Diarrhoea

Overview

Diarrhoea means passing loose or watery stools, usually more than three times a day. Most episodes are acute (lasting a day or two) and caused by a viral infection or food contamination, settling with hydration and simple care. Diarrhoea that persists beyond a few days, recurs frequently, or comes with blood, fever or weight loss needs investigation for causes such as bacterial infection, IBS, inflammatory bowel disease or malabsorption.

Common causes

• Viral gastroenteritis — the commonest cause of acute diarrhoea.
• Food poisoning and bacterial infection.
• Contaminated water or food.
• Medicines, including some antibiotics.
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
• Inflammatory bowel disease and malabsorption, for persistent cases.
• Food intolerances.

Hydration and self-care

The most important measure in acute diarrhoea is hydration — taking frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration solution. Continue eating light, bland food as tolerated. Avoid fatty, spicy and very sweet foods, and limit milk products temporarily. Most acute episodes settle without antibiotics, which are not needed for viral diarrhoea and can themselves cause diarrhoea.

Evaluation and investigations

Evaluation reviews the duration, frequency, stool character, fever and any blood or weight loss. A stool examination is arranged when infection is suspected or diarrhoea persists. Blood tests and, for persistent or recurrent cases, a colonoscopy may be needed to look for IBS, inflammatory bowel disease or other causes.

Management

Management focuses on hydration and treating the cause. Antibiotics are used only when a specific bacterial cause is confirmed or strongly suspected — not routinely. Persistent or recurrent diarrhoea is investigated and treated according to the underlying condition. For related infection content, see Acute Gastroenteritis and Food Poisoning, and the Fever & Infectious Diseases service.

Warning signs — seek urgent care

• Blood in the stool or black, tarry stools.
• High fever with diarrhoea.
• Signs of dehydration — dizziness, reduced urine, dry mouth, weakness.
• Severe abdominal pain.
• Diarrhoea persisting beyond a few days, or recurrent without a clear cause.

How we help

Dr. Nayak identifies the cause of diarrhoea, manages hydration, uses antibiotics appropriately, and investigates persistent or recurrent cases. Consultations are available in-clinic in Bhubaneswar and over teleconsultation.

Related conditions and patient concerns

• Acute Gastroenteritis
• Food Poisoning
• Change in Bowel Habits
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Blood in Stool
• Fever & Infectious Diseases