Diarrhoea is a common condition that involves frequent, loose, or watery bowel movements, often accompanied by cramping or discomfort. It can range from mild to severe, lasting a few days or leading to dehydration if not managed properly. In India, diarrhoea remains a significant health issue, particularly among children.

According to reports, diarrhoea is responsible for 13% of child deaths, with nearly 1 in 8 children affected annually. Poor sanitation, contaminated water, and lack of hygiene are common contributors.

If diarrhoea persists for more than a couple of days, is accompanied by high fever, dehydration, or blood in the stool, it’s essential to see a doctor for prompt treatment and prevent complications.

Diarrhoea can strike for various reasons, and understanding its possible causes helps in managing it effectively. Here are some common triggers:

1. Infections: Viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections are among the leading causes of diarrhoea. Contaminated food, water, or surfaces can introduce harmful microorganisms like E. coli, Salmonella, or Rotavirus into your system.

2. Food Sensitivities: Certain foods may irritate the digestive tract. Lactose intolerance (inability to digest dairy) and gluten intolerance (Celiac disease) are common triggers that lead to diarrhoea.

3. Medications: Antibiotics, in particular, can disrupt the natural balance of gut bacteria, leading to diarrhoea. Other medications like laxatives or chemotherapy drugs may also cause digestive upset.

4. Digestive Disorders: Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis often feature diarrhoea as a primary symptom. These chronic conditions require long-term management.

5. Poor Sanitation and Hygiene: In developing areas, improper sanitation, unclean drinking water, and inadequate hand hygiene are major contributors to diarrhoea outbreaks.

By identifying the underlying cause, you can take the right steps to treat and prevent future episodes, ensuring your digestive system stays healthy and balanced.

Diarrhoea is more than just frequent trips to the bathroom—it can come with a range of symptoms that affect your overall well-being. Understanding these signs can help you know when it’s time to take action.

1. Frequent, Loose Stools: The hallmark symptom of diarrhoea is passing loose or watery stools multiple times a day. While an occasional bout is common, ongoing diarrhoea lasting more than two days should raise concern.

2. Abdominal Cramping and Discomfort: Many people with diarrhoea experience painful cramping or bloating in the stomach. This discomfort is usually caused by the inflammation or irritation of the digestive tract.

3. Nausea and Vomiting: Diarrhoea often goes hand-in-hand with nausea or vomiting, especially if it’s caused by an infection or food poisoning. These symptoms can also contribute to dehydration, making it important to stay hydrated.

4. Fever: A mild to high fever can accompany diarrhoea, particularly when caused by bacterial or viral infections. A fever combined with diarrhoea should prompt you to consult a healthcare provider.

5. Dehydration: One of the biggest concerns with diarrhoea is dehydration, as the body loses fluids and electrolytes. Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness, and dark-coloured urine.

6. Blood or Mucus in Stools: This can be a sign of a more serious condition like a bacterial infection, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or even a parasitic infection. Blood in the stool is a red flag that should not be ignored.

By recognizing these symptoms early, you can take appropriate steps to manage diarrhoea and prevent more serious complications like dehydration or infection.