loose motion stop - #19168
I am dealing with this really frustrating issue, and it's been going on for a few days now. I started feeling a bit off after eating at a friend's BBQ—super delicious, but now I'm not sure if it was the food or just something else? Anyway, I woke up one morning with loose motions that just wouldn't stop! I mean, it’s like I can't keep anything in. Have tried staying hydrated and eating bland foods, but the loose motions still show no sign of stopping! I did think about over-the-counter meds, but then read somewhere that might not be the best idea? I can't afford to be stuck at home feeling this way. I had to cancel plans with my kids, and now they're bummed out. I just want to know how to make these loose motions stop already! Are there any effective home remedies or something that’s generally safe? And is there a chance this could lead to something worse if I let these loose motions keep going? Am I missing something super obvious here? It's so annoying! Any advice would be super helpful! Thanks!
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Doctors' responses
Loose motions can indeed be quite frustrating and disruptive. When diarrhea persists for a few days, as in your case, it’s important to first ensure you’re not at risk for dehydration, which can be a serious consequence if fluid loss isn’t managed. Continue to stay well-hydrated—consider oral rehydration solutions or electrolyte beverages which are more effective than plain water. You mentioned bland foods, which is a great start. Stick to the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast) as it’s generally gentle on the digestive system, but you might want to add some plain yogurt with live cultures if tolerated, as probiotics can sometimes help restore gut bacteria balance.
Regarding medication, over-the-counter anti-diarrheal meds like loperamide can be helpful for short-term relief, but if you suspect a bacterial or parasitic infection, they may not be suitable. Monitor for other symptoms like fever, or blood in the stool—these could indicate something more serious that needs prompt medical attention. If diarrhea persists beyond a few days or if you develop signs of dehydration (such as dry mouth, dizziness, decreased urine), seeking medical evaluation would be wise. These persistent symptoms could lead to complications if left unchecked.
If this started after a BBQ, food poisoning is certainly a possibility, with common culprits including norovirus or salmonella, usually self-limiting but occasionally requiring intervention. In the meantime, keep stress to a minimum, as this can exacerbate symptoms. Finally, assess your fiber intake—both too much and too little can aggravate diarrhea, so finding a balance is key. Consider any other recent changes, such as new medications or supplements, which could be contributing.
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