Preventing and Treating Acute Diarrhea : Your online pharmacy selection

What is acute diarrhea?
Acute diarrhea is a medical condition characterized by an increase in stool frequency and a decrease in stool consistency, usually liquid or soft. It occurs suddenly and usually lasts less than two weeks. It is often caused by an infection due to bacteria, viruses or parasites.

What are the main causes of acute diarrhea?
The most common causes of acute diarrhea include:

• Bacterial infections: such as those caused by Escherichia coli, Salmonella or Campylobacter.
• Viral infections: such as norovirus or rotavirus.
• Parasitic infections: Giardia lamblia being a common example.
• Food poisoning: often linked to the consumption of contaminated or poorly preserved food.

How can acute diarrhea be prevented?
The prevention of acute diarrhea can be facilitated by several practices:

• Hand washing: wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the toilet.
• Food hygiene: make sure food is well cooked and kept at appropriate temperatures.
• Drinking water: drink water from safe sources or treated to avoid contamination.

What treatments are recommended for acute diarrhea?
Treatment of acute diarrhea is primarily aimed at preventing dehydration. Recommendations include

• Hydration: drink plenty of fluids, such as oral rehydration solutions or water.
• Diet: follow a gentle diet, favoring easily digestible foods such as rice, bananas, potatoes and bread.
• Medication: antidiarrheal drugs can be prescribed by a doctor if necessary.

When should I consult a doctor about acute diarrhoea?
It is advisable to consult a doctor if the diarrhea is accompanied by severe symptoms such as :

• Dehydration: signs such as excessive thirst, dry mouth, decreased urinary frequency.
• Fever: high body temperature.
• Blood in stools: presence of visible blood or black stools.
• Intense abdominal pain: may indicate a more serious condition.

What are the symptoms of acute diarrhea?
Symptoms of acute diarrhea can vary, but generally include:

• Increased number of bowel movements: more than three a day.
• Watery or loose stools: noticeable change in stool consistency.
• Urgency or inability to control bowel movements: urgent need to go to the bathroom.
• Abdominal cramps or pain: discomfort or pain in the abdomen.
• Nausea and vomiting: especially if the infection is viral or bacterial in origin.

Are children more at risk of acute diarrhea?
Yes, children are particularly vulnerable to acute diarrhea because of their less-developed immune systems. Viral infections such as rotavirus are common causes in young children. It is crucial to ensure proper hydration and medical follow-up in the event of signs of dehydration or persistent diarrhea.

How is acute diarrhea diagnosed?
Acute diarrhea can be diagnosed by a healthcare professional, who will assess symptoms, medical history and, if necessary, perform stool tests. These tests can help identify the causative pathogen, whether bacterial, viral or parasitic.

Can probiotics be used to treat acute diarrhoea?
Probiotics are sometimes recommended to restore natural intestinal flora and reduce the duration of diarrhea. They can be particularly useful after an infection or antibiotic treatment. However, it's important to consult a doctor before starting any probiotic treatment to make sure it's right for your specific situation.

Can acute diarrhea be a sign of more serious conditions?
Although often benign, acute diarrhea can sometimes indicate more serious conditions such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, or even more severe infections like cholera. If diarrhea persists for more than a few days, or is accompanied by alarming symptoms such as blood, high fever or intense abdominal pain, it is essential to consult a health professional immediately.