Dr. Rx: How to avoid — or deal with — diarrhea
VCU School of Pharmacy faculty, alumni and students have provided the Dr. Rx column for Richmond’s Fifty Plus magazine since December 2009. We now share those columns on the SOP website, as well, for those who might not have seen the most recent issue.
Serving as Dr. Rx for March 2015 was Max Stinehour, a fourth-year Pharm.D. student. He earned his bachelor of science degree from Worcester Polytechnic Institute prior to a career as a Naval officer. His pharmacy focus areas are ambulatory care and pharmaceutical industry.
Dear Dr. Rx: I have always been curious but a little afraid to ask … what causes diarrhea and what can I do about it?
Diarrhea is not exactly a common topic of conversation; however, it is an unpleasant occurrence that just about everybody experiences at some point in their lives. Diarrhea is defined as an increased frequency and a decreased consistency (commonly called “loose” or “watery”) of the stool.
Stool frequency and consistency can differ from individual to individual. If you find yourself frequently experiencing diarrhea, there are some preventive measures you can take and ways to ease the discomfort.
The most common medication causes of diarrhea are antibiotics; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Advil (ibuprofen); and medications for heartburn and acid-reflux such as magnesium citrate, Prilosec (omeprazole) and Zantac (ranitidine). If you are taking one or more of these medications and frequently experience diarrhea, talk to your pharmacist or another health-care provider to seek alternative solutions.
Several foods can contribute to diarrhea. For instance, simple carbohydrates such as lactose (a sugar found in milk) are difficult for your body to absorb. A diet low in fiber or high in sugar alcohols, which are found in many “low-carb” foods and candies, can increase your risk for diarrhea. Stay away from sweet liquids, such as juices and sodas, as well as caffeinated drinks, as these can increase the likelihood and severity of diarrhea.
If you experience diarrhea frequently, try increasing the amount of fiber in your diet. For age 51 and older, men should eat 30 grams of fiber per day and women should eat 21 grams. (Bear in mind that while this is a good target to shoot for, too much fiber could result in constipation.) Any changes in your fiber intake should be done gradually to allow your body to adapt.
While bothersome and sometimes embarrassing, diarrhea often resolves on its own within 72 hours. If your symptoms last longer than 72 hours or if your stool contains any pus, mucous or blood, you should see a health-care provider immediately.
If you experience these symptoms often, you should also see a health-care provider to determine if there is an underlying disease. When experiencing diarrhea, you can lose a great deal of water, so it is important to drink plenty of clear liquids such as water, broth or noncaffeinated teas.
Luckily, there are some ways to ease the discomfort of diarrhea if preventive measures do not help. Over-the-counter (OTC) products can help. Immodium A-D (loperamide) works by reducing the amount of water that goes into your intestine and slows down movement through it. Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) also works by reducing the amount of water that goes into your intestine. These products should be used as directed by the package, along with guidance from your pharmacist.
Changing your daily routine to support better health can be challenging; however, maintaining a healthy fiber intake and avoiding foods and beverages that can cause diarrhea are the best ways to avoid getting it. OTC options can help you deal with the symptoms of diarrhea. Your pharmacist or other health-care provider can assist in finding the right option for you.
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