Introduction
Diarrhoea is the passing of loose or watery stools three or more times a day. While often a minor annoyance, severe diarrhoea can lead to rapid dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which can be life-threatening, especially in children and the elderly.
Symptoms
- Frequent loose, watery stools
- Abdominal cramps or pain
- Fever and thirst
- Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness)
- Blood in the stool (dysentery)
Causes & Risk Factors
- Viral infections (Rotavirus, Norovirus)
- Bacterial infections (E. coli, Salmonella, Cholera)
- Contaminated food or water
- Poor sanitation and hygiene
- Food intolerances or certain medications
Our Treatment Approach at GHCCD
GHCCD has a dedicated Communicable Diseases Wing for managing severe diarrhoea cases. Our primary focus is rapid rehydration. We provide Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) and, for severe cases, intravenous fluids to restore electrolyte balance.
Our microbiology lab analyzes stool samples to identify the causative organism, allowing us to provide targeted antibiotic or antiparasitic treatment when necessary. We also emphasize patient education on hygiene and safe water practices to prevent recurrence.
When to Visit GHCCD
Seek immediate care if you have signs of severe dehydration, a high fever, or if the diarrhoea lasts more than two days without improvement.
FAQ
Q: Is rehydration therapy free at GHCCD? A: Yes, all rehydration fluids (IV and ORS) and diagnostic tests for diarrhoea are provided free of charge.
Patient informationMore about this service
Diarrhoea
Diarrhoea
Diarrhea is a common condition characterized by the frequent passage of loose, watery stools. It can be caused by various factors, including infections (bacterial, viral, or parasitic), food intolerances, medications, or underlying gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Diarrhea can range from mild and self-limiting to severe and life-threatening, particularly in vulnerable populations
such as infants, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems.
Treatment For Diarrhoea
Hospital management of diarrhea focuses on rehydration, treating the underlying cause, and preventing complications. The key aspects include:
1. Rehydration: Intravenous fluids are administered to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which are common in severe cases of diarrhea. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) may also be given if the patient can tolerate oral intake.
2. Medications: Depending on the cause, antibiotics or antiparasitic medications may be prescribed for bacterial or parasitic infections. Antidiarrheal agents like loperamide may be used cautiously in non-infectious diarrhea to reduce stool frequency.
3. Nutritional support: Patients are encouraged to maintain an adequate diet, with a focus on easily digestible foods and avoiding items that may exacerbate symptoms. In some cases, a temporary diet modification may be required.
4. Monitoring and supportive care: Patients are closely monitored for signs of dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and other complications. In severe cases, additional supportive care may be needed, such as managing fever, abdominal pain, or other symptoms.
5. Infection control: In cases of infectious diarrhea, strict hygiene and infection control measures are implemented to prevent the spread of the infection within the hospital setting.
