Diarrhea is a disease that causes sufferers to have frequent bowel movements with watery or watery stools. Diarrhea generally occurs as a result of consuming food and drink contaminated with viruses, bacteria, or parasites.
Diarrhea is a common health problem in Indonesia, especially in infants and children. Based on data from the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia in 2019, the number of diarrhea cases throughout Indonesia was around 7.2 million people.
Diarrhea usually lasts no more than 14 days (acute diarrhea). However, in some cases, diarrhea can continue for more than 14 days (chronic diarrhea).
Generally, diarrhea is harmless and goes away on its own. However, diarrhea that does not improve or worsens can lead to fatal complications, if not treated properly.
It should be noted that diarrhea can also be a symptom of COVID-19. If you or your child has diarrhea, especially if it's accompanied by a fever, headache, or loss of smell, check with your doctor to be sure.
Click the link below so you can be directed to the nearest COVID-19 screening:
- Rapid Test Antibodies
- Antigen Swabs (Rapid Antigen Test)
- PCR
Symptoms and Causes of Diarrhea
Symptoms of diarrhea vary. However, the most common symptoms experienced by people with diarrhea are:
- heartburn
- Watery stools (watery stools) or even blood
- Difficult to hold bowel movements
- Dizziness, weakness, and dry skin
Most diarrhea is caused by a viral or bacterial infection in the large intestine that comes from the food or drink consumed. However, diarrhea that lasts a long time can result from inflammation in the digestive tract.
Diarrhea Treatment and Prevention
The main treatment for diarrhea is to prevent dehydration. Patients can drink electrolyte fluids, to replace body fluids lost due to diarrhea. In addition, consumption of soft foods, probiotic supplements, and antidiarrheal drugs that can be obtained at pharmacies are also recommended to speed up recovery from diarrhea.
In more serious conditions, the doctor will give drugs, such as:
- Antibiotic drug
- Pain reliever
- Drugs that can slow down bowel movements
To prevent diarrhea, it is recommended to always maintain personal and food hygiene, for example by washing fruits and vegetables, not consuming food or drinking water that has not been cooked until cooked, and diligently washing hands.