Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a common problem that occurs in adults and children. Diarrhea is defined as unusually loose, watery stools that occur more than three times each day. Depending on the cause, it may be accomplished by nausea, vomiting, bloating, abdominal pain, headache, fever, chills and fatigue.

Many things can cause acute diarrhea including food tolerance and bacterial or viral infections. Diarrhea may also be caused by stress, anxiety, or a rapid increase in the amount of fiber in the diet. It is also a side of many medications, especially antibiotics.

Diarrhea that lasts more than 14 days, or recurs frequently, is considered to be chronic and may be due to bowel conditions including irritable bowel syndrome and ulcerative colitis, for example. If untreated, diarrhea can lead to dehydration, which is marked by extreme thirst, weakness, lightheadedness and a dry mouth and tongue. When a person is dehydrated, their body cannot function properly because of the lack of fluid and salts.

Treatment of diarrhea is especially important in children, the elderly and those with chronic medial conditions. It is important to give a mixture of water, salt and sugar ('oral rehydration solutions') rather than water alone. The sugar and salt help the body absorb the water. Commercial oral rehydration solutions (e.g., Gastrolyte, Pedialyte) can be purchased in a pharmacy or can be made at home. Fruit juices, soft drinks and sweetened tea that contain only added sugar are not helpful in treating diarrhea, and their high sugar content may actually worsen the condition. Whichever oral rehydration solution is chosen, it should be given frequently to ensure that rehydration occurs.

When giving oral rehydration solutions to children with diarrhea, all other food and drink should be withheld with the exception of breast milk. The child's normal diet may usually be resumed within one to two days.

Your pharmacist is trained to assess and refer people with diarrhea, and can also provide advice on non prescription medications used to treat the condition.

Consult a doctor if diarrhea lasts longer than two days, fluids cannot be kept down, diarrhea is accompanied by a high fever (>38.5 degrees C), severe belly pain or if the diarrhea is bloody. Children younger than six months, those with signs of dehydration, or those who have been vomiting for more than four to six hours should see a physician promptly.

For more information visit www.mayoclinic.com