Diarrhea and Loose Stools – Causes, Treatment, and Effective Products
13.01.2025
Diarrhea and loose stools are common issues that most people experience occasionally. While it often resolves on its own, it can be uncomfortable and disrupt daily life. At www.apotekfordeg.no, you will find effective products that quickly and safely relieve symptoms.
In this article, you will learn what diarrhea and loose stools are, what causes them, and how to treat these symptoms – whether it concerns adults, pregnant women, or children.
What are Diarrhea and Loose Stools?
Diarrhea occurs when stool is frequent, loose, or watery. It happens because the digestive system fails to absorb fluids and nutrients effectively. Loose stools are a milder form of diarrhea but can still be uncomfortable and inconvenient.
The condition can range from short-term (acute diarrhea) to long-lasting (chronic diarrhea), which may persist for several weeks.
Symptoms of Diarrhea and Loose Stools
The most common symptoms of loose stools and diarrhea include:
- Frequent trips to the bathroom with loose or watery stool
- Stomach cramps and pain
- Bloating
- Nausea and an unsettled stomach
- A "rumbling" sensation in the stomach
- Dehydration during severe diarrhea (thirst, dizziness, and fatigue)
If loose stools persist or symptoms are severe, you should contact a doctor.
What Causes Diarrhea and Loose Stools?
There are many causes of diarrhea and loose stools. Here are the most common:
- Viral Infections: Stomach viruses, such as norovirus and rotavirus, are a frequent cause of acute diarrhea and spread quickly, particularly during outbreaks.
- Bacterial Infections: Bacteria like salmonella, campylobacter, or E. coli can cause food poisoning, leading to severe diarrhea. This often occurs after consuming contaminated food or water.
- Food Intolerances and Allergies: Lactose intolerance and gluten allergies can trigger symptoms like loose stools and diarrhea after consuming dairy or gluten products.
- Antibiotics and Medications: Taking antibiotics can disrupt the natural gut flora, resulting in diarrhea. Certain medications may also list loose stools as a side effect.
- Stress and Anxiety: Psychological stress impacts bowel function and may lead to an unsettled stomach and loose stools.
- Chronic Illnesses: Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease, and celiac disease can cause long-term diarrhea.
How to Treat Diarrhea and Loose Stools?
Treatment for loose stools and diarrhea depends on the cause. Here are some general tips:
1. Fluid Intake
Diarrhea leads to fluid loss, so it’s essential to drink plenty of water. Restore electrolytes using special rehydration solutions like Resorb to maintain fluid balance.
2. Easily Digestible Foods
Eat foods that are gentle on the stomach, such as bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet. This diet is low in fiber).
3. Probiotics
Probiotic supplements can help restore the natural gut flora and shorten the duration of diarrhea.
4. Over-the-Counter Products
At www.apotekfordeg.no, you will find effective products that help manage diarrhea and loose stools.
Effective products include:
- Imodium: Reduces bowel activity and quickly relieves acute diarrhea.
- Probiotics like Idoform: Restore the natural balance of gut bacteria.
- Resorb Electrolyte Solution: Prevents dehydration caused by fluid loss.
Diarrhea and Loose Stools During Pregnancy
Pregnant women often experience changes in digestion, including loose stools and occasional diarrhea. This can be due to hormonal shifts, dietary changes, or increased stress.
Causes of Loose Stools During Pregnancy
- Hormonal changes affecting bowel function
- Taking supplements like iron or magnesium
- Increased sensitivity to certain foods
Treatment for Diarrhea During Pregnancy
- Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration
- Eat easily digestible foods like bananas, rice, and toast
- Avoid foods that irritate the stomach, such as fatty or spicy dishes
At www.apotekfordeg.no, you can find gentle and safe products specifically designed to relieve loose stools and diarrhea during pregnancy.
What Helps with Diarrhea and Loose Stools During Pregnancy?
For pregnant women, natural and gentle solutions are recommended:
- Resorb Electrolyte Solution to prevent dehydration
- Probiotic supplements to support gut flora
Avoid taking medications without consulting a doctor first.
Pregnant women can use these products for relieving diarrhea and loose stools during pregnancy:
Diarrhea and Loose Stools in Children
Children are particularly prone to diarrhea and loose stools, often caused by viral infections like rotavirus or bacterial infections. Young children can become dehydrated quickly, so monitoring fluid intake is essential.
Symptoms in Children Include
- Frequent diaper changes or bathroom visits
- Restless stomach and crying
- Fever and vomiting may accompany diarrhea
Treatment for Diarrhea in Children
- Rehydrate with oral rehydration solutions to prevent dehydration.
- Easy-to-digest foods, such as mashed potatoes, rice, and bananas, can help soothe the stomach.
- Avoid sugary drinks, which may worsen symptoms.
At www.apotekfordeg.no, you can find safe and effective products like electrolyte solutions and probiotics to help your child recover quickly. You should contact a doctor to get the right treatment and medication that can help with loose stomach and diarrhea for your child.
Acute diarrhea in infants and children requires medical attention if the child shows signs of dehydration or has a high fever.
What Helps with Diarrhea and Loose Stools in Children?
Children experiencing diarrhea need quick relief:
- Electrolyte solutions specially designed for children
- Probiotic products to support digestive health
- Avoid foods that irritate the digestive tract, such as juice or sugary snacks.
Products that can be used by children for relieving loose stools and diarrhea:
For infants and older:
This is how GEM should be dosed for children with diarrhea or other conditions leading to mild to moderate fluid and electrolyte loss. Treatment should be continued until the diarrhea resolves, typically for 2-4 days:
The first 6 hours of treatment:
- Under 5 kg: 2.5-4 dl
- 5-10 kg: 4-8 dl
- 10-15 kg: 8-12 dl
- Over 15 kg: 12-16 dl
Maintenance dose per day:
- Under 5 kg: 4-7 dl
- 5-10 kg: 6-13 dl
- 10-15 kg: 10-20 dl
- Over 15 kg: 18-25 dl
For children from 3 years and older:
Preventing Diarrhea and Loose Stools
To avoid diarrhea and loose stools, follow these tips:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before meals and after using the bathroom
- Practice good hygiene when preparing food
- Drink clean water, especially when traveling abroad
- Avoid foods that you know upset your stomach
Summary
Diarrhea and loose stools are common but often harmless conditions that can be effectively treated. By maintaining proper hydration, eating easily digestible foods, and using effective products from www.apotekfordeg.no, you can quickly relieve symptoms.
At our online pharmacy, you will find safe solutions for the whole family – whether it concerns adults, pregnant women, or children. Order here.
References: Norsk Helseinformatikk, Helse Norge, Helsebiblioteket
Published January 2025.
