Since at least one of the viruses currently making the rounds includes diarrhea (and since it is something that happens to practically all of us sooner or later), I picked this common ailment to discuss today. Did you know that most of the time diarrhea is just your body trying to rid itself of something bad? This is why, in most cases, you shouldn’t try to stop diarrhea with tablets or liquids. Of course, if yours last more than 2 or 3 days, it is important to come see us or another doctor.
Drink lots of water — dehydration is a very serious consequence of diarrhea. Electrolytes like the minerals potassium and sodium are also lost. Try to sip 8 cups of cool (but not ice cold) fluids each day (up to 12 if you have a fever). Avoid apple juice and prune juice which already have a laxative effect. Try tea with chamomile (an anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic) and peppermint will increase its effectiveness.
Choose easy to digest foods — soup, Jell-O gelatin, rice, plain noodles, bananas, toast, plain crackers and skinless white chicken are great choices. Avoid most dairy, sugar and greasy foods. Avoid caffeine completely because it stimulates your body and that means your intestines too.
When to see the doctor:
In addition to having diarrhea for several days, see the doctor if there is blood in your stool, if you have a fever or shaking chills or if a health condition makes diarrhea dangerous for you. Absolutely see a doctor if you get dehydrated (symptoms of this are: dizziness, deep-yellow urine, increased thirst, dry skin… with kids, pay attention to any crying without tears).
If diarrhea comes along with cramps/pain, headache, nausea/vomiting AND a low fever, you probably have the flu.