128
FAMILY ILLNESS
Diarrhea( adults)
For children under 12 years, see p. 130 Diarrhea is the frequent passing of abnormally loose or watery feces, and is usually a result of infection. However, persistent diarrhea may be caused by a serious gastrointestinal disorder. You should consult your doctor if diarrhea continues for more than 2 days or if it recurs.
START
Have you noticed blood in your feces?
Blood
Have you had several bouts of diarrhea over the past few weeks?
!
Dehydration
A person with bad diarrhea can become dehydrated if fluids are not replaced quickly enough. The symptoms of dehydration include confusion or drowsiness, a dry mouth, loss of elasticity in the skin, and failure to urinate for several hours. Elderly people are particularly at risk. Follow the advice for preventing dehydration on p. 165, but seek urgent medical help if a person has severe symptoms.
No blood
ACTION
SEE YOUR DOCTOR WITHIN 24 HOURS You may have an intestinal infection, such as amebiasis, or ulcerative colitis( ulceration of the rectum and colon). However, the slight possibility of cancer of the colon or rectum needs to be excluded.
Have you recently consumed food or water that may have been contaminated?
Possible
Yes
No
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT
TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR You probably have irritable bowel syndrome, especially if you have suffered abdominal pain and excessive gas. However, the slight possibility of cancer of the colon or rectum needs to be excluded.
• Avoid large meals, spicy, fried, and fatty foods, and milk products.
• Cut down on coffee, tea, soda, and beer.
Has the diarrhea been alternating with bouts of constipation?
Constipation and diarrhea
Diarrhea alone
ACTION
TRY SELF-HELP MEASURES You may have food poisoning.
• Follow the advice for preventing dehydration( p. 165).
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR if you are no better in 2 days or if any other symptoms develop.
Unlikely