How to Treat Diarrhea Symptoms

Diarrhea is the body' s natural way to eliminate toxic waste and materials. It can happen at any age and everyone will experience the condition at least once in their lifetime. Many factors can cause diarrhea and there are several different types of bacteria or germs that invade the body. Symptoms of diarrhea can be: bloating, fever, belly pain, headache, vomiting and cramps. This article will give some tips and advice to manage symptoms of diarrhea.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Diarrhea accompanied by vomiting causes severe dehydration to the body. It is vitally important to hydrate by drinking plenty of water or drinking ORS (over-the-counter rehydration solution) to replenish the body's electrolyte loss. ORS contain sugar and salt. They are available in stores as Pedialyte and ReVital.

2. Stay clear of solids if you are suffering from a bout of diarrhea. Drink clear soup or broth and stick with a clear, soft diet. Eat jello or light, clear foods to enable your bladder and bowels to take a rest. As you recover you can gradually introduce rice, bananas or yogurt to the diet.

3. Avoid carbonated drinks, since the gas they contain may worsen the diarrhea. Also avoid eating certain fruits and vegetables that may cause gas or bloating to the digestive system. For example, avoid or reduce the intake of beans, cabbage and brussel sprouts. Milk can aggravate a bout of diarrhea, so it is best avoided until you are completely recovered.

4. It is better to let the diarrhea take its full course and allow the body to naturally eliminate the toxic waste in the body. It is best not to take over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medication, but if you need to control the diarrhea, then taking OTCs like Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate or Imodium can give temporary relief.

Tips & Warnings

• Natural fiber-based laxatives for relieving constipation can help diarrhea. For example, Metamucil or Citrucel. They act by absorbing water from the body to form a gel in the intestines-this will make the diarrhea less runny.
• This article is not a substitute for seeking medical advice from your medical doctor or healthcare professional.

Resources

• Jewell Productions TV

[CBeatrix]

on 10/24/2008 Natural approach that everyone should know!
I would reach for drugs as a very last resort, if it really looks bad.

[AndrewB]

on 10/21/2008 Good article! For people over 50 this problem occurs more frequently and the advice is solid. 5 stars.