Diarrhoea is an extremely common digestive symptom that almost everyone experiences at some point in their lives. Although it is usually harmless and clears up on its own within a few days, persistent or severe cases can lead to serious health problems. It is important to understand exactly what diarrhoea is, when to see a doctor, and how to prevent more serious complications. In this article, the Endomedix Gastroenterology Centre Our experts are here to help you understand issues relating to diarrhoea.
What exactly is diarrhoea?
Diarrhoea (diarrhoea) by definition three or more a day This refers to the passage of loose, mushy or watery stools (types 6 and 7 on the Bristol Stool Scale). The underlying cause of this symptom is increased intestinal motility or impaired absorption of fluids and electrolytes.
Categories by duration:
- Acute diarrhoea: It lasts for up to 14 days. It is usually caused by infections or food poisoning.
- Chronic diarrhoea: It persists for more than 30 days (approximately 4 weeks). It often indicates an underlying serious condition (e.g. IBD, malabsorption).
Possible causes of diarrhoea
1. Infections
- Viruses: Rotaviruses, noroviruses and adenoviruses (watery diarrhoea, vomiting, fever).
- Bacteria: Salmonella, Campylobacter, Shigella (occasionally bloody diarrhoea). Occurring after a course of antibiotics Clostridioides difficile It can be particularly dangerous.
- Parasites: Giardia lamblia or Entamoeba histolytica (travel to exotic destinations, poor hygiene).
2. Non-infectious causes
- Food intolerance: Lactose intolerance or coeliac disease.
- Drug side effects: Antibiotics, antacids, and magnesium-containing medicines.
- Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD): Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): Functional disorder (IBS-D type).
- Malabsorption disorders: Pancreatic insufficiency (steatorrhoea – steatorrhoea).
- Endocrine disorders: Hyperthyroidism or hormone-producing tumours.
Dangerous complications of diarrhoea
Dehydration
The most immediate risk is the loss of electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride).
- Symptoms: Dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness, low blood pressure, rapid pulse, and, in severe cases, confusion.
- Babies and the elderly are particularly at risk!
Malabsorption and malnutrition
Chronic diarrhoea impairs the absorption of nutrients, which leads to deficiency disorders:
- Iron deficiency: Anaemia, fatigue.
- Vitamin D and calcium deficiency: Osteoporosis.
- Vitamin B12 deficiency: Damage to the nervous system.
- Protein deficiency: Muscle wasting, oedema.
Other complications
- Worsening of the underlying condition: Intestinal strictures, fistulas or an increased risk of tumours (in cases of untreated coeliac disease/IBD).
- Kidney failure: The body’s detoxification function ceases due to severe dehydration.
When is it essential to see a doctor?
See a gastroenterologist immediately if you experience any of the following „alarm” you are experiencing the following symptoms:
- High fever (above 38.5 °C).
- Severe, cramping abdominal pain.
- Bloody or tarry, black stools.
- Severe signs of dehydration.
- Acute diarrhoea lasting more than 2 days, or chronic diarrhoea lasting 4 weeks.
- Significant weight loss or diarrhoea at night.
Prevention and home treatment
Prevention
- Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly before preparing food and after using the toilet.
- Food safety: Eat meat that has been cooked thoroughly and consume pasteurised dairy products. When travelling, drink only bottled water.
- Diet: In cases of known intolerance, strict adherence to the diet is required.
Home treatment (in mild cases)
- Fluid replacement: Water, sugar-free tea, oral rehydration solution (ORS).
- Diet: Boiled potatoes, rice, toast, bananas, steamed carrots. Avoid fatty, spicy foods and dairy products.
- Rest: Make sure you allow time to recover.
- Before using anti-diarrhoea medicines (e.g. loperamide), ask your doctor for advice, as they may prevent the pathogens from being passed out of the body if you have an infection.
Concluding thoughts
Diarrhoea can be a warning sign that may indicate serious, underlying illnesses. The Endomedix Gastroenterology Centre Our experienced team will help you with your assessment and in drawing up an effective treatment plan. Don’t put off your appointment if you have persistent symptoms!
