How to Treat Diahrrea & Irritable Bowel Syndrome
One in five Americans suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Symptoms include gas, diarrhea or constipation, bloating, and abdominal pain. Stress, overeating, and a diet high in fat can worsen IBS symptoms. Some people also notice worse symptoms after eating certain foods.
Diarrhea is characterized by watery stool, usually more than 3 times per day. Bacteria, viruses, parasites, and certain medications including some antibiotics can cause diarrhea. It usually gets better on its own, but if you have a high fever, bloody stool, dizziness and severe cramping that lasts more than 3 consecutive days, consult your doctor. Diarrhea doesn't cause IBS, but it may be one of the symptoms.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
Managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome
-
1
Eat a balanced diet and avoid foods that seem to trigger symptoms. A diet high in fat and refined carbohydrates can worsen IBS symptoms.
-
2
Eat small meals throughout the day in place of 3 large meals.
-
-
3
Get regular exercise to manage stress.
-
4
If you're not sure what you have is IBS, consult your doctor. Your doctor may refer you to a gastroenterologist, order a blood test or a colonoscopy, and/or prescribe medication in addition to suggesting lifestyle changes.
Treating Diarrhea
-
5
Stay hydrated by drinking fluids with electrolytes (such as Gatorade or other sports drinks).
-
6
Eat light, healthy, small meals and avoid spicy, fatty foods while you still have symptoms.
-
7
Take an over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medicine such as Pepto-Bismol or Imodium to relieve symptoms. These won't 'cure' the diarrhea, but they may make your symptoms more tolerable.
-
8
Add probiotics to your diet to replenish your intestinal flora with good bacteria.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Certain probiotic strains have been shown to improve IBS symptoms in some people, including Bifidobacterium infantis 35624, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, VSL#3 (a blend of lactic acid bacteria), as well as others. Read more about specific strains in the Resources below.
Avoid caffeine and alcohol while you have diarrhea, as these are both dehydrating. If your child has diarrhea, call your pediatrician, as children may have special needs. For example: Don't give bismuth subsalicylate (Kaopectate, Pepto-Bismol) to children with the flu or chickenpox because of Reye's Syndrome risk.
