• Published on: Apr 15, 2022
  • 3 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

Diarrhea – Causes & Treatment!

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Diarrhea – causes & treatment!

Diarrhea is a condition that causes you to have three or more loose, watery stools in a day. If you have diarrhea, you may also have nausea, vomiting, cramps, and a fever. Diarrhea can be caused by many things, including viruses, bacteria, parasites, food poisoning, and medications. It can also be a side effect of cancer treatments and other health conditions. If you have diarrhea for more than 2 days or it is severe, contact your doctor. You may need intravenous fluids if you are dehydrated. Book a doctor's visit to get the help you need today!

It is best to speak to your doctor online or in person. However, some causes of diarrhea include: eating contaminated food, drinking contaminated water, a virus, bacterial infection, or parasite. Sometimes antibiotics can cause diarrhea as a side effect.  If you are experiencing diarrhea, it is important to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water and electrolyte-containing drinks such as sports drinks or coconut water. If your diarrhea persists for more than a day or two, or if you develop other symptoms, you should consult your doctor. You may need medication to stop diarrhea or to treat an underlying infection.

Diarrhea is caused by different things, such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, food allergies, and intolerances, and stress. It's important to find the cause of your diarrhea so that you can get the right treatment. Often times people will just try to ride it out and not seek medical help which can lead to further health complications. If the diarrhea is accompanied by fever, blood in the stool, or severe abdominal pain, then you should go to the ER. Otherwise, you can try taking an over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medication like Imodium and drink plenty of fluids. It's also a good idea to avoid dairy products and caffeine while you're recovering.

If your diarrhea persists for more than a few days or if it keeps coming back, then you should see a doctor. Book an appointment online today. There are many causes of diarrhea, but some common ones include food poisoning, a virus, or bacteria. If you have diarrhea that lasts for more than a few days, or is accompanied by fever, blood in your stool, or severe abdominal pain, it's important to see a doctor. In the meantime, you can try to ease your symptoms by drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding dairy products and sugary drinks. You may also find that certain foods make your diarrhea worse - for example, spicy foods or caffeine. If you're having trouble keeping anything down, try taking small sips of water or an electrolyte drink like Gatorade.

There are many possible causes of diarrhea, ranging from mild to life-threatening. It's important to see a doctor if you have diarrhea so that the cause can be identified and treated.

Some common causes of diarrhea include:

-Food poisoning

-A reaction to the medication

-A virus such as the flu or norovirus

-Bacteria such as E. coli or salmonella

-Parasites, such as Giardia lamblia or cryptosporidium

-Lactose intolerance

Diarrhea can be a symptom of many diseases and conditions, such as bacterial gastroenteritis, food poisoning, viral gastroenteritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and more. In some cases it may be a side effect of medication. If you have diarrhea for more than two days – or if you have blood in your stool – please see your doctor. Untreated diarrhea can lead to dehydration and other serious health problems.

Diarrhea can be caused by a number of things, including bacteria, viruses, parasites, or food allergies. It can also be the side effect of medication or radiation therapy. If you are experiencing diarrhea, it is important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. You can also take over-the-counter medication such as Pepto-Bismol or Imodium to help relieve symptoms. Dehydration is the most common complication of diarrhea. It can be caused by diarrhea itself, or by vomiting associated with it. Children are more likely to become dehydrated than adults.

Signs of dehydration include increased thirst, decreased urine output, dry mouth, and sunken eyes. In severe cases, a person may develop confusion or seizures. If you have diarrhea, drink plenty of fluids (especially water) to replace those lost through diarrhea and vomiting. If you are unable to keep liquids down or if your symptoms worsen, see your doctor or go to the nearest emergency room.

There are many potential causes of diarrhea, and it is best to speak to a doctor if the diarrhea persists for more than a day or two. Some common causes of diarrhea include food poisoning, viral or bacterial infections, and medications. Frequent consumption of dairy products, artificial sweeteners, caffeine, or alcohol can also lead to episodes of diarrhea. In addition, problems with the digestive system such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause persistent episodes of diarrhea. You can try some over-the-counter medications such as Pepto-Bismol or Imodium to help relieve your symptoms. However, if you have frequent episodes of diarrhea, then it may be a good idea to see your doctor and get some medication to help regulate your bowel movements. There are a variety of different medications that can be prescribed depending on the underlying cause of your diarrhea.

You can also try natural remedies such as ginger tea or probiotics. Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, and probiotics can help restore the balance of good bacteria in the gut. If your diarrhea is mild and you're not pregnant, the best home treatment is to drink plenty of fluids, including water, sports drinks, or broth. You can also eat light foods such as saltine crackers, rice, applesauce, and toast.

Read Blog
10 Early Signs of Cancer Most Indians Ignore

10 Early Signs of Cancer Most Indians Ignore

Cancer is a growing concern in India, with cases rising due to lifestyle changes, genetic factors, and environmental triggers. Early detection plays a crucial role in successful treatment and recovery. Unfortunately, many people tend to overlook early signs of cancer, mistaking them for minor health issues. In this article, we will discuss 10 early signs of cancer that most Indians ignore, how to detect them early, and essential cancer prevention tips.

1. Unexplained Weight Loss

If you are losing weight without any changes in diet or exercise, it could be a warning sign of cancer. Cancers of the stomach, pancreas, esophagus, and lungs can cause sudden weight loss. If you experience unexplained weight loss of more than 5 kg, consult a doctor immediately.

2. Persistent Fatigue

Feeling excessively tired despite getting enough rest may indicate an underlying health issue, including cancer. Leukemia, colon, and stomach cancers are often linked to extreme fatigue. If fatigue persists without an identifiable reason, it is advisable to get a medical evaluation.

3. Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits

Frequent diarrhea, constipation, or blood in the stool may signal colorectal cancer, while changes in urination patterns may indicate bladder or prostate cancer. If you notice prolonged changes in your bowel or bladder habits, seek medical attention.

4. Non-Healing Sores

A sore that does not heal within a few weeks could be a sign of oral cancer or skin cancer. Smokers and tobacco users should be especially vigilant about mouth ulcers, as they are at higher risk of developing signs of oral cancer.

5. Persistent Cough or Hoarseness

A cough lasting more than three weeks, especially if accompanied by blood, could be a symptom of lung cancer. Hoarseness that persists might be linked to throat or thyroid cancer. How to detect cancer early in such cases involves consulting a specialist if respiratory symptoms do not improve.

6. Lumps or Thickening of Tissue

The presence of lumps in the breast, testicles, or other parts of the body should not be ignored. Common cancer types in India, such as breast and testicular cancer, often present as painless lumps in their early stages. Early medical evaluation can prevent progression.

7. Difficulty Swallowing

Persistent difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, could be an early symptom of throat, esophageal, or stomach cancer. If swallowing problems continue despite dietary adjustments, a medical examination is necessary.

8. Unexplained Bleeding

Unusual bleeding, such as blood in urine, stool, or coughing up blood, is a serious warning sign of cancer. Cervical and endometrial cancers may cause abnormal vaginal bleeding. It is crucial to get tested if such symptoms occur.

9. Skin Changes

Skin abnormalities, such as dark patches, changes in moles, or persistent itching, can be indicators of skin cancer. If a mole grows, changes color, or starts bleeding, it is important to consult a dermatologist immediately.

10. Persistent Pain

Pain that does not go away, especially in the bones or back, can sometimes be an early sign of cancer. While pain alone is not definitive, unexplained or long-lasting pain should be evaluated by a medical professional.

How to Detect Cancer Early

Early detection greatly improves the chances of successful treatment. Here are some tips to catch cancer in its initial stages:

  • Regular Health Check-ups: Routine screenings, such as mammograms, Pap smears, and colonoscopies, help in detecting cancer before symptoms appear.

  • Self-Examinations: Checking for lumps, unusual moles, or changes in bodily functions can help identify potential issues early.

  • Knowing Family History: If there is a family history of cancer, it is advisable to go for genetic counseling and regular screenings.

  • Seeking Medical Attention Promptly: Do not ignore persistent symptoms. Early diagnosis is key to effective treatment.

Cancer Prevention Tips

While cancer cannot always be prevented, adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk. Here are some essential cancer prevention tips:

  • Quit Smoking and Tobacco Use: Tobacco consumption is one of the leading causes of signs of oral cancer and lung cancer in India. Avoiding tobacco can drastically reduce your risk.

  • Eat a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports overall health and lowers cancer risk.

  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity increases the risk of several cancers, including breast and colorectal cancer. Regular exercise is key to maintaining a healthy weight.

  • Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake has been linked to liver, breast, and digestive tract cancers. Limiting alcohol can help reduce cancer risk.

  • Protect Yourself from the Sun: Skin cancer can be prevented by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding excessive sun exposure.

  • Get Vaccinated: Vaccinations against Hepatitis B and HPV can prevent liver and cervical cancer, respectively.

  • Avoid Exposure to Carcinogens: Limit exposure to harmful chemicals, such as asbestos and radiation, that are known to cause cancer.

Conclusion

Awareness is the first step toward preventing and detecting cancer early. Ignoring early signs can lead to late-stage diagnosis and reduced treatment success. By understanding these early signs of cancer, following cancer prevention tips, and undergoing regular screenings, individuals can significantly lower their risk. If you experience any of these symptoms, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional. How to detect cancer early is crucial knowledge that can save lives.

By staying informed and proactive, we can fight the rising incidence of common cancer types in India and ensure better health outcomes for all.

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