Watery stools can be caused by inflammation, food allergies or infections. Treatment may include fluid replacement, high-fiber and bland foods, and medication to reduce inflammation. Medical attention is needed if symptoms persist or worsen. Travelers can reduce the risk of diarrhea by consuming prepared foods and drinks in clean environments.
Watery stools are bowel movements that are loose and very liquid in nature. There are a number of reasons why people develop loose, loose stools, and while they may resolve on their own in some cases, medical attention may be needed if they persist or if patients develop other symptoms. Treatment may be provided by a general practitioner or gastrointestinal specialist, and for some causes, treatment by another specialist such as an immunologist may be necessary.
In people with watery stools, the colon fails to reabsorb water during the digestive process. As a result, when people use the toilet, their normally solid stools are mixed with a high amount of liquid. It is not uncommon for people to experience intestinal urgency and the need to defecate more often than usual while having loose, loose stools. Also referred to as diarrhea, watery stools are associated with a number of different medical problems.
If the intestinal tract, especially the colon, is inflamed in any way, water absorption will be reduced and the patient may develop watery stools. Reasons for inflammation include food allergies, food intolerances, and infections. Diet can also play a role, and some people may notice that certain foods seem to trigger inflammation, as seen in inflammatory bowel disease.
In some cases, the cause runs its course and the stools firm up on their own. Fluid replacement is recommended to keep patients hydrated by compensating for water loss that occurs through stool. Patients may also benefit from eating high-fiber foods that firm stools and bland foods that reduce irritation and inflammation. If watery stools persist, become bloody, or are associated with symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, altered level of consciousness, and weakness, it may be advisable to see a doctor.
A doctor can review a patient’s medical history, analyze a stool sample for signs of infectious organisms, and perform other diagnostic tests to learn more about why a patient has developed loose, runny stools. Medications to reduce inflammation and protect the intestines may be offered. If the patient is severely dehydrated, liquid infusions may be given to quickly replace the patient’s lost water and make the patient more comfortable.
Watery stools can be a common problem while traveling because people are stressed, eating foods that are new to them, and potentially eating and drinking contaminated food and water. The risk of traveler’s diarrhea can be reduced by consuming prepared foods and drinks in clean environments.
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