What should I do if I have acute diarrhea?

The impact of acute diarrhea is relatively large. Because the condition cannot be controlled, it can easily lead to dehydration, weight loss, weakness and other adverse problems in patients. Therefore, attention should be paid to timely hydration, correct use of antibiotics, scientific diet adjustment, and let patients rest more.

1. "Starvation therapy" is not recommended when diarrhea occurs. It is advisable to eat some light and easily digestible liquid or semi-liquid food, and gradually transition to a normal diet after the symptoms improve.

2. Dehydration is a common complication of diarrhea, which can be manifested by thirst, less urine, dry and wrinkled skin, and sunken eyes. To prevent dehydration, you should drink more sugar and salt water. It is best to buy "oral rehydration salts" at the pharmacy. Patients who have become dehydrated or are unable to drink water due to severe vomiting should go to the hospital for intravenous rehydration.

3. Many patients use antibiotics as soon as they have diarrhea. This practice is incorrect because most cases of diarrhea do not require antibiotic treatment. The abuse of antibiotics may also lead to imbalance of normal intestinal flora. If you are unsure whether you should take antibiotics, visit a bowel clinic or get a consultation.

4. If the diarrhea is not serious, the condition can usually be improved within 2-3 days by adjusting diet, rest, preventing dehydration and some symptomatic treatment. If the diarrhea is severe, go to the hospital for treatment in time.