Acute Diarrhea

Acute diarrhea is a common condition characterized by loose, watery stools that typically last for less than two weeks. Here is some information about the symptoms, causes, testing, conventional treatment, functional medicine treatments, IV drip therapy, and recommended supplements for support for acute diarrhea:

Symptoms:

• Frequent loose, watery stools (usually three or more times a day)
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Dehydration
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite

Causes:

• Viral infections (such as norovirus or rotavirus)
• Bacterial infections (such as E. coli or Salmonella)
• Parasitic infections (such as Giardia or Cryptosporidium)
• Food poisoning from contaminated food or water
• Antibiotic use, which can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria.

Testing:

• Stool analysis to check for infection or inflammation.
• Blood tests to check for electrolyte imbalances or signs of infection.
• Medical history and physical examination to determine potential causes

Conventional treatment:

• Rehydration with fluids and electrolytes (such as oral rehydration solutions)
• Antidiarrheal medications (such as loperamide) to slow down bowel movements
• Antibiotics for bacterial infections (in some cases)

Functional Medicine treatments:

• Identifying and addressing the underlying cause of diarrhea (such as gut dysbiosis or food sensitivities)
• Dietary changes to remove trigger foods and support gut healing.
• Probiotics and prebiotics to support healthy gut bacteria.
• Addressing stress and other lifestyle factors that may be contributing to diarrhea.

IV Drip therapy:

• IV fluids and electrolytes to quickly rehydrate the body.
• Vitamins and minerals to support immune function and replenish nutrient stores.
• Anti-inflammatory agents to reduce gut inflammation.

Recommended supplements for support:

• Probiotics to support healthy gut bacteria.
• Digestive enzymes to improve nutrient absorption and digestion.
• Glutamine to support gut healing.
• Zinc to support immune function and reduce inflammation.
• Vitamin D to support immune function and reduce inflammation
• Fish oil or other anti-inflammatory supplements