Diarrhoeal Infection and The Reasons Causing it

Diarrhoea is one of the most common infections around the world. Poor personal hygiene can act as a trigger for any infection and diarrhoea isn't any different. Kids are prone to diarrhoea as their lifestyle and eating habits keep them at risk of infections. Let's understand what is diarrhoea first and are there any main triggers for it. Unexpected loose and watery bowel movements which are forced 3 or more times in a day are known as diarrhoea. From food intolerance, infection to intestinal disorders, diarrhoea can be a result of anything. Most of the times it's just something that didn't sit well in the stomach and only lasts for a day or two. In case of severe diarrhoea symptoms chances are it is a result of a disorder. We've put down the main causes of diarrhoea, so you can make sure to look out for them.

• Infection: Infections aren't new and the main reason for a virus to spread is by eating or drinking contaminated food or water. Bacteria – such as Salmonella, or a parasite – such as Cryptosporidium are usually responsible for the diarrhoeal infection.
• Food intolerance: You can experience diarrhoea symptoms if you consume artificial sweeteners or foods containing fructose at times. People allergic to some foods can also experience diarrhoea as a symptom.
• Bowel conditions: These are much severe conditions, where people with disorders like inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease), coeliac disease or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) experience diarrhoea as a symptom.
• Medicines: Medicines/antibiotics can also have side effects at times. They disrupt the balance in your gut resulting in diarrhoea symptoms. In rare cases, antacids and diabetes tablets can also trigger diarrhoea.

Diarrhoea in young children is very common. Rotavirus infection is one such cause, hence, parents need to keep an eye on their child and their hygiene habits. Now let's look at how can you identify the diarrhoea symptoms. We've put down a few common symptoms.

The watery bowel movements are often accompanied by other symptoms, such as:

• Nausea
• Fever
• Bloating
• Thirst
• Painful abdominal cramps
• Fatigue
• Light-headedness
• Dehydration

At times, children show different diarrhoea symptoms due to severe dehydration. The signs to look for are sunken eyes, cheeks or belly. Children and elders can experience rapid dehydration, in such a case, please seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Diarrhoea treatment & prevention

There's no specific treatment available for diarrhoea. Usually, the body treats itself in a day or two. Dehydration is the most common symptom experienced during diarrhoea. Drink as much water as you can to keep your bodily fluids at a healthy level. Loss of fluids can open door to other problems, so it's best to steer clear of it. Stick to a diet until the diarrhoea symptoms last. BRAT diet is often suggested by doctors, it consists of Bananas, Rice, Applesauce or apple without the skin, Toast. Probiotics help as well- natural probiotics like buttermilk or yoghurt helps you regain the lost fluids. If you don't like natural probiotics, you can switch to probiotic supplements like Enterogermina. If you're travelling, avoid any contaminated food or water as it can only worsen your condition. Coming to prevention avoid consuming food or water/fluids from unhygienic places to prevent any infections. Keep a hand sanitizer bottle handy to maintain hygiene.

Though diarrhoea doesn't last long, there are a few times when it might. In such cases, contact your doctor or medical professional immediately for the proper diagnosis of the condition.