Understanding Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms, Relief, and Prevention

                                                               credits: matrix pharma

Overview

Diarrhoeal disease is the third leading cause of death in children under 5 years old and is responsible for killing around 443,832 children every year. Diarrhoea can last several days and can leave the body without the water and salts that are necessary for survival. In the past, for most people, severe dehydration and fluid loss were the main causes of diarrhoea-associated deaths. Now, other causes such as septic bacterial infections are likely to account for an increasing proportion of all diarrhoea-associated deaths. Children who are malnourished or have impaired immunity, as well as people living with HIV, are most at risk of life-threatening diarrhoea.

Diarrhoea is defined as the passage of 3 or more loose or liquid stools per day (or more frequent passage than is normal for the individual). Frequent passing of formed stools is not diarrhoea, nor is the passing of loose, pasty stools by breastfed babies.

Diarrhoea is usually a symptom of an infection in the intestinal tract, which can be caused by a variety of bacterial, viral and parasitic organisms. Infection is spread through contaminated food or drinking water, or from person to person as a result of poor hygiene.

Interventions to prevent diarrhoea, including safe drinking water, use of improved sanitation and hand washing with soap, can reduce disease risk. Diarrhoea should be treated with oral rehydration solution (ORS), a solution of clean water, sugar and salt. In addition, a 10–14 day supplemental treatment course of dispersible zinc tablets shortens diarrhoea duration and improves outcomes.

General Information

                                                                 credits: metropolisindia

Diarrhea can be classified into three main types:

1. Acute Diarrhea: Lasts for a short duration, usually a few days.
2. Persistent Diarrhea: Lasts between two and four weeks
3. Chronic Diarrhea: Persists for over four weeks, often indicating a chronic health condition.    

Symptoms

The primary symptom of diarrhoea is loose, watery stools. Other symptoms may include:

• Abdominal cramps and pain
• Bloating
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Urgency to have a bowel movement
• Dehydration (symptoms of which include dry mouth, thirst, reduced urine output, dizziness, and lightheadedness)

Causes

Diarrhea can be caused by various factors, including:

• Infections: Bacterial (e.g., Escherichia coli, Salmonella), viral (e.g., Norovirus, Rotavirus), and parasitic (e.g., Giardia lamblia).
• Food Intolerances and Sensitivities: Lactose intolerance, celiac disease, and sensitivities to certain foods or ingredients.
• Medications: Antibiotics, cancer drugs, and antacids containing magnesium.
• Digestive Disorders: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and celiac disease.
• Poor Sanitation: Contaminated water and food, particularly in developing countries.
  
  
  

Treatment

The treatment for diarrhoea depends on the underlying cause but generally includes:

1. Rehydration: Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) containing water, salts, and sugar are essential to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. In severe cases, intravenous fluids may be required.
2. Medications:
   • Antidiarrheals: Loperamide (Imodium) can reduce stool frequency but should be used cautiously.
   • Antibiotics: Prescribed if a bacterial infection is confirmed.
3. Dietary Adjustments: Consuming easily digestible foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet). Avoiding fatty, spicy, and high-fiber foods until recovery.

Prevention

Preventing diarrhoea involves several strategies, particularly in areas with poor sanitation:

1. Good Hygiene Practices:

   • Regular handwashing with soap and water, especially after using the toilet and before eating.
   • Using alcohol-based hand sanitizers if soap and water are unavailable.

2. Safe Food and Water Practices:

   • Drinking clean, purified water and avoiding ice made from untreated water.
   • Eating well-cooked food and avoiding raw or undercooked meats and seafood.
   • Washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption.

3. Vaccination:

   • Vaccines are available for certain types of diarrheal infections, such as Rotavirus.

4. Proper Sanitation:

   • Ensuring access to clean water and proper sanitation facilities.
   • Practicing safe disposal of human waste.

Conclusion

Diarrhea is a common condition with a wide range of causes, from infections to food sensitivities and chronic illnesses. Understanding the symptoms, seeking appropriate treatment, and adopting preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk and impact of diarrhoea. In cases where diarrhoea persists or is accompanied by severe symptoms, seeking medical attention is crucial.

Sources:

• https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/diarrhoeal-disease
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diarrhea/symptoms-causes/syc-20352241
  
• https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/diarrhea

       By understanding the various aspects of diarrhoea, individuals can take proactive steps to manage and prevent this common condition effectively.