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Diarrhea
Diarrhea can be caused by food poisoning, stress, incomplete digestion of food, viral or bacterial infection, caffeine or other drugs, or drinking contaminated water. Frequent watery, or loose, stools characterize diarrhea. Mucus or blood in the stool may be a sign of more serious illnesses. Because continued diarrhea over many days can cause dehydration, it is important to consume plenty of liquids during an episode.
Symptoms
 | Loose, watery stools; an increase in bowel movements; stomach pain and cramping. |
| See a doctor immediately if your child has the following accompanying symptoms: listlessness; looseness of skin; glazed eyes; dry mouth and tongue; and continuous crying. |
| If you have bloody, black tar-like stools, fever above 101 degrees for 2 days, severe rectal or stomach pain, advanced dehydration or reduced urination, consult your physician. |
How Alternative Medicine may potentially help?
There are many herbs, vitamins and minerals that may help keep the digestive tract healthy, form stools and kill the bacteria or parasites that may be causing the problem.
Herbs
| Blackberry root bark may help to ease the attacks of diarrhea. |
| Ginger can have a positive effect upon abdominal cramps. |
| Garlic may help to eliminate bacteria and parasites. |
Vitamins
| Vitamin B-complex plays a vital role in proper digestion. |
| Vitamin C is needed for healing and immunity. |
| Vitamin E protects the cell membranes that line the colon. |
Minerals
| Potassium may potentially replace what is lost in loose stools. |
| Calcium may potentially replace what is lost in loose stools. |
| Zinc aids in repair of damaged tissue in the digestive tract. |
Other Considerations
If diarrhea is chronic it might be a sign of underlying problems. Young children with chronic diarrhea should see a physician immediately.
Resources
| For more information, contact National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, 2 Information Way Bethesda, MD 20892-3570; 301/654-3810, M-F, 9-5 EST. Or check out the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Web site at www.niddk.nih.gov. |