Diarrhoea

This is a condition which would cause the patients to pass frequent watery stools and can be acute or chronic in nature. Acute Diarrhoea is caused normally by a viral or bacterial infection and also keeps coming back and affecting people from time to time. The symptoms would clear up in couple of day’s time and does not get much serious in nature normally. The type of condition in case of acute Diarrhoea would normally be much more serious in nature and should need investigation from the doctor.

Symptoms

The symptoms would be watery tools and upset tummy. The other common symptoms are cramping of the tummy pains, nausea, fever, headaches and also loss of appetite. In case if it goes on for long, then it’s better to go for doctor’s treatment immediately.

Causes

The condition occurs in small or large intestine and leads to more water being passed in the stool. The frequent type would occur due to infection caused by a virus or some bacteria. The other short term reasons can be depression, drinking too much alcohol, coffee or sweets and the side effects from other medicines. Infection may also spread in the form of food which is unhygienic. It is an infectious disease. In case of one being affected for long time, its better to get consultation from the doctor.

Diagnosis

The acute conditions settles down in a week’s time and tests may not be needed. For a persistent diarrhoea, one may need to get the stool samples investigated for bacteria and parasites. In case of blood in patient’s stools or dehydration, it’s advisable to see a Doctor. Blood tests are also conducted for diagnosing the Diarrhoea.

Treatment

One can avoid dehydration, also may be advised to intake some rehydration drinks. One should also try eating as soon as possible. There are anti-diarrhoea medicines which can be prescribed by the doctor. Patients can continue to breast feed the kids even when they are suffering of Diarrhoea. The patient should try and maintain good hygienic condition as it is easier to cure. There are some home treatments which can be practiced to avoid diarrhoea. There are some rehydrating drinks which are easily available over the counter. These types of sachets provide the correct balance of water, salt and sugar to body. These are the most recommended ones especially for children. Also stale food can be avoided and freshly prepared food should be taken.
Complications

Complications can occur when blood shows up in the stool. The child gets dehydrated, and continues vomiting for several days. In this case, patient needs to be admitted into the hospital for treatment under doctor supervision.

Prevention

It’s always preventable by keeping the body well hydrated. Also it’s recommended, not to consume stale food which has been stored for more than 3-4 days.