Diarrhea is a condition that is characterized by the passing of frequent watery and loose stools. This could occur along with many other symptoms and could be caused by various factors. One of these causes is the intake of antibiotics. Many antibiotics result in diarrhea in several cases. This happens because the antibiotics many cause irritation in the bowel, resulting in the onset of diarrhea. In some cases, the antibiotics can make it more likely for a bacterial infection to develop. This bacterial infection then results in diarrhea. Bacteria are naturally present in the intestinal tract and some of it is good bacteria while some of it is bad bacteria. The body usually maintains a balance between the two. But sometimes antibiotics disrupt the balance of the bacteria, allowing the bad bacteria to grow and spread further. This causes the loose and frequent bowel movements that are associated with diarrhea. This type of diarrhea is generally mild and stops after the antibiotics are discontinued. In severe cases, colitis occurs in which the colon becomes inflamed. A more severe form of this is pseudomembranous colitis, which causes stomach pain, fever and blood discharge in the stools.
The symptoms of antibiotic associated diarrhea can vary in different cases. They can either be mild or severe. Usually the balance of bacteria in the system is only slightly altered and as such watery stools or an increased frequency of bowel movements is likely to occur. These symptoms may develop a few days after one begins to take the antibiotics. They end in about two weeks after one stops taking the course. If the balance is hampered to a large extent, then symptoms of colitis and pseudomembranous colitis start developing. These include pain and cramps in the abdomen, loose and watery stools, high fever, blood and pus discharge in the stools, nausea and dehydration. This requires treatment and recovery will generally occur in a couple of weeks. However, the symptoms may recur, which then require additional treatment.
When affected by antibiotic associated diarrhea, it is important to consume plenty of water and other liquids. Since the electrolyte balance is disrupted and dehydration can occur, liquids with potassium and sodium will be helpful. Consume food that is easy to digest such as rice, baked potato, bananas and yogurt. Avoid milk and dairy products as these can aggravate the diarrhea. Eat more frequent smaller meals rather than three large meals. These will be easier on the digestive system. Refrain from consuming fried and spicy foods. For an effective home remedy for treating diarrhea, mix a pinch of turmeric powder in water or buttermilk and drink. Carrot soup may also be consumed as it is effective in restricting growth of the harmful bacteria.