In general, acute diarrhea heal after 1 or 2 days with repos and some changes in diet. During this time, the diet should include only liquids to prevent dehydration, then a gradual intake of certain foods.

For diarrhea associated with takingantibiotics, symptoms usually stop within a few days of stopping antibiotic therapy.

Prevent dehydration

Drink every day at least 1 to 2 liters water, vegetable or lean meat broths, rice or barley water, clear teas or caffeinated sodas. Avoid alcohol and drinks that contain caffeine, which have the effect of increasing the loss of water and mineral salts. Also, avoid drinking several glasses of carbonated drinks, since their high sugar content can cause diarrhea.

Adults who have severe diarrhea – as is sometimes the case with traveler’s diarrhea – should drink a rehydration solution. Obtain one at a pharmacy (Gastrolyte®) or prepare one yourself (see recipes below).

Some elderly, just like the young children, may have more difficulty feeling their thirst or even signaling it to those around them. Help from a loved one is therefore very important.

Feeding advice

As long as the major ailments persist, it is better to avoid eat the following foods, which make cramps and diarrhea worse.

• Dairy products ;
• Citrus juices;
• Meat ;
• Spicy dishes;
• The sweets ;
• Foods high in fat (including fried foods);
• Foods that contain wheat flour (bread, pasta, pizza, etc.);
• Corn and bran, which are high in fiber;
• Fruits, with the exception of bananas, which are said to be quite beneficial, even in young children aged 5 to 12 months^{2 ;}

• Raw vegetables.

First reintroduce the starchy like white rice, unsweetened cereals, white bread and crackers. These foods may cause mild discomfort. It is better to persevere than to stop eating, unless the discomfort becomes severe again. Gradually add fruits and vegetables (potatoes, cucumber, squash), yogurt, then protein foods (lean meat, fish, eggs, cheese, etc.).

pharmaceuticals

It is better not to treat a diarrhea, even if it causes discomfort. Consult a physician before taking any medication for diarrhea, even those available over the counter. Some products prevent the body from eliminating the infection, so they are of no help. Also, if there is blood in the stool or severe abdominal cramps are felt, it is imperative to consult a doctor.

Some medications may be useful for travelers who have to travel long bus or car trips, or who do not have easy access to medical services. Medication anti-peristaltics stop diarrhea by slowing bowel movements (for example, loperamide, such as Imodium® or Diarr-Eze®). Others decrease the secretion of water in the intestines (for example, bismuth salicylate, or Pepto-Bismol®, which also acts as an antacid).

If needed, antibiotics can overcome diarrhea caused by bacteria or a parasite.

hospitalization

In more severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary. Doctors then use an intravenous drip to rehydrate the body. Antibiotics are prescribed as needed to treat severe bacterial diarrhea.