Symptoms
Frequent loose, watery stools
Abdominal cramps and pain
Urgent need to have a bowel movement
Nausea
Vomiting
Fever
Dehydration (signs include decreased urination, dry mouth, dizziness)
Causes
Viral infections (e.g., norovirus, rotavirus)
Bacterial infections (e.g., Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter)
Parasitic infections (e.g., Giardia, Cryptosporidium)
Food poisoning
Medications (e.g., antibiotics)
Food intolerances (e.g., lactose intolerance)
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) (e.g., Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis)
Medicine Used
Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS): To replace lost fluids and electrolytes.
Anti-diarrheal medications: Loperamide (Imodium) and bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) can help reduce the frequency of bowel movements. These are generally not recommended for children or people with certain conditions.
Antibiotics: Prescribed only if the diarrhea is caused by a bacterial infection.
Probiotics: May help restore the balance of gut bacteria.
Is Communicable
Yes, diarrhea can be communicable, especially when caused by viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections. These infections can spread through contaminated food or water, contact with infected individuals, or poor hygiene.
Precautions
Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the toilet and before preparing food.
Ensure food is cooked thoroughly, especially meat and poultry.
Avoid drinking untreated water.
Clean and disinfect surfaces, especially in bathrooms and kitchens.
If you have diarrhea, avoid preparing food for others.
Stay home from work or school until you have been symptom-free for at least 24 hours.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of a diarrhea outbreak varies depending on the cause. Viral diarrhea typically lasts for a few days (1-3 days). Bacterial diarrhea can last longer, potentially up to a week or more. Diarrhea caused by parasites may persist for several weeks if untreated.
How is it diagnosed?
Medical history and physical exam: A doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and travel history.
Stool test: A stool sample can be tested to identify the presence of bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
Blood tests: May be performed to check for dehydration or other complications.
Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy: In cases of chronic diarrhea, these procedures may be used to examine the colon.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline varies based on the cause:
Viral: Symptoms usually appear within 12-48 hours of exposure and last 1-3 days.
Bacterial: Symptoms may appear within a few hours to several days of exposure and can last up to a week or longer.
Parasitic: Symptoms can develop gradually over several days or weeks and may persist for an extended period if not treated.
Important Considerations
Dehydration is a serious complication of diarrhea, especially for infants, young children, and the elderly. Ensure adequate fluid intake.
Avoid sugary drinks, as they can worsen diarrhea.
Consult a doctor if you have severe diarrhea, bloody stools, high fever, or signs of dehydration.
If traveling to areas with poor sanitation, take extra precautions to avoid contaminated food and water.