what to do in diarrhea - #17565
I am feeling really uneasy these days. It started a few days ago when I had this really spicy curry at a restaurant, and now I can't stop running to the bathroom. Like, seriously! I’ve been having diarrhea, and it's not fun at all. I didn't think much of it at first, thought maybe it was just food-related, but now I'm worried. I read somewhere that in diarrhea, you need to worry about dehydration too, and I’ve been trying to drink water but it’s tough to keep anything down. I even tried some bland food like rice and bananas, but the diarrhea didn’t let up. I googled what to do in diarrhea and saw a bunch of suggestions online – like avoid dairy and fatty foods, but what else should I really be doing? I mean, how long does this usually last? Should I be concerned enough to see a doctor or just ride it out? Really scared I might be missing something important since I feel drained and so tired. Oh, and also, should I take any medications? I’m worried this is gonna ruin my whole week, ugh! What to do in diarrhea is all I can think of right now!
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Doctors' responses
Experiencing diarrhea can definitely be a stressful situation, especially if it’s prolonged beyond a few days. Since you’ve associated your symptoms with a spicy curry, it’s possible that something in the meal triggered your symptoms, but persistent diarrhea raises a few concerns. Your primary focus should be on staying hydrated since dehydration is a real risk with diarrhea. Start with oral rehydration solutions available over the counter; they’re more effective than just water because they contain electrolytes that you need. Small sips frequently are better if you’re having trouble keeping liquids down. You also seem to be making wise dietary choices by reverting to bland foods like rice and bananas; you can also include applesauce and toast; this method is commonly referred to as the BRAT diet. Avoid rich, spicy, or fatty foods. Usually, diarrhea from mild infections or dietary indiscretions can last a few days, but since your symptoms are lingering, it’s a good idea to monitor for signs like high fever, blood in stools, or severe abdominal pain—these could indicate it’s time to seek medical advice. Over-the-counter medications like loperamide might help, but they’re not recommended if you have a fever or blood in the stools, as this might mask a more serious condition; again, would consult a healthcare professional before their use, especially if you’re not improving. Continue to get rest and monitor your symptoms closely. If you begin to feel very dizzy, lightheaded, or your heart is racing, these might be signs of dehydration, and you should seek medical attention without delay. If nothing improves in another day or two, or if you notice the warning signs mentioned, checking in with a healthcare professional would be wise to rule out potential other causes like infections that may need specific treatment.
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