What are the common causes of acute diarrhea?
from web site
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Viral Infections: Many viruses, such as rotavirus and norovirus, can lead to acute diarrhea, particularly in children.
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Bacterial Infections: Bacterial pathogens like Escherichia coli (E. coli), Salmonella, and Campylobacter can cause food poisoning and acute diarrhea when contaminated food or water is consumed.
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Parasitic Infections: Parasites like Giardia and Cryptosporidium can lead to diarrhea when ingested through contaminated water or food.
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Dietary Indiscretion: Consuming spicy, greasy, or spoiled food and overeating can irritate the digestive system and result in diarrhea.
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Medication Side Effects: Some medications, especially antibiotics, can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria and lead to diarrhea as a side effect.
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Traveler's Diarrhea: Traveling to regions with different hygiene standards can expose individuals to unfamiliar pathogens, leading to traveler's diarrhea.
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Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress can affect the gastrointestinal system and result in diarrhea in some individuals.
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Food Allergies: In individuals with food allergies, consumption of allergenic foods can trigger diarrhea as part of an immune response.
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Dietary Intolerances: Intolerances to substances like lactose (lactose intolerance) or fructose can lead to diarrhea when these substances are ingested.
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Ingestion of Toxins: Consumption of foods contaminated with toxins, such as those produced by certain bacteria, can cause acute food poisoning and diarrhea.
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Gastrointestinal Illnesses: Some gastrointestinal conditions, like gastroenteritis, can cause acute diarrhea due to inflammation of the digestive tract.
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Viral Gastroenteritis: Viral gastroenteritis, often referred to as the "stomach flu," can lead to acute diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
It's essential to stay hydrated and seek medical attention if acute diarrhea is severe, persists for more than a few days, is accompanied by other concerning symptoms (such as blood in the stool, high fever, or dehydration), or if there is a suspicion of a more serious underlying condition.
For more information, consult Dr. Vedant Karvir the Best Gastroenterologist in Borivali Practicing at Globus Gastroenterology Hospital.
