Foods To Eat When You Have Diarrhea
When you have diarrhea, the foods that you eat and the foods that you avoid can be critical to helping you recover quicker. This is where BRAT foods come in.
BRAT stands for bananas, rice, apples, toast. These foods are bland, so they wont aggravate the digestive system. Theyre also binding, so they help firm up stool.
Other foods that are included in the BRAT diet include:
- cooked cereal, like Cream of Wheat or farina
Diagnosing Abdominal Pain And Diarrhea
To determine the cause of abdominal pain and diarrhea, a doctor will first perform a physical exam. Theyll also ask some questions about your health history and lifestyle.
Traveling to certain countries may increase your risk of digestive disease. Be sure to mention any recent trips overseas. The doctor will also ask questions about any recent changes in your diet.
A doctor may perform a stool culture, in which theyll send a sample of your feces to a lab to check for bacteria, viruses, and parasites. If this comes up negative, they may run a more complete analysis of your feces to look for possible digestive disorders.
Other common diagnostic tests include:
- Endoscopy. In an endoscopy, a doctor sends a camera down your throat and into your stomach to check for problems, such as ulcers and signs of celiac disease.
- Colonoscopy. A colonoscopy involves sending a camera into the rectum and intestines to check for signs of damage and signs of disease, such as ulcers and polyps.
- Lower GI tract radiography. In a lower GI tract radiography, also known as a barium enema, a technician will perform a real-time X-ray of the abdomen. This occurs after the doctor injects a barium-based contrast material into the rectum that can highlight intestinal obstructions and other conditions.
Medication can help treat the underlying condition causing your abdominal pain and diarrhea. If your symptoms are caused by stress or need to be managed, home remedies can help.
When Should You Seek Medical Care For Diarrhea
Diarrhea can usually be treated with home care. In some cases, it may become more severe. A person should go to a hospital emergency department in the following situations:
- If the person has the condition along with high fever, moderate-to-severe abdominal pain, or dehydration that cannot be managed by drinking fluids
- If diarrhea appears to contain blood
- If the person is sleepy and is not acting like their usual selves
- Vomiting and inability to tolerate any food or to keep liquids down
- Signs of dehydration
- High fever, significant abdominal pain, frequent loose bowel movements, or bloody diarrhea
- If he or she is elderly or has serious underlying medical problems, particularly diabetes, heart, kidney, or liver disease, or HIV/AIDS
- A parent or caregiver needs advice about preventing dehydration in newborns and infants
- Symptoms do not improve in two to three days or appear to become worse
- If he or she develops diarrhea after travel within their home country or foreign travel or if a woman is pregnant
For cases of chronic diarrhea, your primary care provider may consult with a gastroenterologist .
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Using Alcoholic Bitters To Relieve Stomach Pain
You may raise an eyebrow, but did you know that alcoholic bitters can naturally relieve stomach pain?
Many common brands of bitters contain a mix of mint, ginger, cinnamon, and fennel, all of which are known to help ease stomach pain in one form or another. Five to six drops in a glass of club soda or ginger ale might surprise you.
What Are The Symptoms Of Indigestion
Each persons symptoms may vary. Symptoms may include:
- Feeling full too soon while eating
- Feeling pain, burning, and discomfort in your upper belly or abdomen
- Feeling bloated
- Burping and loud stomach gurgling
- Having an upset stomach or vomiting
- Having diarrhea
The symptoms of indigestion may look like other health problems. Always see your healthcare provider to be sure.
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Sharp Pain In Stomach
Indigestion, the stomach influenza, and gastrointestinal disorder are common causes of acute diarrhea and abdominal pain. In these cases, symptoms last for less than four days and typically solve without medical treatment.
Infections or diseases that impact the organs in your abdominal area can also cause pain with diarrhea. Organs in the abdomen include your intestines, kidneys, appendix, spleen, stomach, gallbladder, liver, pancreas.
Diarrhea and abdominal pain that last for more than a week or that often reoccur might suggest an intestinal disease or disorder. You should speak to your doctor if youve experienced these symptoms for more than a week or on a repeating basis.
The above conditions and conditions can cause swelling of different parts of the gastrointestinal tract, such as the stomach and intestinal tracts. Inflammation of the digestive system can cause cramps and disrupt normal digestive procedures. This typically results in abdominal pain and diarrhea.
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A Food Allergy Or Intolerance
Food allergies and intolerances are the most common reason behind stomach pain after eating. Symptoms such as gas, bloating, unusual burps, cramping, and diarrhea indicate that you have eaten something that has not digested well in your stomach.
Allergies occur when the body mistakes some food for a harmful foreign invader, and your immune system releases antibodies to fight it. This immune response can cause an array of symptoms. Common allergens include:
Food intolerance occurs when the digestive system gets irritated by a particular food or cannot digest it properly. Unlike an allergy, there is no immune system response involved in food intolerance which results when your stomach cannot process specific foods or ingredients.Foods that are known to cause intolerance include:
- Lactose sensitivity to milk or dairy products
- Gluten a protein that is present in grains such as wheat, barley, and others
- FODMAPs sensitivity to foods that contain different types of fermentable carbohydrates
If these intolerances are not significant, these conditions can go undiagnosed for years. If you notice signs of stomach pain every time you consume a specific food item, it may be coming from an allergy or intolerance and must be tested by a doctor.
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Urgent Advice: Get Advice From 111 Now If:
- youre worried about a baby under 12 months
- your child stops breast or bottle feeding while theyre ill
- a child under 5 years has signs of dehydration such as fewer wet nappies
- you or your child still have signs of dehydration after using oral rehydration sachets
- you or your child keep being sick and cannot keep fluid down
- you or your child have bloody diarrhoea or bleeding from the bottom
- you or your child have diarrhoea for more than 7 days or vomiting for more than 2 days
111 will tell you what to do. They can arrange a phone call from a nurse or doctor if you need one.
Go to 111.nhs.uk or .
Get an urgent GP appointment
A GP may be able to help you.
Ask your GP practice for an urgent appointment.
Check with the GP surgery before going in. A GP may speak to you on the phone.
How Is Abdominal Pain Treated
The treatment of abdominal pain will depend on its underlying cause.
Mild abdominal pain may go away on its own within hours or days. Mild pain and related symptoms can also often be treated with medicines from the pharmacy. Your pharmacist will be able to advise you on what type of product is best suited to your situation.
You should not use aspirin or anti-inflammatory medicines, such as ibuprofen, to treat abdominal pain, other than period pain. These medicines may cause or irritate a stomach or bowel problem.
If you are treating mild abdominal pain with a known cause at home:
- use a hot water bottle or warm wheat pack on your abdomen
- eat bland foods when you can start eating again, or as advised by your doctor
Specific treatments, depending on the cause of your abdominal pain, include the following:
Gas Medicines designed to break down gas bubbles, such as antacids containing simethicone, are available over the counter. Gas-reducing medicines such as charcoal products, may help with ongoing wind problems. Dietary changes may also help. An Accredited Practising Dietitian or your doctor can help with dietary advice.
Gastroenteritis This usually only lasts a few days and clears up by itself. Rehydrating by drinking plenty of clear fluids is the most important treatment.
Pain due to muscle spasms Spasms in the wall of the bowel may be eased by antispasmodic medicines. Several are available, so talk to your pharmacist or doctor about which are right for you.
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Can Indigestion Be Prevented Or Avoided
There are ways to prevent indigestion. To start, you need to know your body and how it reacts to different food and drinks. Spicy and acidic foods and carbonated drinks can trigger indigestion. Try to avoid those things when possible. Eat smaller meals throughout the day, and dont eat too late at night. Dont lie down too soon after eating. Limit the use of alcohol. If you use tobacco, try to quit. Stress and lack of sleep also can worsen symptoms.
How Can I Prevent Or Reduce My Risk Of Getting Travelers Diarrhea
Always be cautious of the food and drinks you consume when traveling abroad. While these precautions wont completely prevent travelers diarrhea, they can reduce your risk.
- Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
- Carry an alcohol-based sanitizer to clean your hands with.
- Keep children from crawling or sitting on the ground.
- Avoid swimming in contaminated water.
- Don’t swallow any shower water.
- Brush your teeth with bottled water.
- Avoid drinks with ice cubes that might be made from tap water.
- Avoid fresh produce unless you can peel it yourself.
- Stick to foods and drinks that are well cooked and served hot.
- Stick to canned or bottled beverages.
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Home Remedies For An Upset Stomach
An upset stomach is a nonmedical term describing a range of gastrointestinal symptoms like gas, bloating, indigestion, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea.
Next time youre feeling any of these symptoms, try these home remedies from Nebraska Medicine gastroenterologist Sarah Malik, MBBS, to feel better.
Peppermint oil
For centuries, peppermint oil has been used to treat gastrointestinal ailments. Peppermint oil possesses antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulating and anesthetic activities, all of which may help gut disorders. Peppermint oil can relax painful muscle contractions along your food pipe.
Eucalyptus oil, found in vapor rub
Vapor rub contains ingredients that can provide a soothing effect if rubbed on the belly. It contains eucalyptus oil, which fights against bacteria, improves your immune system and reduces inflammation. It also contains menthol, camphor oil and nutmeg oil, which have been used to relieve pain.
Ginger
Herbal medicines are also effective for nausea. People have used ginger root to soothe troubled stomachs for the past 2,000 years. Various preclinical and clinical studies also support ginger’s helpful properties. Try ginger tea with lemon for a relaxing, comforting drink.
Sports drinks and noncaffeinated sodas
Certain foods make an upset stomach worse
Some people with chronic stomach discomfort are more sensitive to certain foods:
Causes Of Abdominal Pain And Diarrhea
Most people occasionally experience abdominal pain and diarrhea for a short time. Changes to your diet, consuming too much alcohol, and indigestion may cause these symptoms.
Frequent, constant, or severe abdominal pain and diarrhea may indicate a disease or a more serious medical issue. Diarrhea that gets progressively worse and is bloody can also be a sign of a more serious issue. Possible causes of abdominal pain and diarrhea include:
The above conditions and disorders can cause inflammation in different parts of your digestive tract, like the stomach and intestines. When your digestive system is inflamed, you might have cramps and trouble with typical digestive processes. This usually results in abdominal pain and diarrhea.
Abdominal pain and diarrhea that last for more than a week or keep coming back may be a sign of an intestinal disease or disorder. Talk with your doctor if youve experienced these symptoms for more than a week or on a reoccurring basis.
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How Can I Relieve Discomfort In The Rectal Area Caused By Diarrhea
Diarrhea often means frequent trips to the bathroom. This can cause discomforts like:
- Pain during bowel movements.
If youre experiencing any of these discomforts, there are a few things you can do to help, including:
- Sitting in a few inches of lukewarm water in a bathtub.
- Patting your rectal area dry with a clean soft towel after getting out of the tub or shower. Dont rub the area dry because that will only make the irritation worse.
Stop Stomach Pain And Diarrhea After Eating
Many people experience stomach pain and diarrhea after eating. Gastrointestinal discomfort is the most common complication of food poisoning.
It can be caused by food that is contaminated or spoiled, or by a virus like a rotavirus. Here are some ways to stop stomach pain and diarrhea after eating.
The best way to stop stomach pain and diarrhea after eating is to drink plenty of fluids. Fluid intake will help to prevent dehydration. Additionally, drinking fluids will help to keep your stomach full, which will reduce the risk of stomach pain and diarrhea.
You should also eat foods that are high in fiber. Foods like whole grains and vegetables are high in fiber and will help to keep your stomach full. You can also try taking some over-the-counter medication.
This type of medication is often very effective in treating diarrhea. You can also try to prevent stomach pain and diarrhea by avoiding the foods that you know cause stomach pain and diarrhea. This can be difficult, but it is worth a try.
You should also talk to your doctor about your symptoms. Your doctor can help you to figure out what is causing the stomach pain and diarrhea.
How to avoid these issues
Stomach pain and diarrhea after eating are not only uncomfortable but can also be dangerous. There are many ways to avoid these issues. Here are nine ways to stop stomach pain and diarrhea after eating.
How to relieve stomach pain and diarrhea
stomach pain and diarrhea after eating
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Rice Water To Relieve Stomachache
Last but not least, look to rice more specifically, look to the leftover water after you cook rice.
Rice water is capable of forming a coating over certain membranes like, for instance, the lining of your stomach. This barrier can be a soothing lining to help ease inflammation and offer relief from stomach pain.
For a simple rice water remedy, first wash one-half cup of white rice.
- Add rice to six cups of boiled water, cover, and allow to sit until rice is tender.
- Strain the water into a cup to cool.
- Add one-half teaspoon of honey.
- Sip on two cups daily.
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Lime Or Lemon Juice Baking Soda And Water
Some studies suggest that mixing lime or lemon juice in water with a pinch of baking soda can help relieve heartburn and indigestion by reducing stomach acidity.
Pros and cons
While this home remedy may help with an upset stomach, it may not taste pleasant. Additionally, consuming too much baking soda
Basil leaves also contain high linoleic acid levels, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
Pros and cons
Basil is usually available to purchase in grocery stores, gardening stores, and online.
However, those in food deserts may have to rely on online stores if they find it difficult to source fresh basil.
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What Causes Abdominal Pain And Diarrhea After Eating
Identifying the cause of your condition can help you to work with your health care provider on the effective treatment plan. Here are some situations that may be to blame for your symptoms
1. Viral Infection
Viral infection is a common cause of stomach cramps and diarrhea. They can cause diarrhea as well as make your digestive track super sensitive. The effects of viral infections usually last for a few days and then the symptoms subside. You may consult with your doctor for treatment.
2. Food Poisoning
Its hilarious that our bodies can identify what they should or shouldnt eat. In case you happen to eat contaminated food or drink contaminated water, the most probable way your body will get rid of it is through diarrhea, and you may feel some discomfort in the stomach. For instance, diarrhea after eating salad may mean that the salad was contaminated. Some cases of food poisoning are usually severe and if symptoms persist, immediately seek the help of a doctor.
3. Lactose Intolerance
In case you have an allergic reaction to lactose- a type of sugar mainly found in dairy products, then you may experience stomach cramps and diarrhea. if you take foods with lactose.
Sugar malabsorption is another condition related to lactose intolerance. In this case, ones body is unable to absorb sugars such as fructose and lactose properly. If these sugars reach the intestines, they may result in gastrointestinal issues as well as diarrhea.
4. Toddlers Diarrhea
What To Do About Fluids When You Have Diarrhea
Do drink plenty of fluids. A good rule of thumb is to drink at least 1 cup of liquid every time you have a loose bowel movement. Water, Pedialyte, fruit juices, caffeine-free soda, and salty broths are some good choices. According to the Cleveland Clinic, salt helps slow down the fluid loss, and sugar will help your body absorb the salt.
Dont consume beverages at extreme temperatures. Consume all liquids at room temperature, or slightly warmed, advises Dr. Ganjhu. Anything too hot or too cold can cause nausea.
Do drink herbal tea. There is some research to suggest that products containing certain combinations of herbs may help an upset stomach. One research review cited the potential favorable effects of drinking a chamomile preparation that is combined with other herbs in treating diarrhea.
Dont consume caffeine, alcohol, or certain sodas. Caffeine and alcohol can irritate the digestive tract and worsen diarrhea, according to the U.S. Library of Medicine. Sodas containing high-fructose corn syrup can also cause trouble when you have an upset stomach. According to a study published in the journal Healthcare, large amounts of fructose can lead to gas, bloating, and diarrhea.
Dilute your water with fruit juice. Water can sometimes be nauseating when you have diarrhea. Ganjhu recommends diluting it with fruit juice, like cranberry or apple juice, to make it easier to tolerate.
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