Effects of Diarrhea

Diarrhea indicates abnormally increased frequency of bowel movements and looseness of stools. Healthy individuals experience two-three bowel movements per day. More than three bowel movements can be called diarrhea. Liquid stools indicate dysfunction of the digestive system. Having loose stools without experiencing an increase in the frequency of bowel movements is also considered as diarrhea.

Diarrhea, lasting from a few days up to a week, is called acute diarrhea and that which lasts for more than three weeks is called chronic diarrhea. Irritable bowel syndrome, overgrowth of bacteria in the intestine, chronic infectious diseases, endocrine diseases, cancer, etc., can lead to prolonged diarrhea. Dysfunction of the digestive system leads to increased water in the stools which results in looseness of stools. Before discussing 'diarrhea side effects', let us first take a look at the main causes of loose stools.

Causes of Diarrhea

• The amount of water in the stools (loose/watery stools) increases due to increased secretion of fluids by the stomach and/or small intestine.
• Diarrhea sets in when removal of water from the food is not done by the intestine or colon, as the undigested liquid food (chyme) passes too quickly through them.
• Diarrhea can occur when small intestine and colon do not absorb enough water.

Any of the following situations can cause diarrhea.

• Viral, bacterial and parasitic infections affect the digestive health of an individual, causing acute diarrhea. Inflammation of the lining of the small intestine leads to increased secretion of the fluids, resulting in loose stools. Inflammation can reduce the time available for the absorption of water from the chyme.
• Starting a new medication, especially antibiotics, chemotherapy medications, medications for high blood pressure, medications to control irregular heart beats, etc. can lead to diarrhea.
• Other diseases like collagenous colitis can affect the ability of the colon to absorb water.
• Bacteria can cause acute food poisoning, resulting in diarrhea. Toxins or chemicals stimulate the lining to secrete extra fluid.
• Diarrhea is usually noticed as the side effect of other diseases like cancer, liver diseases, etc.
• Laxative abuse while following weight loss diets can lead to chronic diarrhea.
• Excessive intake of herbal or any other type of medicines, dietary supplements can cause diarrhea.

Effects of Diarrhea

• Dehydration, wherein excessive loss of body fluids and minerals (electrolytes) is experienced, is the main side effect of diarrhea. Due to diarrhea, far more than normal amount of fluid is expelled by the body, which eventually results in dehydration. People with diarrhea are expected to replenish the body fluids by drinking maximum amount of water or clear soups. Too much loss of body fluid due to over-excretion can affect the functions of the bodily systems.
• Severe diarrhea can affect the health of the heart. So, you should see your physician immediately and report the diarrhea symptoms. Prompt and correct treatment can help prevent serious health complications.
• Dehydration can lead to orthostatic hypotension wherein fainting upon standing is experienced. It occurs as the volume of blood gets reduced. Low volume of blood causes a drop in blood pressure levels upon standing.
• In case of prolonged diarrhea, body loses the electrolytes along with water. Mineral deficiencies, especially sodium or potassium deficiencies can lead to life-threatening health complications.
• Diarrhea in infants and young children can result in several health complications. It can even affect the function of the brain, if not promptly treated. Usually, infants quickly become dehydrated.
• Diarrhea side effects that are quite common include excessive thirst and dry mouth. Drinking lots of water can help avoid further health complications.
• Moderate to severe abdominal pain or tenderness is also quite common for the patients of diarrhea. Stomach pain and diarrhea go hand in hand.
• Diarrhea is a common side effect of certain drugs and medicines. Once diarrhea sets in, effectiveness of the drugs or medicines is lessened.
• Acute diarrhea in pregnant woman can affect the health of the fetus. So, pregnant women should take extra care to prevent diarrhea.
• When diarrhea sets in, one may complain about the irritation of the anus (due to the frequent passage of watery stools).
• Diarrhea usually results in loss of energy and weakness. Chronic diarrhea can lead to excessive fatigue.
• In some cases, diarrhea is followed by nausea and vomiting.
• Abnormal levels of chloride and bicarbonate can be experienced after diarrhea.
• In case of prolonged and severe diarrhea, kidney failure, diminished urine output, shock, acidosis (too much of acid in the blood) can be experienced. And if not promptly treated, diarrhea can eventually lead to coma.

Consuming oral re-hydration solutions containing glucose and electrolytes, and drinking adequate water helps prevent dehydration. This is a good home remedy for diarrhea. Absorbents which bind water in the small intestine and the colon help avoid diarrhea side effects. Anti-motility medications, which promote relaxation of the muscles of the small intestine and colon, and bismuth compounds work great for diarrhea. Anti motility medications and bismuth compounds should be taken after consultation with your physician. The two main absorbents, attapulgite and polycarbophil, are available as over-the-counter medications. But when your bodily systems are not working properly, you should consult your physician before taking medicines.