Watery diarrhea can indicate an underlying medical condition. Good examples are viruses that can easily infiltrate the digestive system and affect the formation of stool. In some cases, the intestines end up inflamed or the stool can become hard. The causes of watery diarrhea can be managed with certain medications and even surgery in severe cases. When it comes to diarrhea, prompt care and treatment is a must to prevent complications. If you want to learn how to provide care to this condition, click here.
Cholera
It is important to note that cholera is basically an infectious disease that occurs due to exposure to contaminated water. The symptoms of this condition include persistent watery diarrhea that appears like rice water, vomiting, muscle cramping, dehydration, nausea and low blood pressure. Among children, cholera can lead to seizures, fever, drowsiness and even coma.
The bacteria that causes cholera attaches to the intestines and disrupts the exchange of potassium and sodium that is required for the proper regulation of fluid in the body. The bacteria are usually present in raw vegetables, shellfish and fruits as well as in grains such as rice.
The treatment for cholera typically involves fluid and electrolyte replacement with intravenous fluids, oral rehydration salts and antibiotics in order to eliminate the bacteria. Additionally, zinc supplements can also be given in order to minimize the diarrhea among children.
Fecal impaction
Fecal impaction basically refers to hardened stool that develops inside the rectum. The specific indications of fecal impaction include abrupt watery diarrhea particularly among individuals suffering from chronic constipation, rectal bleeding and abdominal pain. Take note that fecal impaction can also lead to straining.
Individuals who are taking medications such as anti-diarrhea, anticholinergics and methadone as well as those who are bedridden are at risk for developing fecal impaction.
The treatment for fecal impaction typically involves medications such as laxatives and stool softeners. As part of the treatment, the individual must be encouraged to add fruits, grains and vegetables to his/her diet in order to loosen the hardened stools. Additionally, exercising on a regular basis can also promote bowel movement. The manual removal of hardened stool via surgery or the administration of an enema can also help out.
Crohn’s disease
Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease defined for the persistent, watery diarrhea, fatigue, fever, poor appetite and stomach cramps. The condition can also lead to joint pain, weight loss, swollen gums, constipation, mouth ulcers and bloody stools.
The cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown but the immune system plays a role. The risk factors for this condition include smoking, having a Jewish descent as well as a family history of the disease. The treatment for this condition typically involves administration of medications such as aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, antibiotics, immunomodulators and biological therapy in order to manage the condition. Oftentimes, surgery might be required in order to eliminate a region of the damaged bowel.