If you suddenly lose your appetite and develop diarrhea, you may be experiencing the stomach flu or food poisoning. The stomach flu is a common viral infection of the intestines, while food poisoning is the result of eating or drinking a food or beverage that is contaminated. Loss of appetite and diarrhea can be signs of many conditions and needs to be evaluated by your doctor. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, a serious medical condition that needs to be treated.
Stomach Flu
The stomach flu, or viral gastroenteritis, occurs when you contact a virus that develops in the digestive tract. The stomach flu is not related to the influenza virus, but can be caused by various viruses. The stomach flu is caught through human to human contact or from drinking water that is contaminated. Symptoms typically come on suddenly and last for one to three days, but may persist for up to 10 days, according to MayoClinic.com. The viral infection is highly contagious and can lead to bouts of vomiting and a low-grade fever. There is no cure for the stomach flu. Rest and a modified diet are the most effective way to treat the condition.
Food Poisoning
Food poisoning is primarily the result of eating or drinking meat that has come into contact with bacteria, water that is contaminated or through improper food handlilng, according to MedlinePlus. Food poisoning symptoms will develop within a few hours or up to one day after consuming a product that's contaminated. If you have food poisoning you will loose your appetite and develop diarrhea. You may also become weak, develop a fever and a headache.
Diet Modification
These conditions are both treated by modifying your diet. If you are vomiting excessively stop eating and drinking for a few hours to allow your stomach some time to settle. Once vomiting has subsided, you can begin drinking clear liquids. The Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse states that you should eat bland foods that are easy on the stomach, such as bananas, rice, potatoes, cooked carrots, apples and toast. Drinking is more important than eating food to prevent dehydration.
Warning
Any time you develop diarrhea, call your doctor. Diarrhea can cause dehydration. Dehydration occurs when you body looses large amounts of water. Symptoms of dehydration include lightheadedness, dry skin, fatigue, dry mouth and pale-looking skin. This complication can cause brain damage or even death if not treated properly.
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