What Causes Diarrhea

Essential Highlights

• Understanding the basics of diarrhea and its symptoms
• Identifying common causes of diarrhea including infections, medications, and food intolerances
• Recognizing when to seek medical attention for diarrhea
• Preventative measures and home remedies to manage diarrhea symptoms

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Table of Contents

• What is Diarrhea?
• Common Causes of Diarrhea
  • Infections
  • Medications
  • Food Intolerances
  • Chronic Conditions
• When to Seek Medical Attention
• Prevention and Home Remedies
• FAQs

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What is Diarrhea?

Diarrhea is characterized by loose, watery stools and frequent bowel movements. It often accompanies abdominal pain, cramping, and sometimes nausea. Diarrhea can range from a mild, acute condition to a more severe, chronic problem, depending on the underlying cause.

Common Causes of Diarrhea

Infections

Infections are one of the most common causes of diarrhea. These can be:

• Bacterial infections such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter, often contracted through contaminated food or water.
• Viral infections, including Norovirus or Rotavirus, which are highly contagious and spread through physical contact or contaminated surfaces.
• Parasitic infections like Giardia, which can be contracted from drinking contaminated water.

For more information on infectious causes, visit: whatcauses.co.za/diarrhea

Medications

Certain medications can also lead to diarrhea. Common culprits include:

• Antibiotics, which can disturb the natural balance of bacteria in the gut.
• Antacids that contain magnesium.
• Cancer treatments like chemotherapy, which often have diarrhea as a side effect.

Food Intolerances

Food intolerances such as lactose intolerance or gluten intolerance (Celiac disease) commonly cause diarrhea. Consuming food or drinks that your body can’t properly digest leads to an upset stomach and diarrhea.

• Lactose intolerance: The inability to digest lactose, found in dairy products.
• Gluten intolerance: A reaction to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.

Learn more about food intolerances and their symptoms at: whatcauses.co.za/what-causes

Chronic Conditions

Certain chronic conditions can cause persistent diarrhea. These include:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
• Malabsorption syndromes, where the small intestine can’t absorb nutrients properly.

When to Seek Medical Attention

It’s important to know when diarrhea warrants medical attention. If you experience:

• Severe, persistent diarrhea lasting more than two days
• Signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, decreased urination, and dizziness
• Bloody or black stools
• High fever (over 102°F or 39°C)
• Severe abdominal or rectal pain

Seek medical advice promptly.

Consult with a healthcare provider through: CDC’s guide on diarrhea and Mayo Clinic’s professional advice

Prevention and Home Remedies

Preventative measures and home remedies can help manage and reduce the occurrence of diarrhea.

• Maintain good hygiene: Regular handwashing to prevent infections.
• Proper food handling: Cooking food thoroughly and avoiding contaminated water.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids and consider oral rehydration solutions.
• Use probiotics: To help balance gut bacteria.

Explore more preventive measures here: WHO guidelines on diarrhea prevention

FAQs

1. What should I eat when I have diarrhea?

Stick to a bland diet including bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (BRAT diet). Avoid fatty, greasy, and spicy foods.

2. Is diarrhea contagious?

Yes, diarrhea caused by infections can be contagious. Maintain good hygiene to prevent spreading.

3. How long does diarrhea usually last?

Acute diarrhea often lasts 1-2 days. If it persists longer, it might indicate a more serious condition.

4. Can stress cause diarrhea?

Yes, stress is known to trigger diarrhea in some individuals, especially those with IBS.

5. Should I take over-the-counter medications for diarrhea?

Consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication, especially if you have a chronic condition or if symptoms persist.

6. How can I tell if my diarrhea is caused by food poisoning?

Look for symptoms like abdominal cramps, vomiting, and fever within hours of eating the suspect food. Seek medical attention if symptoms are severe.

7. Can dehydration from diarrhea be serious?

Yes, severe dehydration can be life-threatening, especially in children and older adults. Seek medical help if you show signs of severe dehydration.

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This blog strives to provide a comprehensive guide on diarrhea, covering causes, symptom identification, and suggested remedies. Use this information wisely and consult healthcare professionals for personalized medical guidance.