what to do during loose motion - #17182
I am having a really tough time lately with loose motion. At first, I thought it was just something I ate, but it’s been non-stop for a few days now. Like, I can't even remember the last time I had a normal bowel movement! Super annoying! I’ve tried drinking more water and even some electrolyte drinks to stay hydrated, but it seems like nothing helps much. I was wondering, what to do during loose motion? I’ve read so many different things online. Some say avoid dairy, others mention rice or bananas as good foods to eat. But honestly, I can’t keep any food down without feeling sick right after. There was this one time I thought I would be okay, and I grabbed a small snack, and bam! back to the bathroom. It’s frustrating! Should I just stick to clear liquids or is it better to eat something bland? I even started jotting down what I ate before this started, but like, I'm just confused about what to do during loose motion really! And if this keeps going on, how do I know when it’s time to see a doctor? Any tips or advice would be really appreciated, cause I’m just tired of this whole situation.
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Doctors' responses
Dealing with loose motions can be quite disrupting, and it sounds like you’re experiencing it on a pretty constant basis, which is certainly concerning. The first step is to ensure you’re hydrated, as you’ve already started to do with water and electrolyte drinks, which is key in preventing dehydration. Avoid caffeinated or sugary beverages as they can worsen diarrhea. It’s great that you’re considering dietary modifications, but as you mention having trouble keeping food down, transitioning to easily digestible foods might be beneficial. The BRAT diet is often recommended for these situations—bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast—as they’re gentle on the stomach. If solid food feels too much, sticking to clear liquids temporarily can help stabilize you. Broths and herbal teas are soothing options. Also, try to avoid fatty foods, dairy, and heavily spiced meals, as these may aggravate symptoms. More importantly, over-the-counter options like loperamide might be considered, but only if your symptoms are not caused by a bacterial infection, as antidiarrheal medications can sometimes prolong underlying infections.
When should you consider seeing a doctor? If the diarrhea persists beyond a few days, especially if you notice a high fever, significant abdominal pain, or signs of dehydration (like dizziness, dry mouth, little or no urination), seek medical attention promptly. Bloody stools or if you’re experiencing an accompanying fever might suggest an infectious cause, which requires a proper diagnosis and may need antibiotics. An underlying medical condition like IBS or a malabsorption disorder could also explain persistent loose motions, so it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation. Meanwhile, keep monitoring your symptoms, and maintaining a symptom diary could be helpful when discussing with your doctor. Remember, persistent or severe cases of diarrhea always warrant a professional medical assessment.
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