Diarrhea, also known as loose motions is a common digestive disorder prevalent in people of all age groups worldwide. Frequent passage of watery stools is the hallmark symptom of Diarrhea. It is usually an acute condition however in certain cases, it can lead to significant discomfort and serious health complications due to dehydration. The severity of diarrhea depends upon the underlying causative factor and immunity of the individual.
What causes Diarrhea?
Diarrhea or loose motions can be caused by various factors such as:
- Infections – Viral, parasitic or bacterial infections arising from contaminated food and water are the most common causes of diarrhea. Infections with E. coli, Salmonella and Rotavirus are most prevalent and lead to acute gastroenteritis and typhoid respectively.
- Food Intolerance arising from gluten, lactose and other food allergies also lead to loose motions.
- Certain medications like antibiotics and laxatives, often disrupt the gut bacteria and cause diarrhoea.
- Chronic digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis and crohn’s disease are the predominating causes of chronic diarrhoea.
- Emotional stress and anxiety can also cause diarrhoea in some individuals.
What are the symptoms of Diarrhea?
- Frequent and watery loose motions
- Abdominal pain and bloating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever in cases of infections
- Dry mouth, dark urine and fatigue in cases of severe dehydration
When should you consult a doctor?
Diarrhea or loose motions can lead to potential medical emergencies like hypovolemic shock and other complications. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention if you experience:
- Signs of severe dehydration such as dry mouth, extreme fatigue, rapid heartbeat, dizziness and confusion.
- Blood in stool or black tarry stool.
- A high-grade fever as a result of sepsis.
- Persistent diarrhoea lasting for more than 2-3 days.
How can you prevent Diarrhea?
- Avoid consumption of raw or undercooked food.
- Ensure safe drinking water by using filtered or boiled water.
- Practice good hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and water before eating or cooking.
- Get vaccinated against rotavirus.
Tips for managing diarrhea at home
Diarrhea can be managed effectively by following ways in adjuvant to the medicines:
- Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of oral fluids, ORS to prevent dehydration.
- Avoid consumption of spicy, fried or diary rich food.
- Follow the BRAT diet that includes banana, rice, applesauce and toast to soothe the stomach.
- Consuming probiotics in the form of yogurt or supplements is essential to restore the gut balance.
- Have adequate rest to allow the body to recover.
Homeopathy to the rescue!!
Homeopathic medicines offer a gentle and holistic approach for the treatment of diarrhea or loose motions by targeting the specific nature of symptoms, ensuring long term relief and prevention of recurrence.
- Arsenicum Album – Indicated in diarrhea caused by contaminated food or water which is accompanied by burning pain in abdomen and extreme weakness. Suitable for restless and anxious individuals with a need to sip small quantities of water frequently.
- Aloe Socotrina – Aids in relieving watery, foul-smelling stools with urgency which alternates with normal stools and gets aggravated after eating.
- Podophyllum Peltatum – For profuse, painless diarrhea specially in children during teething.
- Chamomilla – Helps in relieving diarrhoea in inconsolable infants or toddlers during teething. The stools are offensive and greenish in colour just like chopped spinach.
- Cinchona officinalis – Useful in managing extreme weakness and palpitations associated with dehydration due to food poisoning which gets worse at night.
- Phosphorus – A great remedy for managing diarrhoea caused by emotional stress, fear or anxiety with a craving for cold drinks.
- Veratrum Album – Useful in relieving severe diarrhea with vomiting, profuse sweating and cold extremities with marked weakness and dehydration.
- OMEO Dysentry Drops – It is a speciality product of BJain that is useful in relieving painful loose stools. The specified dosage of this homeopathic medicine is 8-10 drops in 1/4th cup of water, 3 times a day or as prescribed by the physician.
Hence, homeopathic medicines provide a supportive care in patients ailing with diarrhea or loose motions, thereby helping them to recover quickly and restore their digestive balance naturally.
Dr Anusha Dewan
BHMS, MPH, MBA Healthcare Management, a RESEARCH OFFICER at BJain Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd holds degree from Nehru Homoeopathic Medical College, Delhi University and Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research. As a dedicated and result oriented public health consultant, she leverages to create innovative healthcare solutions for improved patient outcomes.