DIARRHOEA -- Common Medical Advice

General Information

The causes of diarrhea vary and may include a change in diet, food intolerance (e.g., lactose), inflammatory bowel disorder, drug-induced (anti-biotics, magnesium-containing antacids), a bacterial infection (food poisoning), or a viral infection (rotavirus in children).

Diarrhea may be accompanied by abdominal cramps, vomiting, or fever People with diarrhea, especially the very young and the elderly, are at risk of becoming rapidly dehydrated, which may be fatal at times. This requires immediate medical attention.

Signs and Symptoms

• Stools are watery, green, foul-smelling, explosive, and are Occasionally tinged with blood or mucus.
• Stomach pain
• Cramps
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Red rash around the anus

Advice to the Customers

• Avoid sodas or other drinks high in glucose since its sugar content may draw fluid into the gut thereby worsening the condition.
• Do not give only clear fluids you can also add electrolyte and fluid rehydration solutions.
• After 24 hours, eat only bland, dry foods. Avoid grains and uncooked fruit and vegetables. Fatty food and dairy products may only be eaten after 48 hours seek medical advice.
• Children may experience lactose intolerance (unable to digest milk sugars) for some time after diarrhea has settled. In this case, reintroduce milk products gradually.
• Avoid spreading the condition. Wash hands after each bowel movement, before eating, or during the preparation of food.

Prescription Advice

• Instruct the patient on the medication and how to use it properly, i.e. name of the medication, frequency of dosage, etc.
• Inform the patient about the possibility of side effects caused by certain anti-diarrhoeal agents.
• In cases where diarrhea has not improved in two days, instruct the patient to consult a physician
• Discuss advice to the customers thoroughly for more information on the prevention and management of diarrhea.