Diarrhea

Diarrhea Or Soft Watery Stools

Diarrhea is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints and is something most people will deal with at least a few times a year.  In many cases, the diarrhea is mild and has a short duration.  However, moderate or prolonged diarrhea can be a sign of a more serious underlying problem.  Severe diarrhea, especially when accompanied by vomiting or left untreated, can lead to dehydration and serious medical complications. 

By definition, diarrhea refers to loose, watery stools, often accompanied by bowel urgency (or the need to use the bathroom right away).  During normal digestion, water is absorbed from the stool in the intestine. Abdominal bloating, cramping, nausea and vomiting can all accompany diarrhea depending on the root cause of the gastrointestinal upset.  Additional symptoms that can accompany diarrhea include bloody stool, weight loss and fever.  If these symptoms are present, a more serious condition may be behind them, and medical attention is necessary to identify and treat the underlying problem.

 

There are many diseases, habits and disorders that can cause diarrhea:

-- Bacterial Infections, such as food poisoning
-- Viral Infections (the so called "stomach flu")
-- Presence of parasites in the digestive system
-- Foods that an individual does not tolerate well (such as lactose intolerance)
-- Allergies and food sensitivities (such as gluten allergy)
-- Side effects from medication
-- Substance abuse
-- Intestinal diseases like Crohn's Disease or inflammatory bowel disease

When treating diarrhea, addressing the underlying cause is really the crucial step to preventing long-term or chronic symptoms.  Short-term relief can be found through medications like Immodium A-D or Kaopectate.  These drugs work by slowing gut motility and can reduce the frequency and urgency of bowel movements. 

Because diarrhea is a symptom, not a disease unto itself, it must be considered alongside other symptoms for a diagnosis to occur.  Be sure to bring any long-lasting or moderate to severe diarrhea to the attention of your doctor.  Also seek medical attention if your diarrhea coincides with a fever or if you notice blood or excessive mucus in the stool as these can be signs of a serious condition.