When to See a Doctor for Vaginitis Symptoms
Vaginitis is an incredibly common condition that many people stay home to treat. But when should you see a doctor to ensure you can manage the condition safely? We’ll give you the distinctions here.
What To Eat When You Have Diarrhea
Diarrhea can be something that happens to people from time to time. It’s a very common symptom of a number of physical and even psychological conditions, and it can be set off by something as simple as stress or eating the wrong thing. Diarrhea isn’t pleasant, and if it’s been happening for a while, we urge you to make a primary care visit with us.
But what if diarrhea occurs from time to time, and you want to manage it at home? The truth is, many people handle this condition themselves, especially if it’s mild. You may be asking yourself, though, “What should I eat when I have diarrhea?”
At Schaumburg Immediate Care, we offer primary and urgent care for people dealing with a wide range of conditions. We’ll also be happy to give you the 4-1-1 on diarrhea and how to manage it, starting with what you should and shouldn’t eat.
Why diarrhea happens
Many factors can cause diarrhea, from contaminated food to doctor-prescribed medications to food sensitivities. Myriad illnesses can create diarrhea as a side effect, some of which, like IBS, are directly affected by the way the gut works, while others indirectly cause this issue.
Whatever the case, diarrhea can occur for a short period, for an extended period, or intermittently. If you’re used to the issue, it may simply be something you live with, but it can be dangerous. Diarrhea can dehydrate you, especially if it goes on untreated for an extended period of time. It can also decrease your natural immunity.
As such, eating certain foods can help manage the condition safely and help you monitor yourself to determine whether you should see your provider.
What to eat when you have diarrhea
Consider making these tweaks to your diet when you notice your body leaning toward diarrhea.
- Drink lots of water. Because diarrhea can cause dehydration, you’ll want to replenish your fluids consistently.
- Eat bread products made with white flour. This can thicken your stool.
- Eat plenty of vegetables, but try to eat them cooked and without their skins. This will still provide the nutrients you need while helping you avoid consuming too much fiber.
- Baking or broiling your meat is also a great way to get the protein you need without consuming undercooked meat, which could worsen the situation.
- Try plainer foods like crackers, toast, white rice, and other options that don’t have a lot of spice or sugar.
- Consider also eating soft foods like applesauce, bananas, or oatmeal. These will help your body feel full comfortably and won’t shock your system.
What not to eat when you have diarrhea
If you notice you have diarrhea, take a break from these items.
- Dairy — Dairy can cause or worsen diarrhea, even if you aren’t lactose intolerant.
- Alcohol — Alcohol is a diuretic, and it can make you more dehydrated.
- Coffee, tea, and other caffeinated beverages — The same is true for caffeinated drinks.
- Anything with sorbitol — Sorbitol (a sugar substitute) can cause gas and bloating, which can only make the symptoms of diarrhea worse and more uncomfortable.
- Broccoli, berries, spinach, prunes, and corn — These and other fruits and vegetables can cause gas and bloating, too.
- Fried and fatty foods — These items only increase diarrhea because they’re difficult to digest and irritate the bowels.
Going to the doctor for diarrhea
As previously stated, many people manage their diarrhea at home, but that isn’t always the safest option. If you notice you’ve had diarrhea for more than a week straight, you’re feeling dehydrated, or you’re experiencing symptoms like vomiting in addition to your diarrhea, it’s probably time to seek help. Let us determine why it’s happening and address the issue.
Diarrhea can be dangerous
Make sure you monitor your symptoms closely and that you reach out for help if you need it. Remember, diarrhea can create or be linked to some severe problems, and the last thing you want to do is exacerbate them by ignoring the issue.
Call 847-250-1700 today to make an appointment at our Schaumburg, Illinois, clinic. You can also book online.
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