Actually, I've got diarrhea, so because of that, i'm seaching for the information about it...huhu... <<upset stomach>>
Diarrhea describes bowel
movements (stools) that are loose and watery.
It is very common and usually not serious. Many people will have diarrhea once
or twice each year. It typically lasts two to three days and can be treated
with over-the-counter (OTC) medicines. Some people have diarrhea often as part
of irritable bowel syndrome or
other chronic diseases of the large
intestine.
Doctors classify diarrhea as "osmotic,"
"secretory," or "exudative."
What Causes Diarrhea?
The most common cause of diarrhea is a virus that infects
the gut. The infection usually lasts for two days and is sometimes called
"intestinal flu" or "stomach flu." Diarrhea may also be
caused by:
- · Infection by bacteria (the cause of most types of food poisoning)
- · Infections by other organisms
- · Eating foods that upset the digestive system
- · Allergies to certain foods
- · Medications
- · Radiation therapy
- · Diseases of the intestines (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis)
- · Malabsorption (where the body is unable to adequately absorb certain nutrients from the diet)
- · Hyperthyroidism
- · Some cancers
- · Laxative abuse
- · Alcohol abuse
- · Digestive tract surgery
- · Diabetes
- · Competitive running
Diarrhea may also follow constipation, especially for people who have
irritable bowel syndrome.
What Are the Symptoms of Diarrhea?
Symptoms of diarrhea can be broken down into uncomplicated
(or non-serious) diarrhea and complicated diarrhea. Complicated diarrhea may be
a sign of a more serious illness.
Symptoms of uncomplicated diarrhea include:
- · Abdominal bloating or cramps
- · Thin or loose stools
- · Watery stool
- · Sense of urgency to have a bowel movement
- · Nausea and vomiting
In addition to the symptoms described above, the symptoms of
complicated diarrhea include:
- · Blood, mucus, or undigested food in the stool
- · Weight loss
- · Fever
Contact your doctor if you have prolonged diarrhea or a
fever that lasts more than 24 hours. Also see your doctor promptly if vomiting
prevents you from drinking liquids to replace lost fluids.
How Is Diarrhea Treated?
If you have a mild case of diarrhea, you can just let it run
its course, or you can treat it with an over-the-counter medicine. Common brand
names include Pepto-Bismol, Imodium A-D, and Kaopectate, which are available as liquids or
tablets. Follow the instructions on the package.
In addition, you should drink at least six 8-ounce glasses
of fluid per day. Choose fruit juice without pulp, broth, or soda (without caffeine). Chicken broth (without the fat), tea
with honey, and sports drinks are also good choices. Instead of drinking
liquids with your meals, drink liquids between meals. Drink small amounts of
fluids frequently.
Friendly sharing --> http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/digestive-diseases-diarrhea
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