Diarrhoea

Introduction
Diarrhoea is caused by various viral infections (gastro-enteritis) or by eating food that has gone off (food poisoning).

Symptoms
Three or more liquid/semi-liquid bowel movements in a day may mean you have diarrhoea. You may also have vomiting and a high temperature. Diarrhoea will make you feel weak because important body fluids and salts are lost.

Treatment: What you can do for yourself
Stop all Dairy products. Take frequent drinks of water or clear fluid (very dilute squashes or apple juice) In the very elderly it is important to replace lost salts by taking an Oral rehydration Solution (a mixture of salt and glucose which is added to water). These are available from your chemist. As the diarrhoea lessens, gradually try more solid food without fat. Grated apple or carrots and lean meats, dry bread or crackers are fine.

Prevention
Avoid spreading infection
Wash your hands after you go to toilet and after you change your baby’s nappy. Clean the toilet often with disinfectant. Always clean under the toilet seat.

*****REMEMBER YOUR CONTRACEPTIVE PILL WILL NOT GIVE
YOU FULL PROTECTION WHEN YOU HAVE DIARRHOEA *****

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