At times, diarrhoea is accompanied by other symptoms like nausea and vomiting. Frequent and severe diarrhoea requires immediate attention. If left untreated, one of the biggest complications of this condition is dehydration (when your body loses excess fluid).

Extreme dehydration is a life-threatening condition that damages the kidneys, heart, and brain.

In this blog, we will discuss the warning signs of dehydration and its preventive measures.

When to See a Doctor Immediately?

When individuals suffer from dehydration, the body does not have enough water to carry out its normal function. So, look for these symptoms and visit your doctor immediately.

• Frequent urination
• Excessive feeling of thirst
• Dark coloured urine
• Dry skin, mouth and tongue
• Fatigue
• Lightheadedness
• Sunken eyes or cheeks
• Inability to sweat
• Bloating or belly cramps
• Frequent urge to clear stools

If you are experiencing all these symptoms, it might indicate that the dehydration is in the advanced stage. In that case, immediately visit a top gastroenterologist in Kolkata to receive appropriate treatment and care for your condition.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Getting Dehydrated

Long-term diarrhoea leads to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances which your body needs. Hence, if you are suffering from diarrhoea or vomiting, it is essential to prevent dehydration in the first place.

The first and foremost thing to avoid getting dehydrated is that you are required to drink plenty of water. Even if you are not sick, it is essential to drink at least 2 -3 liters of water, especially during warm and hot weather.

However, some patients may suffer from certain medical conditions like kidney problems or urinary incontinence. In that case, ask your doctor about the amount of fluid you are required to take.

Water indeed rehydrates the body, but water alone cannot replace the requirements of essential salts which is extremely crucial if you are vomiting or having watery stools.

Here are the fluids you must intake along with water to restore fluid in the body.

• Electrolyte drinks

Electrolyte drinks are a must for babies if they have diarrhoea or vomiting. As an adult also, you must take electrolytes as diarrhea leads to the loss of both water and salt from the body.

• Broth

If you are not feeling nauseous, you can drink broth to keep yourself hydrated. You can opt for vegetable or chicken broth. It will not only keep your body hydrated but also provide nutrition.

• Fruit juice

Fruit juices are a great way to keep your body hydrated and refreshed. But make sure to avoid the pulp because it contains fibre which will make your diarrhoea even worse, eventually taking out fluid from the body.

What are the Foods to Eat and Avoid?

A top gastroenterologist in Kolkata listed some food items that you can include in your diet if you are suffering from diarrhoea to prevent dehydration.

• Cucumber
• Watermelons
• Bell peppers
• Strawberries
• Chicken without skin
• Smoothies

Below are some foods that you must avoid

• High fiber foods
• Raw vegetables
• Fried foods
• Foods containing high sugar
• Caffeine

Conclusion

Doctors recommend to seek medical attention if your diarrhoea or vomiting persists for more than two or more days. Moreover, if it is accompanied by other symptoms like dark urine, high fever, or pain in the abdomen, in that case, it is time to immediately call for help as it may indicate extreme dehydration.

The post Ways to Prevent Dehydration When You have Diarrhoea appeared first on Dr Indraneel Saha.