How To Treat Diarrhea
Treating diarrhea can help you feel better faster and help address the symptoms associated with diarrhea. Treatment options range from proper hydration to considering an over-the-counter anti-diarrheal aid.
Stay Hydrated
Diarrhea can quickly dehydrate a person because of the fluid loss, so it’s important to replenish with liquids frequently. The type of drink matters, though. Drink plenty of clear fluids, like water, to prevent the dehydration caused by diarrhea.
If you happen to be traveling abroad and have traveler’s diarrhea, remember to drink only bottled beverages, as tap water may be the cause of your symptoms.
Other drinks suitable for a person with diarrhea symptoms include replenishing drinks like Pedialyte or other drinks with electrolytes. Losing a substantial amount of fluids via diarrhea usually also causes a loss in electrolytes and other nutrients. Replenishing these, especially with prolonged bouts of diarrhea, can be important to your treatment and overall health.
Watch Your Diet
It might seem helpful to avoid eating, but it’s not necessary and not advisable. It’s best to make sure to eat in order to receive the calories necessary to renew enterocytes, or cells found in the small intestine that aid with digestion. While affected with diarrhea, it’s best to eat easily digested foods like applesauce, bananas, crackers and toast.
Probiotic bacteria and yeasts with immune system-stimulating properties have been found to alleviate symptoms of diarrhea, offering benefits of shortened diarrheic episodes by up to 36 hours. Examples of where probiotics can be found include kombucha, sauerkraut, yogurt and probiotic powder and pills.
Avoid Triggers
Not partaking in certain foods and drinks can help avoid potentially worsened symptoms. Some of these triggers include:
Caffeine: Beverages with caffeine, like coffee and some sodas, can quicken the digestive system, worsening diarrhea.
Alcohol: Any drink with alcohol will have similar effects as caffeine and can worsen symptoms.
Dairy products: Transient lactaid deficiency can be caused by various infections and symptoms can compound a sufferer’s already uncomfortable symptoms
Other triggers and situations that can cause diarrhea
Try an OTC Anti-Diarrheal To Ease Symptoms
For controlling diarrhea symptoms, you can take an over-the-counter anti-diarrheal, like IMODIUM® A-D Caplets or IMODIUM® Multi-Symptom Relief Caplets. Please refer to product labeling before use. If symptoms get worse or diarrhea lasts more than two days, seek the help of a healthcare professional.
Check out IMODIUM® products to find one that might work for you and your diarrhea symptoms.
