Introduction of Diarrhea :
If loose stools occur three times or more a day, it is termed Diarrhea or "daira."
Blood during stool passing
If there's blood, mucus, or urgency during bowel movements, it might indicate a gastrointestinal condition. Diarrhea is a symptom with various causes and can be associated with numerous diseases. Each patient has unique triggers, and medication varies for each case.
What is Chronic Diarrhea?
Persistent diarrhea lasting
more than four weeks is termed chronic. Less than two weeks of diarrhea is considered acute, while severe cases involve more than ten bowel movements per day, leading to dehydration,
especially in children and immunocompromised individuals, requiring prompt medical attention.
Symptoms associated with Diarrhea:
See
1. Abdominal pain, cramps, and nausea
2. Frequent use of the bathroom or sudden bowel movements
3. High fever and chills, especially in infections
4. Blood and mucus in stools
5. Gas, bloating, and indigestion
6. Weakness, fatigue, and exhaustion
7. Loss of appetite and weight
8. Signs of severe dehydration, such as dry mouth, sunken eyes, dry skin, and reduced urine output (seek immediate medical attention)
9. Particularly in IBS, frequent bowel movements, especially after eating, and possible signs of depression.
Causes of Severe Diarrhea:
Mostly, infections, often transmitted through contaminated water and food, cause severe diarrhea. Viruses like Norwalk, Enteric adenovirus, Astrovirus, Cytomegalovirus, and viral hepatitis, as well as bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Cholera, can be responsible. Parasites and certain medications, including antibiotics, can also induce diarrhea.
Causes of Chronic Diarrhea:
Numerous factors contribute to chronic diarrhea:
1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
2. Inflammatory Bowel Disease
3. HIV or Tuberculosis
4. Wheat allergy or celiac disease
5. Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
6. Hyperthyroidism
7. Lactose intolerance
8. Colorectal cancer
Diagnosis of Diarrhea:
For a proper diagnosis, consult a doctor who may recommend tests like stool analysis, urea, creatinine, electrolyte levels, colonoscopy, and intestinal or duodenal biopsy.
Complications of Diarrhea:
Severe diarrhea can lead to dehydration, unconsciousness, low blood pressure, and, in extreme cases, death. Adequate water intake is crucial, especially for children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
Prevention and Treatment of Diarrhea:
Preventing dehydration is essential. Increased water intake and using oral rehydration solutions (ORS) can help. Severe cases may require hospitalization. Lifestyle changes, dietary restrictions (especially in IBS), stress management, and medical treatment are part of managing chronic diarrhea. Consult a doctor for a personalized approach.