Diarrhea
Alternative Names:
Dysentery, the runs, the trots
Definition:
Diarrhea is defined as more than three loose, watery stools in one day usually accompanied by abdominal cramping. Diarrhea is usually not harmful, but can become dangerous or identify a more serious problem when symptoms last for an extended period of time. Diarrhea can be especially dangerous in children. Do not hesitate to call your doctor if your child has diarrhea.
Symptoms:
Patients who have diarrhea may experience the following symptoms:
- Frequent, loose, watery stools
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Urgent need to have a bowel movement
- Uncomfortable feeling around the anus
- Inability to control bowels
- Chills
- Abdominal swelling
Adults should seek medical attention if they experience any of the following serious diarrhea symptoms:
- Diarrhea continues for more than three days
- Severe abdominal or rectal pain
- Bloody or black stools
- Dehydration despite substantial fluid consumption
- Excessive dehydration
- A fever above 102 degrees
Diarrhea can be much more detrimental to children. Call your doctor if your child’s diarrhea does not improve with 24 hours or if they experience the following symptoms:
- Has not had a wet diaper in more than three hours
- A fever above 102 degrees
- Dry mouth
- Crying without tears
- Is unusually sleepy, drowsy, unresponsive, or irritable
- Sunken appearance to the abdomen, eyes, or cheeks
- Skin that does not return to normal if pinched and released
Exams/Testing:
Your doctor may perform a physical exam to determine the cause of your diarrhea symptoms and to decide if you are dehydrated. Make sure to inform your doctor of all prescription and over-the-counter medications you may be taking. The following diagnostic tests may be completed for patients with severe symptoms:
- Blood or stool tests to look for bacteria, parasites, or other signs of disease or infection
- Fasting tests to determine if the diarrhea is caused by eating a particular food
- Sigmoidoscopy - exam inside the rectum and part of the colon
- Colonoscopy – an entire exam of the colon
Outlook/Prognosis:
Replenishing lost fluid and salts is usually the only needed treatment for diarrhea. The following treatments may help ease your diarrhea symptoms:
- Antibiotics – if diarrhea is caused by a parasitic infection
- Adjusting medications – antibiotics may cause symptoms of diarrhea
- Treating an underlying condition – untreated or undiagnosed conditions may be the cause of your diarrhea
- Replacing fluids – Adults should consume broth, soup, fruit juices, soft fruits, or vegetables. Children should drink liquids with additional nutrient benefits, like Pedialyte, Ceralyte, or Infalyte
Causes (specific drugs):
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