Diarrhea

Diarrhea is loose, watery stools. A person with diarrhea typically passes stool more than three times a day. People with diarrhea may pass more than a quart of stool a day. Prolonged diarrhea persisting for more than 2 days may be a sign of a more serious problem and poses the risk of dehydration.

Diarrhea can cause dehydration, which means the body lacks enough fluid to function properly. Dehydration is particularly dangerous in children and older people, and it must be treated promptly to avoid serious health problems. People of all ages can get diarrhea and the average adult has about of acute diarrhea about four times a year.

What are the symptoms of diarrhea? Diarrhea may be accompanied by cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, or an urgent need to use the bathroom. Depending on the cause, a person may have a fever or bloody stools.

When should a doctor be consulted?
Diarrhea is not usually harmful, but it can become dangerous or signal a more serious problem. You should see the doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Diarrhea for more than 3 days
- Severe pain in the abdomen or rectum
- A fever of 102 degrees or higher
- Blood in your stool or black, tarry stools
- Signs of dehydration

Preventing Diarrhea
Diarrhea happens when you consume food or water contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites. You can take the following precautions to prevent diarrhea;
- Do not drink unpasteurized milk or dairy products.
- Avoid all raw fruits and vegetables, including lettuce and fruit salads, unless they can be peeled and you peel them yourself.
- Do not eat raw or rare meat, fish, and food not hot when served
- Wash your hands before and after cooking

Notice :
- Diarrhea is dangerous if a person becomes dehydrated.
- Causes include viral, bacterial, parasitic infections, food intolerance, reactions to medicine, intestinal diseases, and functional bowel disorders.
- Treatment depends on the cause of the problem involves. You may need an oral dehydration solution to replace lost fluid and electrolytes
- See the doctor if the person with diarrhea has severe pain in the abdomen or rectum, a fever of 102 degrees or higher, blood in the stool, signs of dehydration, or diarrhea for more than 3 days.

For additional information, please contact the “Gastrointestinal and Liver Center” Bangkok Hospital Phuket thru info@PhuketHospital.com

www.PhuketHospital.com