Stopping Diarrhea in a Hurry

Diarrhea is the kind of health issue that can pop up at the most inopportune times, potentially disrupting your day with the sudden need to rush to the bathroom. While not usually a serious problem, diarrhea can nevertheless be a burden for those who have chronic or recurrent bouts. Fortunately, there are a variety of methods for treating diarrhea, from over-the-counter medications to home remedies and lifestyle adjustments. The key is identifying which approaches work quickly and effectively to alleviate symptoms and restore normal bowel function.

Understanding Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a gastrointestinal condition that can be a problem on its own or an indicator of some larger issue. It is generally characterized by having loose, watery stools that occur more frequently than usual. Traditionally, diarrhea has been defined as three or more loose stools in a day, but it can vary widely from person to person. While most cases of acute diarrhea resolve on their own within a few days, chronic diarrhea lasting more than a few weeks may indicate a more serious underlying condition and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.¹

Common Causes of Diarrhea

Diarrhea can result from various factors, ranging from minor digestive issues to more serious health conditions. Identifying the source of the problem can help determine the most appropriate treatment approach. Here are some of the most frequent causes of diarrhea:

• Viral infections: Viruses like rotavirus and norovirus are common culprits, especially in children.
• Bacterial infections: Often caused by consuming contaminated food or water, with common bacteria including E. coli and Salmonella.
• Parasitic infections: Less common but can cause persistent diarrhea if left untreated. Examples include Giardia and Cryptosporidium.
• Food intolerances: Conditions like lactose intolerance can trigger diarrhea when certain foods are consumed.
• Medications: Particularly antibiotics, which can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria.
• Chronic conditions: Irritable bowel syndrome(IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, can lead to recurring bouts of diarrhea.
• Traveler’s diarrhea: A common issue for those visiting areas with different sanitation standards or unfamiliar cuisine.
• Stress: Psychological stress can affect digestive function and potentially trigger diarrhea in some individuals.
• Artificial sweeteners: Some sugar substitutes, like sorbitol, can have a laxative effect when consumed in large quantities.
• Surgery: Certain abdominal or gallbladder surgeries can sometimes lead to diarrhea as a side effect.²

How To Stop Diarrhea Quickly

The approaches to treating diarrhea generally fall into two categories: manage the symptoms and/or address an underlying condition. Identifying the cause, when possible, can help determine the most effective treatment strategy. Treatment often involves taking actions that will prevent dehydration and support the body’s natural healing process. There are several effective ways to stop diarrhea fast, depending on the severity and duration of symptoms. Below are some of the most reliable methods, ranging from over-the-counter medications to dietary adjustments and natural remedies:

• Over-the-counter medications: Anti-diarrheal drugs such as loperamide (Imodium) function by slowing the movement of fluids through the intestines, effectively reducing the frequency of bowel movements. Another option, bismuth subsalicylate (found in products like Pepto-Bismol and Kaopectate), helps reduce intestinal inflammation and offers antibacterial properties. These OTC medications are known for providing quick relief in cases of diarrhea.
• Probiotics: Beneficial bacteria play a crucial role in restoring balance to the digestive system, proving particularly effective against antibiotic-associated diarrhea or viral gastroenteritis. These helpful microorganisms can be found in various sources, including yogurt with live cultures, specific probiotic supplements, and fermented foods such as kefir or sauerkraut. Certain strains, like Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Saccharomyces boulardii, have shown considerable promise in managing diarrheal symptoms.
• Diet modification: Traditionally, the BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) was the main recommendation for diarrhea due to these bland foods being easy to digest and helping firm up stools. However, this approach has fallen out of favor due to its limited nutritional value. Current recommendations focus on a broader, more balanced diet including fruits, vegetables, lean meats, yogurt, and complex carbohydrates. Foods like boiled potatoes, plain pasta, cooked carrots, and baked chicken are often well-tolerated. Eat small, frequent meals of easily digestible foods while avoiding fatty, spicy, sugary, or fried food items that might aggravate the digestive system.
• Hydration and electrolyte balance: Diarrhea leads to the loss of both fluids and crucial electrolytes. While plain water is beneficial, it’s often insufficient on its own. Clear broths and specially formulated oral rehydration solutions like Pedialyte are designed to replenish both fluids and electrolytes efficiently. Sports drinks can be helpful but should be consumed in moderation due to their high sugar content. It’s also important to avoid beverages that can exacerbate diarrhea, such as caffeinated drinks, alcohol, and fruit juices. The most effective approach is to sip fluids consistently throughout the day, rather than consuming large amounts at once, to maintain steady hydration.
• Natural remedies: While scientific evidence is limited and more research is needed, some individuals report relief from diarrheal symptoms using various natural remedies. Chamomile tea, known for its potential anti-inflammatory properties, is sometimes used to soothe the digestive tract. Peppermint tea may help by potentially reducing intestinal spasms, while ginger, consumed as a tea or in capsule form, is thought to alleviate associated nausea. Psyllium husk, a soluble fiber, might assist in firming up stools when taken with adequate water. However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of these remedies can vary significantly among individuals, and they should not replace proven medical treatments or professional medical advice.

Tips for Preventing Diarrhea

While complete prevention of diarrhea isn’t always feasible, several practices can significantly reduce the risk of occurrence. Maintaining proper hygiene, particularly thorough handwashing, plays a crucial role in preventing the spread of infections that often lead to diarrheal episodes. For travelers, exercising caution with food and water consumption, especially in areas with unfamiliar sanitation standards, can help avoid traveler’s diarrhea.

People with known food sensitivities or intolerances should be vigilant about avoiding their specific dietary triggers. Additionally, stress management proves to be an important factor in maintaining digestive health, as prolonged stress can potentially disrupt normal gut function. Incorporating regular exercise, ensuring adequate sleep, and employing stress-reduction techniques such as meditation can contribute to overall digestive well-being.

For those prone to recurrent diarrhea, maintaining a detailed food diary can be an invaluable tool. This practice aids in identifying potential dietary triggers and informs more effective long-term dietary choices, potentially reducing the frequency of diarrheal episodes.³

Contact a Gastroenterologist

While diarrhea is a common ailment, it doesn’t have to be a frequent disruption in your life. With proper management and preventive measures, its occurrence can be significantly reduced. The health of our gastrointestinal system is closely tied to our dietary and lifestyle choices, making proactive care essential for maintaining overall digestive wellness. If you’ve been experiencing frequent or severe bouts of diarrhea, or if your symptoms persist despite trying the remedies discussed above, it may be time to consult with a gastroenterology specialist. The board-certified physicians at Cary Gastro are equipped with the expertise to diagnose and treat a wide range of digestive disorders. Don't let persistent digestive issues impact your quality of life—contact Cary Gastro today to schedule an appointment.

¹https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/diarrhea/definition-facts
²https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/diarrhea
³https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/diarrhoeal-disease