5 Things You Need to Know About Chronic Diarrhea

1. Running With the Runs

Everyone experiences diarrhea at least four times a year. These are usually one-day affairs with a direct relation to food eaten or a virus. Chronic diarrhea is when you have recurring bouts of diarrhea that last 7 to 10 days four times a year. Chronic diarrhea leaves you exhausted, dehydrated and in general poor health. It is important to address this issue as soon as possible. Although it may not be possible to completely eliminate it, there are many ways to improve daily management.

2. Not a Virus, Then What?

There are several chronic conditions and diseases where one of the symptoms is chronic diarrhea. Irritable Bowel Syndrome is one of the most common, affecting 2 million Americans each year. Food allergies, poor food hygiene and water issues can all cause it, as can certain medication and vitamins. It is important to see your doctor as soon as you can. There are several tests that can determine if you are suffering from an intestinal disease, cancer or other illness. Once you have identified the cause, you can start treating it.

3. Home Remedies

Probiotics are products that contain active, live, friendly bacteria called Lactobacillus acidophilus. This bacteria lives in your lower gut and aids in digestion. People with chronic diarrhea often have lower levels of friendly bacteria. To replace these probiotics, doctors recommend eating yogurt, which contains a certain amount of live bacteria. Health food stores sell probiotic pills and capsules as well. While many products claim to contain probiotics, look for a product that has been clinically proven to have health benefits, such as Bio K+.

4. Keeping up Your Strength

Select all your food and drinks with care while struggling with chronic diarrhea. The easiest way to manage this condition is to follow basic food safety rules. Only eat cooked food made at home. Use only fresh ingredients and throw out any left over food in the fridge after 2 days. Use a food thermometer to ensure all meat and chicken is fully cooked.

5. Food Safety First!

Select all your food and drinks with care while struggling with chronic diarrhea. The easiest way to manage this condition is to follow basic food safety rules. Only eat cooked food made at home. Use only fresh ingredients and throw out any leftover food in the fridge after 2 days. Use a food thermometer to ensure all meat and chicken is fully cooked.

Last updated on: Apr 26, 2011

Must see: Photo Galleries