Diarrhea is characterized by large and loose watery stools needing frequent bowel emptying. Diarrhea affects all age groups across the globe especially in the developing countries.

Diarrhea is caused by various viruses, bacteria and certain intestinal parasites. Also in some persons as an allergic reaction to certain foods and medicines. Infective diarrheas may at times be associated with blood or mucus in the stools.

Sources of Infection:

  1. Improperly Pasteurized dairy products
  2. Undercooked poultry and seafood
  3. Lack of personal hygiene – like handwashing with soap water while handling food and before eating
  4. Sewage contamination of drinking water supply
  5. Crowded accommodation in dormitories, day cares, schools etc.

Diarrheas may be acute which last for 1-2 days and are self limiting. Chronic diarrheas are because of certain intestinal diseases and may be persisting for more than 4 weeks.

Watery Diarrhea

Infective Diarrheas are associated with fever, body pains, abdominal cramps and dehydration. In children dehydration needs immediate attention and medical advice is necessary. Similarly in elderly people and people with immune compromised state must be treated immediately.

Decreased activity, decreased urine output and sunken eyes are indications of dehydration.

Cause of diarrhea must be diagnosed for specific line of treatment.

When to take medical advice?

  1. Diarrhea lasting for more than 2 days and associated with dehydration,
  2. Fever and body pains persisting,
  3. Small infants and elderly with chronic ailments are affected with diarrhea
  4. Immune compromised person.                                                                        

Tests for a person with diarrhea-

  1. Complete blood picture
  2. Complete stool examination
  3. Stool culture
  4. Serum Electrolytes
  5. Serum Creatinine
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