Diarrhea

Diarrhea is something we all are most likely going to deal with at some point. Diarrhea occurs when a person is having loose watery stools more frequently than usual. With diarrhea you may also have cramps, bloating, and nausea. Diarrhea can be caused by many different sources. These include, bacterial or viral infections, some medications, intolerance to foods, foods which have laxative effects, or diseases of the digestive tract.

Diarrhea is common, but can become serious. Dehydration is a big factor that needs to be monitored while one is having diarrhea. Drink fluids often to prevent dehydration. Some symptoms of dehydration are: decreased or no urination, tiredness, lethargy or change in mental status, excessive thirst, dry mouth, extreme weakness, or lightheadedness. If this occurs go to you see your doctor. Dehydration can develop more rapidly in children and can be more severe. If your child is having any of these symptoms, have them seen right away.

Other times to see a doctor include if diarrhea persists for more than three days, 24 hours for children, any kind of bloody or black bowel movements, if there is a fever above 102 F, any severe pain of abdomen or rectum, children with a sunken appearance to any part of their face or abdomen, or no tears when crying. With children watch how much they are urinating, or in infants check their diapers.


Information from the NDDIC. For more information click here.....NDDIC

Why is the amount of urine so important?

The bowels absorb fluid and it ends up in the bloodstream. The kidneys take water and other substances from the blood stream and put it into the bladder where you will eventually empty it through urination. If the kidneys can tell there is not enough water in your blood to take out it wont take it out and thus you won't be urinating very much. And if the kidney's can tell there isn't enough water to take out, then the rest of your body doesn't have the amount of water that it needs too. This is dehydration.


Side note: As always if you ever have any questions or concerns do not hesitate to contact your doctor.