Diarrhea is a gastrointestinal disorder that can be caused by a variety of factors. It is a common disease and affects people of all ages around the world. It is important to inform yourself about this disease. In this content, we offer you practical advice to properly manage it if you have it.

Definition and types of diarrhea

The WHO defines diarrhea as the defecation three or more times a day (or more frequently than is normal for the person), of loose or liquid stools. A classification commonly used is based on duration, with the following types:

• Acute diarrhea: Sudden onset and lasting less than two weeks. It is commonly caused by viral, bacterial or parasitic infections. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, cramps and fever.
• Traveler’s diarrhea: Occurs in people who travel to places with less than adequate hygiene. Often improves within a few days without treatment. It is commonly caused by consuming food or water contaminated with bacteria, viruses or parasites.
• Persistent diarrhea: Lasts between two and four weeks. May be caused by persistent infections, food intolerances or chronic intestinal disorders.
• Chronic diarrhea: Persists for more than four weeks. Requires thorough evaluation and personalized treatment to address the underlying cause.

Causes of diarrhea

Diarrhea can have multiple causes, mainly due to infections of bacterial, viral or parasitic origin acquired through food poisoning. It can also be due to food intolerances or medications that can alter the balance of intestinal bacteria and cause diarrhea.

Symptoms of diarrhea

Diarrhea manifests itself with different symptoms, including frequent and liquid bowel movements, urgency to defecate, abdominal pain and stomach cramps. In addition, it can be accompanied by general malaise, fever, nausea and vomiting.

These symptoms can affect daily activities and lead to dehydration if not treated properly. It is very important to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or if signs of dehydration are observed.

Our recommendations to help you with your diarrhea processes

Taking appropriate care measures and seeking treatment when necessary can help reduce the incidence and severity of diarrhea, thereby improving the quality of life for those who suffer from it. Here are our tips!

• Stay hydrated: Fluid loss due to diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so it is essential to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water, clear broths, or oral rehydration solutions to replace lost fluids.
• Avoid certain foods: It is advisable to follow a bland diet and avoid certain foods that can worsen symptoms, such as:
  Fatty and fried foods
  Spicy foods
  Dairy products
  Fibrous or high-fiber foods
  Alcoholic and caffeinated beverages
• Maintain a bland diet: Facilitating digestion and avoiding further irritating the gastrointestinal tract is key, consider consuming bland and easy-to-digest foods, such as:
  White rice
  Ripe bananas
  Apple sauce
  Toast
  Boiled or grilled chicken
• Rest and Recover: Adequate rest is essential to allow your body to recover. Take time to rest and allow your digestive system to stabilize.
• Go to your pharmacy: Go to your pharmacy and consult with professionals for solutions that can help you, there are antidiarrheal medications that can be useful to reduce the frequency of bowel movements and relieve symptoms.
• See your doctor if necessary: ​​If you experience severe or persistent symptoms, such as dehydration, high fever, or blood in your stool, seek medical attention immediately. Health care professionals can offer you the right treatment and help you recover faster.

Sources

World Health Organization (WHO).
Spanish Federation of the Digestive System (FEAD).
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).