Diarrhea is a frequent loose or watery stool accompanied by cramping, bloating and uncomfortableness. Even though diarrhea isn’t serious and will usually clear itself up on its own, it can be uncomfortable and disruptive. However, if you know how to manage it and how to speed up recovery, you can find relief quickly. Here are some effective tips for fast relief from diarrhea:
1. Stay Hydrated
If diarrhea lasts long enough or is severe enough, it can lead to dehydration. It is important to replenish lost fluids otherwise various body conditions may develop. Clear broth and ORS can maintain your fluid balance in order to help high fevers. Instead, it’s best to avoid sugary drinks and caffeinated drinks that can irritate your stomach and make diarrhea worse. Visit a gastroenterologist in Islamabad if symptoms cannot be controlled.
2. Follow the BRAT Diet
Heaven knows the BRAT diet, the bowel soothes all’… Bananas, Rice, Applesauce and Toast (BRAT) are bland, easy to digest foods that will firm up stools and decrease further irritation. Boiled potatoes and crackers will help just as much as this. Do not eat food that is spicy, fatty or full of roughage which can make your diarrhea worse.
3. Probiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria that are good for your digestive system, and they help keep your gut healthy by restoring the balance of bacteria that can be lost during antibiotic use or after having a stomach bug, for example. Yogurt with live cultures, kefir or probiotic supplements may decrease diarrhea, and lead to quicker recovery. These are helpful bacteria and your digestive system works better with more of these and may reduce inflammation in the gut.
4. Certain Foods and Drinks to Avoid
When your tummy is angry, it’s most advisable to keep off foods that will make diarrhea worse. Avoid greasy foods, fried foods, dairy products (if you’re lactose intolerant), and high fiber vegetables (like broccoli and cabbage). Caffeine and spicy foods can also cause some irritation. Keeping to bland, low fiber foods will help soothe your stomach.
5. Over-the-Counter Medications
Quick relief can be found with anti diarrhea medications like loperamide (Imodium), and bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto Bismol) which slow down the bowels. These should only be taken for short periods and aren’t advisable if you think an infection is the reason for your diarrhea. Be sure to always have a healthcare professional check your symptoms because they can help you decide whether it is appropriate to take medication.
6. Herbal Teas
Some herbal teas can calm and help to reduce inflammation in the intestines. And chamomile tea is known for two things: anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic, which means it helps ease cramping and diarrhea, for example. The tea may also be able to relieve digestive discomfort and bloating, too. It’s great to sip on warm herbal teas in the course of the day for soothing relaxation and recovery.
7. Rest and Take It Easy
When dealing with diarrhea, it’s important to allow your body to rest. Resting is an energy saver; it allows your body to take a little break to heal and rebalance your digestive system. Symptoms will be exacerbated by stress and fatigue, therefore resting will speed recovery.
8. Gradually Reintroduce Fiber
High-fiber foods can only make your diarrhea worse, but foods rich in soluble fiber (foods like oats, bananas, and apples) can absorb the excess water in the intestines and actually help produce more solid stools. Once your symptoms start getting better, slowly start eating small amounts of soluble fiber to help control your digestion.
9. Maintain Good Hygiene
If your diarrhea is viral or bacterial, good hygiene will help prevent further spreading of the illness. After using the bathroom, or before eating, wash your hands very well with soap and water. Also, don’t prepare foods for others until your symptoms are gone.
10. Stay Clear of Dairy
If you are lactose intolerant or don’t do dairy well, avoid milk, cheese, and other dairy items during diarrhea, as they’re likely to intensify symptoms. Due to the fact many people have a difficult time digesting lactose anyway, let alone with a bit of digestive upset, switching to a homemade lactose free alternative can be extremely helpful.
11. Replenish Electrolytes
It’s also important to replace lost electrolytes (such as sodium, potassium) if you have diarrhea. Electrolytes are very important to keep fluid in the proper balance in the body. If you do drink oral rehydration solutions or coconut water, broths or sports drinks in moderation that can help restore the electrolytes.
12. Activated Charcoal
Sometimes activated charcoal is used to draw out toxins and gas in the digestive tract. There’s some evidence that it can ease diarrhea caused by food poisoning or bacteria (but not always). Consult the doctor, before using activated charcoal, because it can interfere with the absorption of medications.
Conclusion
Although diarrhea is unpleasant, effective treatments are often available for the condition, and involve nothing more than simple remedies and dietary changes. Staying hydrated, following a BRAT diet, and avoiding what may exacerbate the problem can bring quick relief. However, if symptoms worsen or persist, you should check with a gastroenterologist in Rawalpindi who may rule out comorbid conditions. With these tips, you can recover from diarrhea sooner in comfort, and without the risk of complications.
