What are the types of diarrhoea
Diarrhoea is classified based on how long it lasts:
- Acute Diarrhoea: This is the most common type. It involves loose, watery stools that last for one to two days and typically resolves on its own without medical treatment.
- Persistent Diarrhoea: When Diarrhoea continues for two to four weeks, it’s considered persistent and may require further evaluation.
- Chronic Diarrhea: If it lasts longer than four weeks or keeps coming back over time, it may be a sign of an underlying health issue. Chronic diarrhea should be assessed by a healthcare provider.
How common is diarrhea?
Diarrhea is extremely common and can affect individuals of all ages. On average, adults experience acute diarrhea about once a year, while children may have it twice a year.
What are the common causes of diarrhoea
The most common cause of diarrhea is a viral infection in the gut, known as gastroenteritis. Many refer to it as the “stomach flu” or “stomach bug.” However, diarrhea can result from a wide range of triggers:
1. Infections
Viruses, bacteria, and parasites can all lead to infections that cause diarrhea.
- In adults, the leading cause is norovirus.
- In children, rotavirus is the most common culprit behind acute diarrhea.
2. Food poisoning
Consuming contaminated food or drinks can introduce harmful toxins or pathogens into the digestive system, leading to diarrhea.
- Traveler’s diarrhea is common when visiting areas with poor sanitation or hygiene and is typically caused by bacterial exposure.
3. Medications
Diarrhea is a frequent side effect of many medications:
- Antibiotics can disrupt the balance of good bacteria in the gut.
- Antacids containing magnesium, certain chemotherapy drugs, and overuse of laxatives can also trigger diarrhea.
4. Food intolerances and sensitivities
Some people have difficulty digesting specific substances:
- Lactose intolerance causes diarrhea when consuming dairy.
- Fructose, found in fruits, honey, and sweetened foods, can cause digestive issues.
- People with celiac disease experience diarrhea due to an inability to process gluten, a protein in wheat.
5. Chronic bowel conditions
Conditions like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) often include diarrhea as a symptom. Emotional stress and anxiety can worsen diarrhea in those with IBS.
6. Bowel surgeries
Post-surgical changes in the digestive system, especially after bowel surgeries, may lead to temporary diarrhea. The gut might take time to adjust and properly absorb nutrients and fluids.
What are the symptoms of diarrhea?
The primary symptom of diarrhea is passing loose or watery stools. Other common signs may include:
- Bloating or abdominal cramps
- A sudden, urgent need to use the bathroom
- Nausea or an upset stomach
In most cases, these symptoms are mild and resolve on their own within a few days, without the need to see a healthcare provider.
When Is Diarrhea serious?
Sometimes, diarrhea can indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as an infection, and may require medical attention. You should contact a healthcare provider if you experience:
- A high fever
- Severe abdominal pain
- Ongoing vomiting
- Blood or mucus in the stool
- Unexplained weight loss (which may signal poor nutrient absorption)
Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, especially in children. Seek medical help if you or your child shows any of the following signs:
In adults:
- Headache
- Dry, flushed skin
- Fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Confusion or irritability
- Dark-colored urine or very little urine output
In infants and toddlers:
- Fewer than 6 wet diapers in 24 hours
- No wet diapers or urination for over 8 hours
- No tears while crying
Dehydration can quickly become serious, especially in young children and older adults, so don’t delay in seeking care if these signs appear.
What are the complications of diarrhea?
If left untreated, diarrhea can lead to serious complications such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, malnutrition, and in severe cases, organ damage. Chronic diarrhea may also indicate underlying conditions that need medical intervention.
How is diarrhea diagnosed?
Healthcare providers diagnose the cause of diarrhea using a combination of methods:
- Medical history: You’ll be asked about your symptoms, diet, recent travel, and medications.
- Stool tests: Used to check for infections, blood, or parasites in your stool.
- Blood tests: Help identify signs of infection, inflammation, or nutrient deficiencies.
- Colonoscopy or Sigmoidoscopy: Performed in chronic or unexplained cases to inspect the colon for disease or inflammation.
Diagnosis helps guide the right treatment and rule out serious conditions.
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?
In most cases, diarrhea can be managed at home. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications like bismuth subsalicylate (such as Pepto-Bismol® or Kaopectate®) can offer quick relief for mild symptoms. However, if your diarrhea persists or occurs alongside severe symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider.
Depending on the cause, your doctor may recommend:
- Antibiotics or antiparasitic medications – To eliminate infections caused by bacteria or parasites.
- Medications for underlying conditions – Managing chronic issues like IBD or IBS can reduce diarrhea episodes.
- Probiotics – These supplements introduce beneficial bacteria to support gut health. Always check with your provider before starting probiotics or any supplement.
