3 min
10-February-2025
Diarrhoea is a common health issue that affects individuals across all age groups. It is characterised by the frequent passing of loose or watery stools and is often accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal cramps, dehydration, or nausea. While diarrhoea is typically caused by mild infections or dietary issues, it can sometimes indicate serious underlying health problems if left untreated. In India, where access to clean water and food safety practices can vary, diarrhoea remains a significant concern. Proper awareness of its causes, symptoms, prevention methods, and treatment options can play a crucial role in managing this condition effectively. This guide aims to provide a detailed understanding of diarrhoea, including actionable tips to maintain digestive health and avoid complications.
Infections from bacteria, viruses, or parasites due to contaminated food or water.
Food intolerances, like lactose intolerance, triggering digestive discomfort.
Medications, such as antibiotics, disrupting gut flora.
Poor hygiene practices, including inadequate handwashing.
Drinking untreated or unfiltered water.
Stress and anxiety, affecting normal digestion.
Chronic conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease.
Frequent loose or watery stools.
Abdominal cramps or discomfort.
Nausea and vomiting.
Signs of dehydration, such as dark urine or extreme thirst.
Fever, often indicating an underlying infection.
Bloating or a feeling of fullness.
Sudden urgency to pass stools multiple times a day.
Drink plenty of oral rehydration solutions (ORS) to prevent dehydration.
Consume light, bland foods such as rice, bananas, and toast.
Avoid spicy, fatty, or dairy-rich foods during an episode.
Take probiotics to restore gut bacteria balance.
Use over-the-counter anti-diarrhoeal medications cautiously.
Maintain proper hygiene during and after an episode.
Ensure adequate rest to allow the body to recover.
Common causes of diarrhoea: What you need to know
Diarrhoea has multiple causes, ranging from infections to lifestyle factors. Identifying these causes can help in effective prevention and management. Below are the most common reasons for diarrhoea, highlighting their significance.Infections from bacteria, viruses, or parasites due to contaminated food or water.
Food intolerances, like lactose intolerance, triggering digestive discomfort.
Medications, such as antibiotics, disrupting gut flora.
Poor hygiene practices, including inadequate handwashing.
Drinking untreated or unfiltered water.
Stress and anxiety, affecting normal digestion.
Chronic conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease.
Symptoms of diarrhoea: Identifying the signs
Early identification of diarrhoea symptoms is critical for timely treatment and prevention of complications. Below are the common symptoms to look out for.Frequent loose or watery stools.
Abdominal cramps or discomfort.
Nausea and vomiting.
Signs of dehydration, such as dark urine or extreme thirst.
Fever, often indicating an underlying infection.
Bloating or a feeling of fullness.
Sudden urgency to pass stools multiple times a day.
How to manage and treat diarrhoea effectively?
Managing diarrhoea involves addressing the underlying cause and focusing on recovery. The following steps can help in effective treatment.Drink plenty of oral rehydration solutions (ORS) to prevent dehydration.
Consume light, bland foods such as rice, bananas, and toast.
Avoid spicy, fatty, or dairy-rich foods during an episode.
Take probiotics to restore gut bacteria balance.
Use over-the-counter anti-diarrhoeal medications cautiously.
Maintain proper hygiene during and after an episode.
Ensure adequate rest to allow the body to recover.
