Most of us can relate to the debilitating effects of a ‘runny tummy’ or diarrhoea.  This is often caused by contaminated water, food, or even stress. It is unpleasant in any form, but if it goes untreated, you can run the risk of dehydration which can be life-threatening.

Be healthwise:

  • When you are ill, you need to drink plenty of clear liquids, like:
    • treated or distilled water
    • broths (clear soup, like chicken soup or bone broths (teaspoon of Bovril or Marmite dissolved in boiled water)
    • teas (e.g., Rooibos)
    • juices (apple juice is good as it contains pectin)
  • Avoid caffeine and alcohol. These can make dehydration worse.
  • Stay away from food that will make it worse:
    • sugar-loaded drinks or foods, including artificial sweeteners
    • fried or greasy food
    • cauliflower, cabbage, beans, and peppers that can cause bloating, gas, and discomfort
  • Take probiotics (in pill or nutritional form) to restore good bacteria to your gut.
  • Add semisolid and low-fibre foods gradually as your bowel movements return to normal; e.g. snack on dry crackers or toast, eat eggs, rice, or skinless chicken.

If the ‘bug’ doesn’t clear up within 24-hours, speak to a pharmacist or GP about medication to bind your gut and/or soothe cramping. It is essential to let the health professional know when it started, what symptoms you are experiencing, where you live, if you have been in contact with others who have had stomach complaints, and your recent travel history.

If you’re experiencing severe diarrhoea, have blood in your stools, or have any symptoms of dehydration (see below), visit a health professional immediately.

STAY HYDRATED!

If there is a risk of dehydration from diarrhoea or vomiting, you need more than just water/fluids, you need electrolytes too.  You can drink Energade, or Rehydrat, or make your own rehydration solution to restore your electrolyte balance (the right amount of salt and sugar you need).

DIY REHYDRATION SOLUTION

Makes 5 (200ml) cups

  • Six (6) level teaspoons of sugar
  • ½ teaspoon of salt
  • One litre of boiled water
  • Stir to dissolve the sugar and water
  • Let it cool and sip often

Dehydration can be life-threatening.  It occurs when the amount of water leaving the body is greater than the amount being taken in. We lose water when we urinate, sweat (fever), vomit, or have loose stools.

It can be different for babies and children or the elderly, but some common signs are:

  • Less urination, more concentrated urine (darker colour)
  • Increased thirst
  • Dry mouth
  • Dry eyes (no tears)
  • Less sweating
  • Skin pinch test on the upper hand – pinch the skin and release. It should bounce back to the original position quickly. It could be a sign of dehydration if it is slow to do so.

You need to get medical attention if the above symptoms don’t improve with a rehydration solution or if you get any other symptoms like these below:

  • Lightheaded (dizzy, especially when standing).
  • Muscle cramps
  • Uncontrollable nausea and vomiting (can’t keep fluids down)
  • Heart palpitations

Severe dehydration can lead to confusion and weakness as the brain and other body organs receive less blood. Finally, coma and organ failure will occur if the dehydration remains untreated and can cause death.

If you have any health concerns, speak to a health professional. You can consult your GP, call the nurse-line linked to your healthcare plan, or speak to a LifeAssist health coach on weekdays and during office hours.