what to do if i have loose motion - #21840
I am really worried because I've been dealing with some loose motion for the past few days, and it’s driving me crazy! It started after I had some street food last weekend, and at first, I thought it was just a one-time thing or maybe my stomach reacting to something unusual. But here we are, day three, and nothing’s really changed. Like, I’ve had stomach cramps too, and I keep running to the bathroom, which is just so embarrassing when I'm at work! I tried drinking more water, thinking about dehydration or whatever, but it feels like nothing's helping. Should I just stick to plain rice and toast or what?? I read that probiotics can be good for this, but honestly, what to do if I have loose motion? Are there any specific foods or drinks I should avoid? I mean, if it doesn’t get better soon, should I go see a doctor? My coworker said sometimes it could mean an infection or something serious, but I don’t want to overreact. What are the signs that it's time to seek medical help when it comes to loose motion? Thanks for any advice!
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Doctors' responses
Loose motions, especially after eating street food, might be due to a viral or bacterial infection, commonly known as gastroenteritis, or it could just be your body reacting to unfamiliar ingredients. Initially, it’s important to focus on hydration; since you’ve already started drinking more water, that’s a step in the right direction. You can try oral rehydration solutions (ORS) which you can find at any drugstore—it helps replenish electrolytes lost. Consuming bland foods like rice, toast, or bananas can be soothing for your stomach and easier to digest, which you’ve noted. Avoid spicy, fatty, or dairy-based foods, as these can sometimes make symptoms worse. As for probiotics, research suggests they might help restore the gut’s natural flora disrupted during diarrheal episodes. They aren’t a magic fix but can be part of your strategy if you generally tolerate them well. Now, about when to see a doctor: if you notice you’re experiencing a fever above 101 degrees Fahrenheit, blood or pus in your stool, severe pain, or if these symptoms persist beyond a week, it’s time to seek medical attention. These could indicate a bacterial infection requiring antibiotics or another underlying issue. If you feel unusually weak or dehydrated despite attempts to rehydrate, don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare provider. Until then, keep monitoring your symptoms and give yourself some time to rest if possible. Remember that while it’s embarrassing, it’s also a very common problem and nothing to feel anxious about.
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