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Diarrhea in the elderly can be caused by gastrointestinal disease, medications, foodborne illness, bacterial infections, food intolerances, and immune deficiencies. It can be fatal and is often avoidable through good hygiene, a healthy diet, and safe food handling practices. See a doctor if diarrhea persists.
Some of the more common causes of diarrhea in the elderly include gastrointestinal disease, certain medications, foodborne illness, bacterial infections, food intolerances, and immune deficiencies. Not all older people experience bouts of diarrhea, but many are frustrated with its onset, which can lead to more dangerous health risks if it persists. Many causes are avoidable, and understanding what diarrhea is and what causes it could help reduce the number of cases.
Diarrhea is an abnormal bowel movement, especially a bowel movement that is watery and occurs at frequent intervals, usually more than three times a day. It is often accompanied by stomach pain and discomfort. Other symptoms often occur as well, such as nausea, fever, and even vomiting. When these symptoms occur simultaneously, it is usually caused by an infection and only lasts a few days with proper treatment.
Acute diarrhea, on the other hand, is described as abnormal bowel movements that can last up to two weeks. This could be symptomatic of a more serious illness or allergic response. Diarrhea in the elderly that lasts longer than two weeks is known as persistent diarrhea or even chronic diarrhea if it lasts longer than a month.
Most people think that abnormal bowel movements are frustrating, even if they aren’t threatening, but diarrhea can actually be fatal for elderly sufferers. Not only could the underlying disease cause death, but the fluids and important nutrients lost from frequent, long-lasting bowel movements can also be dangerous. Infectious diarrheal diseases are one of the leading causes of death worldwide, with most of these cases affecting the elderly.
The most common causes of diarrhea in the elderly are also some of the most avoidable. By maintaining good hygiene, keeping the immune system strong through a healthy diet, and avoiding unsafe eating practices, many infections can be avoided. In cases where diarrhea is caused by medications or another underlying disease, you should see a doctor right away.
Preventing the conditions that cause diarrhea is the best way to avoid it. Safe food handling practices should always be followed when preparing meals, including keeping raw meat away from vegetables and other foods, washing hands regularly, and disinfecting cooking utensils and surfaces that have come in contact with meat. raw and dairy products. Frequent hand washing, especially after using the toilet, is also recommended to reduce the occurrence of infectious diseases.
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