Diarrhea - When To Consult A Doctor?

Diarrhea is a very common condition, which is associated with the passage of the ingested fluids and foods through your colon more frequently than usual or in huge amounts. This condition is mostly caused by the action of viruses, parasites, bacteria, medications like antibiotics, certain digestive disorders, abdominal surgery, lactose intolerance, and consumption of an excessive amount of alcohol etc. Here are some of the common symptoms, which indicate that you are suffering from mild to moderate diarrhea:

1. Thirst
2. Dry or sticky mouth
3. Not urinating much
4. Darker yellow urine
5. Dry, cool skin
6. Headache
7. Muscle cramps

If you are suffering from a more serious form of diarrhea, you might also experience symptoms like:

1. Presence of mucus, blood and traces of undigested food in your stool
2. Fever
3. Not urinating, or very dark yellow or amber-colored urine
4. Dry, shriveled skin
5. Irritability or confusion
6. Dizziness or light-headedness
7. Rapid heartbeat
8. Rapid breathing
9. Sunken eyes
10. Listlessness
11. Shock (not enough blood flow through the body)
12. Unconsciousness or delirium

Diarrhea mostly gets cured even without consuming any medicines within a couple of days. However, you need to consult a doctor and get proper treatment for diarrhea in the following cases:

1. If you are continuously experiencing the condition for more than two days
2. Your stools contain blood or are black
3. Severe pain in the rectum or abdomen is bothering you
4. You experience signs of dehydration like excessive thirst, weakness, dizziness, dry mouth, urine of dark color or reduced frequency and amount of urination
5. Your body temperature exceeds 102 F (39 C)

Why is the urinary excretion important?

The urinary tract is important because it filters wastes and extra fluid from the bloodstream and removes them from the body. Normal, functioning kidneys

• prevent the buildup of wastes and extra fluid in the body
• keep levels of electrolytes, such as potassium and phosphate, stable
• make hormones that help regulate blood pressure
• make red blood cells
• keep bones strong

The ureters, bladder, and urethra move urine from the kidneys and store it until releasing it from the body.

Oral rehydration therapy (ORT) is a type of fluid replacement used to prevent and treat dehydration, especially that due to diarrhea. It involves drinking water with modest amounts of sugar and salts. Oral rehydration therapy can also be given by a nasogastric tube. Take 100-150ml of ORS or any other fluids like fresh juice, lemon water, coconut water, daal water, lassi and chaach can be taken as rehydration fluids. If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult a General Physician.