydrates. Also note that diarrhea is not always caused by not eating proper food, it can also be caused by stress or turmoil.
3. One might suffer from loose and watery stools, but in diarrhea one may also urinate less. One can suffer from a feeling of bloating, nausea, and abdominal cramping. Please note that if diarrhea lasts for more than 48 hours or you have a fever of 38.5 degree Celsius, then one must see the doctor immediately as these are the signs of acute diarrhea.
4. The basic goal of treating diarrhea is to get the bowel movements back to normalcy. Prevent yourself from dehydration, and choose home remedies if you think medications are not working for you. But, make sure all this is done in due consultation with your doctor. Excessive dehydration, one of the main symptoms of diarrhea, can lead to kidney damage and electrolyte imbalances in some extreme cases and must be checked by the doctor immediately.
5. The spread of diarrhea can be reduced if children and adults practice good hand washing routines. Make sure you wash your hands especially when you are preparing, serving or eating food. Use an alcohol-based sanitizer to help curb the germs.

Also, one of the most important things to know in order to prevent diarrhea is to not eat contaminated and unhygienic foods. Make sure you boil/cook your food effectively to kill all the germs. Needless to say, washing raw food items before consuming is a must.

Posted in: HEALTH & FITNESS