Health Guide©

DIARRHEA (Travelers diarrhea)

Diarrhea, the frequent passing of loose and watery stool, is actually not a disease but a symptom of an underlying disorder; it usually clean up within a few days or as soon as the disorder is treated. The conditions are seldom dangerous in adults. (Some types of diarrhea are infectious.) The accompanying dehydration could be fatal in infants, small children, and the elderly.

For occasional loose stools, no medication is required. A clear liquid diet (for example, water or ginger ale) is the first thing to do for any diarrhea. This rests the bowel and replaces lost fluid. When diarrhea persists, products containing bismuth subsalicylate or attapulgite are often helpful. When these do not control the diarrhea, stronger agents containing substances such as paregoric may be needed. Long- tem diarrhea is a signal to consult with your physician.

Symptoms:

• Abnormally frequent bowel movement.
• Loose, watery stool.
• Abdominal cramps, which come and go in waves.
• Flatulence (excessive gas in the intestine).
• Fever.
• Nausea, vomiting.

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