Diarrhea

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a condition characterized by loose, watery stool with more frequent bowel moments.diarrhea is usually self-limiting. However, if diarrhea persists for several weeks it is likely irritable bowel disorder or persistent infection or inflammatory bowel disease.

Symptoms

Symptoms include:DIARRHEA Symptoms Causes Treatment

  • Watery and loose stools
  • Abdominal pain
  • Cramping in abdomen
  • Fever
  • Blood or mucus in stool
  • Bloating
  • Nausea and vomiting
Causes

Following are the causes of diarrhea:

  • Viral infection which can be caused by norwalk virus, cytomegalovirus and viral hepatitis.
  • Bacterial and parasitic infections
  • Certain medications like antibiotics causes diarrhea
  • Lactose intolerance
  • Fructose
  • Abdominal or gallbladder removal surgeries
Diagnosis

Diagnosis of this condition depends upon detailed medical history and complete general physical examination of the patient. Other tests include:

  • Blood tests
  • Stool tests
  • Flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy
Treatment

Treatment options include:

  • Prescription of antibiotics
  • Taking fluid replacements to combat dehydration
  • oral rehydration solution is prescribed
  • Treating the underlying serious medical condition like inflammatory bowel syndrome
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