Diarrhea is a common ailment. It can be a symptom of a more serious illness, or the ailment itself. It is not a disease. Diarrhea presents with frequent watery unformed stools, depleting the body of precious electrolytes. Potassium loss is the greatest and can have a direct effect on your heart rhythm. Severe abdominal cramping may occur, accompanied by weakness, nausea and general malaise. Additionally, due to decreased blood volume caused by the loss of fluids, the body cannot sustain adequate blood pressure if very dehydrated and organ failure can result.
If the following symptoms of dehydration occur, seek immediate medical attention:
- Decreased urination
- Dry mouth
- Excessive thirst
- Dry or itchy skin
- Loss of equilibrium
- Fainting
- Confusion
If the flare up is acute and short term, over the counter medications can be helpful such as Imodium and Lomotil. Stay away from solids and milk and hydrate with water and nutritional drinks such as gator aide or other sports drinks. If the diarrhea lasts for a prolonged time, generally greater than 2 days, seek medical attention. Diarrhea can cause life threatening problems if unresolved. If it has been determined that you are suffering from chronic diarrhea, there are several measures you can take to regain normal gastrointestinal status. Chronic diarrhea presents itself in IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) and IBD (inflammatory bowel syndrome). Nutrition plays an important part in minimizing the flare ups if these illnesses.
First of all, stay away from dairy products. It is known that starting as early as the age of twelve, we become lactose intolerant. If you must have your dairy, limit to less than a half of a quart a week inclusive of butters, ice creams, milk and cheeses. Eat foods that high in soluble fiber such at oat bran and 12 grain breads. Peel your fruits and vegetables and decrease alcohol and caffeine intake. Caffeine is a stimulant that causes cramping and peristalsis. Increase your fluid intake with juice and sport drinks. Cranberry juice is recommended as it decreases the possibility of urinary tract infection which can accompany chronic diarrhea. During an acute bout, remember the BRAT diet used by pediatricians to treat children’s diarrheas:
B – Banana
R – Rice
A – Applesauce
T - Toast
The following supplements are beneficial in treating diarrhea:
- Vitamin C – take 2000mg daily
- SP 303 – found in a South American plant, this is effective in calming the intestinal lining. It can be found in the product SB Normal Stool Formula
- Glutamine – this supplement can be founding health food stores and acts as a constipating agent
- Psyllium – found in a powder form, this builds stool bulk, but does not taste too good. You can find this in fiber products such as Metamucil or fiber bars.
You may want to consider probiotic supplements. This is beneficial bacteria that promotes intestinal health and restores normal flora count. You can find probiotics in health food stores.
Diarrhea can be caused by stress. Yoga, Mediation, Massages and other forms of stress reducing exercises may be the ticket for you. Try aromatherapy, long soothing tub soaks, and peaceful music. All have a calming effect that combined with good eating habits, and keep diarrhea at bay.
Drink plenty of purified water daily – up to two and a half quarts is recommended. Keep your immune system strong through adequate sleep, exercise and nutrition.
People who are under the age three, pregnant, have another severe illness such as AIDS or diabetes should see their physician when they have diarrhea. Also, if the diarrhea is accompanied by fever, bloody stools, extreme abdominal pain or lasts more than 48 hours, seek medical attention.