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Treatment for diarrhoea

What is the treatment of diarrhoea
(November 1, 2010)

Diarrhoea Treatment

Diarrhea is a very common condition, affecting both adults as well as children. There are many different factors that can lead to diarrhea and the diarrhea treatment options may differ, based on these factors. At times diarrhoea treatment concentrates more on treating the underlying condition that is causing the problem. Some doctors may recommend certain antibiotics to treat instances of diarrhea, caused by bacteria or parasites. However, doctors do not find it necessary to administer diarrhoea treatment in most cases, because this affliction usually goes away on its own, without any help, if the immune system is strong enough to fight off the infection.


However, it is possible to reduce the symptoms of this condition by using certain home remedies as well as following a diarrhoea diet.

Diarrhoea What To Eat?

It is important to known the foods that should be eaten and the foods that should be avoided, in order to cure diarrhoea faster. The best foods to eat during diarrhea include:
• Bananas are bulky, filling and non-irritating for the digestive system, which makes them excellent for controlling diarrhea.
• Rice (plain) can have a calming and filling effect on the digestive system. It binds the foods in the digestive tract, slowing down the problem of diarrhea.
• Applesauce adds bulk to the stools and is easy to digest
• Toast is good for soaking up extra acid in the stomach and reduces the stomach’s tendency to produce excessive amounts of acid
• Tea helps soothe the stomach and ease the discomfort caused by diarrhea. Herbal teas, chamomile tea and peppermint tea have an excellent effect on the gastrointestinal tract.
• Yogurt contains helpful bacteria that help to restore the balance of bacteria in the digestive system.
• Plain crackers like soda crackers help to soak up stomach acids, which help in settling the stomach.
• Boiled potato adds bulk to the stools without aggravating the digestive system. 
• Boiled chicken is light, bland and is an excellent source of protein, thereby adding nutrients to the body and alleviating diarrhea at the same time.
• Plain pasta/ noodles consumed in very small portions may help bind the food in the digestive system

A BRAT Diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce & Toast/ Tea) has been recommended by certain health associations too, in case of diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome and other digestive problems.

People who are undergoing diarrhoea treatment are always asked to stay away from certain foods too, such as:
• Dairy products like milk, cheese, ice cream and butter, as these foods are difficult to digest because of which they could lead to additional gas, nausea and bloating problems.
• Sweets and foods that contain artificial sweeteners usually have the same effect on the body, as a laxative does. Such foods can increase bloating and gas problems in the body too.
• Certain vegetables like peas, beans, onions, broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage, as they cause gas in the system and could aggravate the problem of diarrhea.
• Beverages that carbonated or contain alcohol or caffeine can irritate the gastrointestinal tract even though they do not directly lead to diarrhea. They should be strictly avoided till the condition is completely cured.

Even though diarrhea is a very common problem, which can be treated at home, it is important to consult a doctor, in case it persists beyond three or four days, or if the home diarrhoea treatment options do not seem to improve the condition. In case the diarrhea is accompanied by black or bloody stools, severe abdominal pain, rectal pain, dehydration and high fever, it is imperative to visit a doctor without any delay.

Submitted by R B on November 1, 2010 at 06:18

 

Try these remedies for diarrhea -

  • To control diarrhea drink strong black coffee (without milk).
  • Boil cup water with added 2 tsp arrowroot powder in it. Drink this every 2-3 hours. This is a very effective remedy for diarrhea.
  • Avoid milk for few days instead drink buttermilk 3-4 times a day. The acid and micro flora in buttermilk will help fight with the bacteria and overcome harmful intestinal flora.
  • Pomegranates have astringent property in treating diarrhea. Eat pomegranate or drink pomegranate juice. 
  • Apples in stewed form are also useful in treating diarrhea.
  • Lost fluids should be compensated by drinking more water.
  • Eat soft, easily digestible foods; avoid spicy, fried/oily foods.
Submitted by S M on October 26, 2007 at 06:30

 

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