How to Treat Diarrhea
Do you REALLY know how to pack correctly? We didn’t either... Click here to learn How to Pack Like a Pro: http://bit.ly/1SOIXuw Watch more Digestion & Stomach Problems videos: http://www.howcast.com/videos/383497-How-to-Treat-Diarrhea Symptoms of diarrhea include frequent loose stools, abdominal cramps, and dehydration, all of which are uncomfortable for you or your children. Because diarrhea is usually not a serious illness, it can easily be treated at home. Step 1: Increase fluids Treat your child's diarrhea at home by increasing fluids that help replace electrolytes, like sports drinks. For babies, offer them additional breast milk or formula. Tip Avoid plain water, fruit juice, and sodas. Step 2: Keep regular diet Continue your child on their regular diet. Step 3: Wash hands Frequently wash your hands and your child's hands. Keep suspected diarrhea contaminated areas clean. Step 4: Consult a doctor Consult a doctor if your child's symptoms do not improve within 24 hours. Call a doctor if your baby has not had a wet diaper in over three hours, has a fever higher than 102 degrees Fahrenheit, is unusually sleepy, has a dry mouth, or has bloody or black stools. Step 5: Drink clear fluids Treat diarrhea in adults by drinking plenty of clear fluids such as water, broths, and gelatins. Avoid coffee, alcohol, and apple and pear juices. Step 6: Add solid foods Gradually add solid and low fiber foods such as soda crackers, toast, and chicken. Tip Avoid dairy products, high fiber, and fatty foods. Step 7: Call a doctor Consult a doctor if you are an adult and the diarrhea lasts longer than three days, you are dehydrated, and you have severe rectal or abdominal pain, bloody or black stools, or a temperature above 102 degrees Fahrenheit. Eating the right things -- or getting the right advice from the doctor -- will have you back to your regular self in no time. Did You Know? Acute diarrhea is commonly caused by consuming food or water contaminated with a viral infection, bacteria, or parasite.