Diarrhea

Overview

Diarrhea is the passage of loose and watery bowel contents. It is a common problem that lasts no more than a few days. Diarrhea is a symptom, not a disease.

Signs and Symptoms

Loose and watery stools, Abdominal pain or cramps, Urgent need to have bowel motions, Mucus in the stool, Blood in the stool, Nausea, Bloating, Fever

Common Causes

Contaminated food or water containing bacteria, viruses, and parasites especially when travelling to developing countries, Medications such as antibiotics, antacids containing magnesium and cancer drugs, Fructose which is found in fruits, honey, and sweeteners, Lactose intolerance, Artificial sweeteners such as mannitol and sorbitol which are found in sugar-free products and chewing gums, Surgery such as gallbladder or abdominal removal surgeries, Digestive disorders such as Crohn's disease, celiac disease, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome, Alcohol use

Investigation Techniques

Medical history, Physical examination, Blood tests including full blood count, liver function tests, thyroid function tests, urea and electrolytes, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, c-reactive protein, folate, vitamin B12, calcium Stool tests, Serological tests for celiac disease, Lactose tolerance test, Colonoscopy, Sigmoidoscopy, Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy

Treatment and Prevention

Treat underlying medical conditions, Medications such as antibiotics, loperamide, bismuth subsalicylate, Fluid replacement, Avoid food such as dairy products and fatty food for several days, Making adjustments to the medications you are currently taking