Diarrhoea, commonly called “loose motion”, is a condition characterised by frequent, watery stools, often leading to dehydration and weakness. It can affect anyone and its severity may range from a temporary inconvenience to a life-threatening condition, especially in vulnerable groups such as children, older adults, or those with weakened immune systems. While most cases of diarrhoea resolve on their own within a few days, persistent or severe episodes can lead to dehydration and other complications, making timely medical attention crucial. At Artemis Hospitals, we offer specialised diarrhoea treatment tailored to each patient’s needs, helping patients recover swiftly and effectively while preventing complications.
Signs of Diarrhoea: When Should You Be Concerned?
Recognizing the signs of diarrhoea is crucial for early intervention. Some of the common diarrhoea symptoms include:
Frequent, watery stools
Abdominal pain or cramping
Loose motion with stomach pain
Nausea and vomiting associated with loose motion
Signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth and dizziness
Sudden watery diarrhoea or blood in stools
Common Causes of Diarrhoea
Knowing the possible causes of diarrhoea can help prevent diarrhoea/loose motion. Here are some common causes of diarrhoea:
Infections: Viral infections (such as rotavirus and norovirus), bacterial infections (such as E. coli and Salmonella), and parasitic infections are common reasons for loose motion.
Food intolerances: Consuming foods that the body cannot digest properly, such as lactose, can trigger loose motion and stomach pain.
Medications: Certain antibiotics may disrupt gut bacteria, causing diarrhoea symptoms such as watery stools and cramps.
Digestive disorders: Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS diarrhoea), inflammatory bowel disease, or celiac disease can result in chronic diarrhoea.
Poor hygiene: Consuming contaminated food or water is a frequent loose motion reason, especially in areas with poor sanitation.
Emotional stress: Stress and anxiety can impact digestion, leading to loose motion and vomiting.
Types of Diarrhoea
Understanding the types of diarrhoea is essential so that appropriate actions can be taken before the condition worsens. Here's an overview of the most common types:
Acute diarrhoea: Short-term and often caused by infections or food poisoning.
Chronic diarrhoea: Lasting more than four weeks and often related to conditions such as IBS or Crohn’s disease.
Traveler's diarrhoea: Caused by consuming contaminated food or water while travelling.
Watery diarrhoea: Common in viral infections and can lead to dehydration.
Bloody diarrhoea: Requires immediate medical attention as it may indicate a severe bacterial infection or inflammatory bowel disease.
When to Consult a Doctor?
Not all cases of diarrhoea require a hospital visit, but certain situations do. Seek medical attention if:
Loose motion persists for more than 48 hours
You experience severe loose motion and stomach pain
There is blood in stools or watery diarrhoea with vomiting
You have diarrhoea during pregnancy, which can be risky if left untreated
Infants or young children show signs of dehydration along with loose motion
Diarrhoea Treatment at Artemis Hospitals
At Artemis Hospitals, we provide a wide range of loose motion treatments to address various causes and symptoms. Our comprehensive approach ensures rapid and long-term relief.
Diagnostic Process
To provide the best treatment for loose motion, we follow a thorough diagnostic process:
Medical history review: Our specialists will assess your symptoms, diet, and travel history to identify potential diarrhoea causes.
Physical examination: Checking for signs of dehydration, abdominal pain, and other related conditions.
Diarrhoea tests: Blood tests, stool analysis, and urine tests to detect infections or digestive issues.
Endoscopy or colonoscopy: For patients with chronic diarrhoea, these tests help detect underlying conditions.
Treatment Options
Our diarrhoea treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and addressing diverse underlying causes:
Rehydration therapy: Oral rehydration solutions or IV fluids to restore lost electrolytes and prevent dehydration.
Medications: Antibiotics for bacterial infections, antiparasitic medications for parasitic causes, or antidiarrheal drugs to control symptoms.
Probiotics: To restore the balance of good bacteria in the gut.
Dietary advice: Our experts recommend dietary changes to alleviate loose motion and stomach pain, such as consuming bland foods such as bananas and rice.
Home remedies: Guidance on loose motion stomach pain home remedies such as ginger tea, probiotics, and staying hydrated.
Why Choose Artemis Hospitals for Diarrhoea Treatment?
Artemis Hospitals is a leader in providing top-notch healthcare for gastrointestinal conditions, including diarrhoea treatment. Here’s why patients trust us:
Expert team: Our gastroenterologists are highly skilled in diagnosing and treating various types of diarrhoea.
Cutting-edge technology: We use the latest diagnostic tools to pinpoint the cause of your symptoms.
Personalised care: We offer customised treatment plans, from managing sudden watery diarrhoea to addressing chronic diarrhoea conditions.
Holistic approach: From immediate relief to long-term solutions, we ensure comprehensive care for our patients.
Book an Appointment with a Specialist Today
If you are experiencing persistent loose motion, watery diarrhoea, or chronic diarrhoea, don't delay seeking help. To book an appointment with our specialists at Artemis Hospitals at Artemis Hospitals, call our customer care at +91-124-4511111 or WhatsApp us at +91 9599285476. You can also schedule an appointment through our online patient portal or download and register on the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I prevent diarrhoea?
Good hygiene practices, drinking clean water, and avoiding undercooked foods can help in diarrhoea prevention.
What are the early signs of diarrhoea?
Early signs of diarrhoea include frequent loose stools, bloating, and abdominal pain.
How to stop diarrhoea fast in adults?
Staying hydrated, eating a bland diet (such as bananas, rice, and toast), and taking over-the-counter medications can help stop diarrhoea fast. However, consult a doctor if symptoms persist.
Can stress lead to diarrhoea?
Yes, stress and anxiety can trigger IBS diarrhoea, leading to loose stools.
Is diarrhoea dangerous during pregnancy?
Yes, loose motion during pregnancy can lead to dehydration, which can be harmful. It’s crucial to consult a doctor.
What causes diarrhoea in infants?
Infant loose motion is often caused by infections, teething, or changes in diet. Keep infants hydrated and consult a paediatrician if symptoms worsen.
What tests are used to diagnose diarrhoea?
Common diarrhoea tests include stool analysis, blood tests, and imaging studies to identify the cause.
What are the complications of untreated diarrhoea?
Severe diarrhoea can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and, in chronic cases, malnutrition.
