Interesting Facts About Diarrhea

In Cypress, thousands of people get diarrhea every year. It is a common problem that mostly resolves without medical intervention. However, it is the second most common cause of death in children. Over 1.5 million children under the age of 5 die from diarrhea every year. If you live in or around Cypress, diarrhea could be a problem for you, too. The following are a few interesting facts to keep in mind. 

1. It’s a Symptom, Not a Disease

Diarrhea may be a symptom of various health conditions. They include Crohn’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and bacterial infections. Usually, it is accompanied by symptoms such as stomach pain, fever, and vomiting. If you have diarrhea, consider seeking medical help as soon as possible. 

2. It Is Treatable

If you have diarrhea, you do not have to let it run its course. There are lots of ways to treat it at home without prescription medication. Your doctor may help you deal with diarrhea by addressing its cause. Colon cleansing may be great for curing diarrhea and other types of illnesses. You should, however, get your doctor’s opinion before using any colon-cleansing regimens. 

When treating diarrhea, the main goal is to get your bowel movements back to normal. You should drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Excessive dehydration could cause an imbalance of electrolytes or kidney damage. 

3. It’s Not Always a Sign of Illness

Even though viruses, parasites, and bacteria often cause diarrhea, you may have it without having an infection. Other causes of diarrhea include food additives, food allergies, stress, poor digestion, and chronic diseases. Lactose intolerance is a common cause of diarrhea. 

4. Coffee Makes It Worse

If you have diarrhea, avoid coffee, tea, chocolate, and soft drinks as they can make it worse. Caffeine stimulates the intestines. It speeds up digestion, causing faster bowel movements. Decaffeinated coffee may be bad as well. 

5. Sugary Foods Could Make It Worse

While sodas and sugary drinks may feel good when you have diarrhea, they can make it worse. The natural sugars in fruit are bad too. During digestion, sugar may draw fluids into the intestines. It makes your stool more dilute. The substitutes of sugar may have the same effect. 

6. Fiber May Help

Fibrous foods may help you treat the symptoms of diarrhea. They include oats, beans, peeled fruits, peas, and vegetables. Fiber-rich foods absorb water in your intestines, making your stool firmer. 

7. It May be a Sign of Teething

Teething may trigger diarrhea in babies. Other symptoms include crankiness, irritability, and fever. Let your pediatrician know about it as soon as possible. 

8. Some Drugs Cause Diarrhea

Some medications may cause diarrhea. If you are receiving treatment for cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, or depression, the medicine may cause diarrhea. If you suddenly have diarrhea after starting a new drug, you should consult your doctor as soon as possible. 

In conclusion, diarrhea is a fairly common problem. However, you should always get medical attention if it does not go away in a few days. If left untreated, it may cause dehydration.