Diarrhea

Everyone suffers from loose stools sometimes, but what is diarrhea, how do you get it and how can you prevent it?

We speak of diarrhea if you have three or more loose bowel movements per day. Diarrhea may be accompanied by abdominal cramps, nausea and fever.

The infection with viruses or bacteria can occur through contaminated water or food, or through contact with someone with diarrhea. You are also more likely to get diarrhea during a trip because your body is not familiar with the germs there. But stress can also cause diarrhea. Finally, antibiotics or an allergy to milk or wheat can also cause diarrhea.

Diarrhea often goes away on its own without medication. You can lose a lot of fluid due to diarrhea. That is why it is important to drink enough. It is best to drink plain water at room temperature. You do not need to follow a strict diet unless your diarrhea is caused by a food allergy.

See your doctor if you have a fever or bloody stools or if the diarrhea lasts longer than a week.

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 0000-00-00 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024