Types, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

Diarrhoea is one of the most common health problems. According to data by World Gastroenterology, the world witnesses more than 2 billion cases of diarrhoea every year. It also states that in most developing countries, approximately 2 million children below the age of 5 years succumb to this disease.

 

What is Diarrhoea?

 

Diarrhoea is the discharge of loose stool, almost watery in consistency. It is usually caused by parasites, viruses, and bacteria.

The most common cause of this health complaint is the bacteria Salmonella. Other bacteria like Campylobacter, Shigella, and Escherichia coli are also known to cause this issue. 

In some cases, diarrhoea can occur due to issues in the functioning of the digestive system. This condition is called functional diarrhoea. IBS or irritable bowel syndrome is the most common cause of functional diarrhoea. There are many symptoms of IBS like altered bowel habits, abdominal pain, cramps, etc. It can include diarrhoea as well. 

 

There are Some Other Major Reasons for Diarrhoea as Well. Some of them are:

 

- Chronic Infections:

 

Various bacteria, parasites, a lot of travelling and consumption of antibiotics can result in chronic diarrhoea.

 

 

- Cancer-Related Causes :

 

Cancers, especially gut cancers, can lead to neoplastic diarrhoea.

 

 

- Drug-Induced Diarrhoea :

 

Laxative, antibiotics, and other drugs can lead to diarrhoea.

 

 

- Endocrine-Related Causes :

 

Hormone-related issues, like carcinoid tumours and Addison’s disease, can be the cause of this disease as well.

 

 

- Malabsorption and Maldigestion Diarrhoea :

 

Impaired nutrient absorption and digestive function, respectively, can be the cause of these types of diarrhoea.

 

 

- Microscopic Colitis :

 

This is a type of diarrhoea that can occur because of inflammation in the body. It often occurs in adults and during the night.

 

Diarrhoea Types

 

There are various Diarrhoea types:

 

1. Acute:

 

This is one of the most commonly occurring diarrhoea, resulting in watery stool. It typically lasts for a day or two and doesn't require treatment.

 

 

2. Persistent :

 

As the name suggests, this type of diarrhoea lasts longer, usually between two and four weeks. You will need to consult a physician and keep your body hydrated.

 

 

3. Chronic:

 

This is the type of diarrhoea that persists beyond four weeks or keeps recurring regularly over a period of time. It could be a symptom of an underlying disease. You should immediately consult a doctor in this case of diarrhoea.

 

Diarrhoea Symptoms

 

Listed below are some of the symptoms you might experience :

 

In case of Mild Diarrhoea:

 

·      Cramps and bloating in the stomach

·      Nausea

·      Frequent need for bowel movement

 

In case of Severe Diarrhoea:

 

·      Vomiting

·      Dehydration

·      Dizziness

·      Weight loss

·      Fever

 

You might experience some or all the symptoms.

 

Diarrhoea Diagnosis

 

You should immediately consult your doctor if your stool is:

 

·      Black and tarry

·      Contains pus or blood

·      Greasy and oily, even if you are not eating oily and fatty food

·      Foul-smelling

 

Your doctor might advise you on a few tests for diagnosing the diarrhoea and underlying issues causing it.

Your doctor might ask for your family, medical and travelling history, along with details about any sick friends you might have contacted. They can advise you to take a stool test to check for the presence of viruses, bacteria, and other parasites.

You might also need to take a breath test for diagnosing fructose or lactose intolerance or bacterial overgrowth that might be causing the diarrhoea.

Sometimes a disease like a thyroid, pancreatic disorder, celiac sprue, etc., might also cause this problem. Your doctor might suggest a blood test to rule them out or diagnose them.

 

Diarrhoea Treatment and Management

 

Usually, mild diarrhoea goes away on its own, and over-the-counter medicines can treat persistent diarrhoea. However, in the case of chronic diarrhoea or one caused by parasites, you will need to see a doctor.

 

There are a few different treatments for diarrhoea

 

 

1. Antibiotics:

 

If diarrhoea is caused by parasites, your healthcare provider will prescribe you some antibiotics.

 

 

2. Medication for a Specific Condition :

 

Diarrhoea could be a symptom of other diseases like IBS or IBD. Once the issue behind diarrhoea is identified, your doctor will prescribe medicine for treating the disease-causing diarrhoea.

 

 

3. Probiotics :

 

Probiotics are known to improve your gut health and can be useful in combating diarrhoea caused by bacteria and other parasites.

 

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