Diarrhoea and constipation

Constipation

Technically, constipation is defined as having less than three bowel motions each week. The frequency of bowel movements varies significantly from person to person. While some people go to the bathroom multiple times daily, others only do it once or twice weekly. As long as you don’t deviate too much from your pattern, whatever your bowel movement pattern is, it’s particular to you and regular.

Besides this, there are a few other signs of constipation 

• Your stools are firm and dry.
• It hurts to go to the bathroom, and passing stools is challenging.
• You have the impression that you did not empty your bowels.

What can cause constipation?

• Inadequate exercise
• Insufficient liquid intake
• Inadequate dietary fibre intake
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Putting off the urge to use the restroom
• Habit or lifestyle changes brought on by things like travel, pregnancy, or old age
• Irregularities in intestinal function
• Laxative misuse

Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea is when your stools (or bowel movements) are loose and watery. It’s familiar and typically not dangerous. Infrequent bouts of diarrhoea are common. It often lasts two to three days. Others experience it more frequently. It may be the only symptom or coexist with others including nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, or weight loss.

What are the frequent causes of Diarrhoea?

• Specific food allergies
• Gastrointestinal illnesses, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
• Consuming meals that cause stomach discomfort
• Bacterial infection, which is the main factor in most cases of food poisoning
• Overuse of laxatives
• Bacteria, such as Campylobacter and Escherichia coli (E. coli), are frequently acquired from contaminated food. Other viruses, such as norovirus or rotavirus.

Symptoms of Diarrhoea

• Abdominal discomfort or cramps
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Blood in the stools
• Mucous in the stools
• An urgent need to go to the bathroom 

Busting Myths about Constipation and Diarrhoea

Myth: You should have one bowel movement every day

Fact: Some people visit three times a day, while others only do so thrice a week. On average bowel movement happens once a day. However, as long as you feel fine, skipping a few days is acceptable. You’re constipated if you have less than three bowel movements per week. If you experience fewer than one each week, you should consult a doctor.

Myth: Diarrhoea is not harmful

Fact: Dehydration brought on by diarrhoea can be fatal if left untreated. Dehydration is especially dangerous for young people, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems.

Myth: Flu vaccines prevent the stomach flu

Fact: The seasonal flu virus, often known as the influenza virus, frequently produces fever, body aches, and general discomfort but seldom diarrhoea. Typically, influenza affects the lungs and airways. Although the illness that some refer to as “stomach flu” might result in diarrhoea, it is not the same as influenza. 

Myth: Teething Causes Diarrhea 

Fact: It’s a common belief among parents that babies who are teething tend to get diarrhoea. However, it is untrue. When teething, your infant may be grumpy or agitated. However, consult your doctor if they also have diarrhoea or a fever

Stomach Disorder Treatment - Dr Manish Wadhwani's Clinic, Kailash Colony, Ulhasnagar

Dr. Manish Wadhwani's Clinic at Kailash Colony, Ulhasnagarteam have a team of experts who can help you cure Diarrhoea and Constipation issues in a better and faster way.

Service Type: Physician, Diabetologist and Clinical Cardiologist Services