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Diarrhoea and other gastro-intestinal upsets in adults
(05/03 RMD)
Diarrhoea and mild cramp like pain (colic) is common with some viral
infections, food poisoning and dietary indiscretion. It particularly
affects people with irritable bowel syndrome.
These symptoms are usually self limiting but can be inconvenient or
upsetting.
Anti diarrhoeal treatment bought over the counter (Imodium) can be
useful after the 2nd day but prior to that just ensures that any virus
causing the symptoms remain in the bowel. It also can cause constipation
especially in those with irritable bowel syndrome.
In the first few days Oral rehydration solution is the best drink to
heal and calm the bowel. It also provides water and calories so you
don't need to worry about eating. It can be bought over the counter as
Dioralyte, Lucozade Sport or Isostar.
It can also be made up as follows:
Take half a 5ml spoon (level teaspoon) of salt and Eight 5ml spoons of
sugar and add to 1 litre (1 and 3/4 pints) of water.
Dissolve thoroughly and then flavour to suit with orange/lemon or
blackcurrant squash (optional).
Drink as much of this solution as you like but at least 1 glass an hour
sipped frequently over the first day. After that it can be drunk
whenever you are thirsty.
An alternative drink is 50% real Coke and water with a pinch of salt to
each glass.
When you start to eat again avoid greasy or spicy foods and milk for
about a week. Live yoghurt (Bio yoghurt or Yakult) will help re
establish a normal stool more quickly
Diarrhoea and other gastro-intestinal upsets in children
(05/03 RMD)
Most diarrhoeal illnesses in children are due to enteroviruses. These
are viruses that cause some cold like symptoms and then go on to cause
vomiting and diarrhoea. Most children only vomit over a 24 hour period,
though diarrhoea may go on for upto 10 days.
The main aim of treatment is keep children adequately hydrated.
In the first few days Oral rehydration solution is the best drink to
heal and calm the bowel. It also provides water and calories so you
don't need to worry about eating. It can be bought over the counter as
Dioralyte, Lucozade Sport or Isostar.
It can also be made up as follows:
Take half a 5ml spoon (level teaspoon) of salt and Eight 5ml spoons of
sugar and
add to 1 litre (1 and 3/4 pints) of water.
Dissolve thoroughly and then flavour to suit with orange/lemon or
blackcurrant squash (optional).
Drink as much of this solution as you like but at least 1 glass an hour
sipped frequently over the first day. After that it can be drunk
whenever you are thirsty.
An alternative drink is 50% real Coke and water with a pinch of salt to
each glass.
When you start to eat again avoid greasy or spicy foods and milk for
about a week. Fromage frais and yoghurts are useful foods at this time.
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 Whitnash
Medical Centre
110 Coppice Road
Whitnash
Warwickshire
CV31 2LT
Tel: 01926 316711
Fax: 01926 427260
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