When you have loose and watery bowel motions, it may be possible that you are suffering from diarrhoea. It's rather common and usually not dangerous.
Many people get diarrhoea several times a year. It usually lasts two to three days. Some people experience it more frequently. This could be due to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or another illness.
"Diarrhoea is a condition in which an individual has loose, watery stools and more frequent bowel movements than usual, which can cause severe dehydration in the body," explained Manpreet Kalra, Dietitian, Founder and Director - Nutriapt Healthcare Private Limited. She went on to say that excessive heat and temperature, as well as dehydration, can cause this.
Diarrhoea
Diarrhoea is distinguished by frequent, loose, and watery faeces that might leave you feeling exhausted and uneasy. Your digestive system, which is normally quite good at breaking down food and absorbing nutrients, decides to go into overdrive, resulting in a faster transit time for waste products.
Also read: Suffering From Diarrhea? These 9 Types Of Teas Can Cure Diarrhoea
Causes of Diarrhoea
There's a myriad of reasons behind the infamous stomach upset:
- Illnesses: Bacterial, viral, or parasitic illnesses can cause gastrointestinal irritation and diarrhoea.
- Consuming contaminated food or water can cause acute diarrhoea and other symptoms.
- Medications: As per research, medications, particularly antibiotics, might upset the balance of your intestinal bacteria, resulting in diarrhoea.
- Dietary Factors: Eating foods high in artificial sweeteners, too much coffee, or foods that are extremely hot can irritate your intestines.
- Chronic diarrhoea can be caused by underlying conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, and celiac disease.
Spotting the Symptoms
Diarrhoea isn't just about the frequent trips to the bathroom. Here's what you might experience:
- Watery Stools: The hallmark sign of diarrhoea – loose and watery stools that can be difficult to control.
- Abdominal Discomfort: Cramps and discomfort in your belly might accompany diarrhoea.
- Urgency: The sudden and urgent need to use the bathroom is a common symptom.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Some cases of diarrhoea bring along nausea and the unpleasant possibility of vomiting.
- How To Deal With Diarrhoea
Management Of Diarrhoea
When diarrhoea pays an unexpected visit, here's how you can manage the situation:
Hydration is Vital
Diarrhoea can lead to dehydration due to fluid loss. Drink clear fluids like water, clear broths, and oral rehydration solutions.
The BRAT Diet
According to clinical nutritionist Ms. Shilpa Singh from Fatima Hospital, Lucknow, BRAT diet which is a basic short form of Bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast are teh gentle foods that can help settle your stomach and provide nutrients.
Ease Up on Diet
Avoid fatty, greasy, and spicy foods that might further irritate your gut.
Rest Up
Your body is dealing with something, so give it the rest it deserves.
Know When to Seek Help
If diarrhoea persists for more than a couple of days, is accompanied by blood in stool, high fever, or severe abdominal pain, consult a medical professional.
Prevention Is Important
While you can't predict every bout of diarrhoea, adopting healthy habits can lower your risk:
- Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly to prevent the spread of infections.
- Eat Properly Cooked Food: Properly cook and store your food to avoid foodborne illnesses.
- Stay Hydrated: Keep yourself well-hydrated to maintain the balance of fluids in your body.
- Balanced Diet: Eat a diet rich in fibre, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to promote healthy digestion.
- Stress can impact your digestive system, so find healthy ways to manage it.
Remember, diarrhoea might be uncomfortable, but it's often a temporary setback. By staying informed and taking good care of yourself, you'll be better equipped to better equipped to take care of yourself.