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Chronische & metabole gezondheid

Diarree

Diarree is een veelvoorkomend spijsverteringsprobleem dat losse, waterige ontlasting en frequente stoelgang veroorzaakt.

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Dr. G. Varbanov

Dr. G. Varbanov

Huisarts | UIN: 0400005105

Beoordeeld op:
Dr. Georgi Varbanov is een huisarts die zich toelegt op evidence-based zorg en ziektepreventie.
Diarrhoea

What is Diarrhoea?

Diarrhoea occurs when the digestive system processes food too quickly, leading to frequent, loose, or watery stools. It can be acute (lasting a few days) or chronic (lasting more than four weeks) and may result from infections, dietary intolerances, medications, or medical conditions.

Common Causes of Diarrhoea:

  • Viral Infections: Norovirus, rotavirus, and other stomach viruses.
  • Bacterial Infections: E. coli, Salmonella, and Campylobacter from contaminated food or water.
  • Food Intolerances: Lactose or gluten intolerance.
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Functional gut disorders causing diarrhoea or constipation.
  • Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhoea: Disrupts gut bacteria balance.
  • Traveler’s Diarrhoea: Caused by consuming contaminated food or water in foreign locations.

Diarrhoea can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and fatigue, making proper treatment essential.

Who Needs Treatment for Diarrhoea?

Behandeling wordt aanbevolen voor mensen die last hebben van:

  • Frequent watery stools lasting more than 24 hours.
  • Severe dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, or low urine output).
  • Blood or mucus in stool.
  • Diarrhoea with fever, nausea, or abdominal pain.
  • Chronic or recurring diarrhoea related to an underlying condition.

Best Ways to Manage & Treat Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea management involves fluid replacement, dietary adjustments, and medications:

Medications for Diarrhoea Relief:
  • Anti-Diarrhoeal Agents (Loperamide, Imodium): Slow bowel movements to reduce stool frequency.
  • Antibiotics (Ciprofloxacin, Rifaximin/Xifaxan): Used for bacterial diarrhoea, traveler’s diarrhoea, and infections.
  • Antispasmodic Medications (Colofac, Duspatalin): Help relax intestinal muscles and reduce cramping in IBS-related diarrhoea.
Hydration & Electrolyte Replacement:
  • Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) restore lost fluids and electrolytes.
  • Water, herbal teas, and clear broths prevent dehydration.
  • Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sugary drinks, which can worsen diarrhoea.
Dietary Adjustments for Recovery:
  • BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast):
    • Bananas: Contain potassium to replace lost electrolytes.
    • Rice: Low in fiber and helps firm stools.
    • Applesauce: Provides pectin to absorb excess liquid.
    • Toast: A bland carbohydrate that is easy to digest.
  • Probiotic-rich foods (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut): Restore gut bacteria balance.
  • Avoid dairy, fatty foods, and artificial sweeteners, which can worsen symptoms.

A well-managed diarrhoea treatment plan can:

  • Prevent dehydration and restore electrolyte balance.
  • Reduce stool frequency and improve digestion.
  • Ease stomach cramps and discomfort.
  • Support gut health and microbiome recovery.
  • Lower the risk of complications from infections.

Belangrijke overwegingen om in gedachten te houden zijn onder andere de volgende:

  • Diarrhoea lasting more than 48 hours should be evaluated by a doctor.
  • Persistent diarrhoea may indicate an underlying condition requiring medical attention.
  • Antibiotics should only be used when diarrhoea is caused by a bacterial infection.
  • Proper handwashing and food safety practices reduce the risk of infectious diarrhoea.

Veelgestelde vragen

Vind antwoorden op veelgestelde vragen over Diarrhoea

Loperamide (Imodium) is an effective over-the-counter medication that slows stool movement, reducing urgency and stool frequency within hours. It is suitable for short-term relief but should not be used for bacterial or chronic diarrhoea.
Acute diarrhoea usually lasts 1 to 3 days, while chronic diarrhoea may persist for weeks and require further medical evaluation.
Antibiotics like Ciprofloxacin or Rifaximin (Xifaxan) are effective for bacterial diarrhoea and traveller's diarrhoea but should not be used for viral infections.
A low-fibre diet, including bananas, white rice, applesauce, toast (BRAT diet), and boiled potatoes, helps firm stools. Probiotics support gut recovery.
Seek medical attention if diarrhoea lasts more than 48 hours, contains blood, causes dehydration, or is accompanied by fever or severe pain.

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