What Is Diarrhoea?
Diarrhoea occurs when the digestive system is disrupted, leading to an increased frequency of bowel movements with loose, watery stools. This happens because the intestines cannot absorb water from the stool effectively. It can be an acute, short-term issue or a chronic condition lasting for weeks or longer.
What Are the Common Causes of Diarrhoea?
A wide range of factors can cause diarrhoea. Some of the common causes include:
- Viral Infections – Viruses like rotavirus, norovirus, and adenovirus are common culprits of acute diarrhoea, especially in children. These infections can spread easily through contaminated food, water, or contact with infected individuals.
- Bacterial Infections – Bacteria like Escherichia coli (E. coli), Salmonella, and Campylobacter are responsible for food poisoning and travellers’ diarrhoea. Contaminated food, undercooked meat, and poor hygiene practices can lead to bacterial infections.
- Parasitic Infections – Parasites like Giardia lamblia and Entamoeba histolytica can cause diarrhoea, especially in regions with poor sanitation or contaminated water sources.
- Food Intolerances – Some individuals may lack certain enzymes necessary to digest certain foods, such as lactose in dairy products or gluten in wheat. Consuming these foods can lead to gastrointestinal upset and diarrhoea.
- Medications – Certain medications, especially antibiotics, can disrupt the natural balance of gut bacteria, leading to diarrhoea as a side effect.
- Food Poisoning – Eating contaminated or spoiled food can result in diarrhoea as the body tries to eliminate harmful substances.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) – Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can cause chronic diarrhoea due to inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Stress and Anxiety – Emotional stress can affect digestion and lead to diarrhoea in some individuals.
- Traveller’s Diarrhea – Traveling to new or foreign destinations exposes individuals to different bacteria and viruses, increasing the risk of diarrhoea.
- Overconsumption of Caffeine or Alcohol – Excessive intake of caffeine or alcohol can irritate the digestive system and lead to diarrhoea.
While most cases of diarrhoea are self-limiting and resolve on their own, persistent or severe diarrhoea should be evaluated by a doctor to identify the underlying cause and determine the appropriate treatment.
How Does Diarrhoea Feel Like?
Diarrhoea can be uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life. Experiencing it can be uncomfortable and distressing. Here’s how it might feel:
- Frequent Bowel Movements – Diarrhoea is characterised by an increased frequency of bowel movements. Instead of the usually formed stools, individuals with diarrhoea pass loose, watery stools multiple times a day.
- Urgency – There is often a sense of urgency to have a bowel movement. It may feel like an immediate need to find a bathroom, as the body is expelling stool rapidly.
- Abdominal Discomfort – Diarrhoea is commonly accompanied by abdominal discomfort or cramps. These cramps may vary in intensity and are temporarily relieved after passing stool.
- Bloating and Gas – Some people experience bloating and increased gas along with diarrhoea. This can contribute to feelings of discomfort and fullness in the abdomen.
- Weakness and Fatigue – Diarrhoea can lead to dehydration, especially if significant fluid loss occurs. This may cause weakness, fatigue, and a general feeling of unwellness.
- Dehydration – Prolonged diarrhoea or severe cases can cause dehydration, leading to excessive thirst, dry mouth, reduced urine output, and dizziness.
- Nausea and Vomiting – In some cases, diarrhoea may be accompanied by feelings of nausea and vomiting, further adding to the discomfort.
When to Seek Medical Help?
While many cases of diarrhoea are mild and resolve on their own, there are certain situations where seeking medical help is important. Here are some guidelines on when to seek medical assistance for diarrhoea:
- Severe Dehydration – If diarrhoea is accompanied by signs of dehydration, such as excessive thirst, dark urine, dry mouth, dizziness, or lightheadedness, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Dehydration can be especially concerning for infants, young children, older adults, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
- Persistent Diarrhoea – A medical evaluation is warranted if diarrhoea lasts more than a few days or is not improving with home remedies. Chronic diarrhoea can indicate an underlying condition that requires proper diagnosis and management.
- Bloody Stools – If you notice blood in the stool, it could indicate a more serious issue, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or an infection. Immediate medical attention is necessary to identify the cause and initiate appropriate treatment.
- High Fever – If diarrhoea is accompanied by a fever of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher, it may suggest an infection requiring medical evaluation and potential antibiotic treatment.
- Severe Abdominal Pain – If the abdominal pain associated with diarrhoea is intense and persistent, it could be a sign of a more significant problem and a doctor’s evaluation is recommended.
- Recent Travel – If you have recently travelled to a foreign country and developed diarrhoea, especially if it is severe or bloody, it’s crucial to seek medical help as you may have contracted a travel-related infection.
- Underlying Health Conditions – If you have a weakened immune system or pre-existing health conditions, such as diabetes or kidney disease, diarrhoea can pose a higher risk. In these cases, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional.
- Elderly or Young Children – Infants, young children, and elderly individuals are more vulnerable to complications from diarrhoea due to their weaker immune systems. If they develop diarrhoea, they must consult a doctor promptly.
What Are the Diagnostic Procedures to Identify Causes?
When seeking medical help for diarrhoea, a doctor may inquire about the individual’s symptoms, medical history, and recent activities (e.g., travel, food consumption). They may also perform a physical examination. Depending on the case, further diagnostic tests like stool analysis, blood tests, or imaging studies might be necessary to identify the specific cause of diarrhoea and guide appropriate treatment.
Why It’s Important to Share Detailed Symptoms With the Doctor?
Sharing detailed symptoms with the doctor is essential because diarrhoea can have various underlying causes, and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. By providing comprehensive information about the symptoms experienced, when they started, and any potential triggers, individuals can help their doctors make a more accurate assessment and provide appropriate care. Additionally, early identification of severe cases or certain infections can prevent complications and ensure a faster recovery.
