Help For Diarrhea

Do you have watery, loose bowel movements that come in frequent urges? This is considered diarrhea. It can often be associated with stomach cramps, bloating, gas, abdominal pain and sometimes fever, depending on the cause. Diarrhea can be of many colors and forms, mostly loose, and can contain mucous. (Yes, this is gross)

The acute form is a common problem that usually lasts 1-2 days. The prolonged type will last for more than 2 days which can lead to dehydration if not treated. Chronic diarrhea could be a sign of a more serious disease.

It is important to know the cause of your symptoms. Many times it is associated with a virus or the result of bacteria in contaminated food or some sort of food poisoning. In addition, it can be caused by a parasite, which can make you feel deathly ill, or protozoan in water. Protozoan is a tiny, one-celled animal, mainly living in water, that can only be seen through a microscope.

Sometimes antibiotics, cancer medications, antacids or blood pressure medicine can cause an upset in the digestive system. Different intestinal diseases, such as colitis, Crohn's disease, inflammatory bowel disease or celiac disease can cause bouts with diarrhea. Irritable Bowel Syndrome, a functional bowel disorder, can also be a cause.

Since diarrhea can cause dehydration it important to prevent it before it happens. Knowing the signs of dehydration is critical. Look for: dry lips, dry mouth, fatigue, headache, flushed skin, darker urine color, irritability, cramps, nausea, and stiff joints.

To prevent dehydration be sure to drink plenty of liquids.The best rule of thumb is to alternate sports drinks with electrolytes and water when diarrhea has been a problem. Drinking 8 glasses of water a day is even more important at this time.

Now, let's look at some Home Remedies that will help:

• Drink the water from cooked white rice....my pediatrician, who is Indian born, recommended this when my children were younger.

• Grate an apple after it has turned brown then eat it.

• A fresh squeezed lemon in water, with baking soda added, will usually stop it.

• Eat yogurt. The live active cultures in yogurt help to restore the "good bacteria" in your digestive system. You will be regulated in no time.

• For children and adults the BRAT diet is recommended. BRAT stands for bananas, rice, applesauce and toast. This is especially good for 24 hours after an episode. These foods will help bulk the stool while restoring the digestive system.

• Drink herbal tea. It will help soothe the stomach. Green tea is especially good, which has a lot health benefits.

• A good "rule of thumb" is to remember to eat and drink only clear foods or drinks when affected by diarrhea.