Diarrhea: Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Help

Diarrhea

My husband went on a business trip to Dongguan, China, and within less than five days, he developed severe diarrhea that is black and watery.
The local medical resources are poor, and Taiwanese businessmen who fall ill usually rely on others to bring medication from Taiwan.
If he takes "Modial" (I heard it's a type of antidiarrheal medication, but I'm not sure how to spell it), will it be effective? Could it stop the diarrhea while the bacteria are still causing inflammation in his body? Could it be dysentery? What medication should he take?

Xiaomin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/02/13

Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

A well-formed stool that is yellow in color is considered healthy.
However, if diarrhea presents with black watery stools, it indicates that it is likely not a typical gastroenteritis.
Do not take over-the-counter medications; you should seek medical attention promptly.

Reply Date: 2001/02/13

More Info

Diarrhea is a common condition that can arise from various causes, including infections, dietary changes, and underlying health issues. In your husband's case, the symptoms of severe diarrhea, especially if it is characterized by black, watery stools, are concerning and warrant immediate attention.

Causes of Diarrhea
1. Infectious Agents: Diarrhea can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. In your husband's case, given that he is in Dongguan, China, he may have been exposed to contaminated food or water, which is a common cause of traveler's diarrhea. Bacterial infections, such as those caused by *Escherichia coli*, *Salmonella*, or *Shigella*, can lead to severe diarrhea and may present with symptoms like fever, abdominal cramps, and sometimes bloody stools.

2. Dietary Factors: Changes in diet, especially when traveling, can lead to gastrointestinal upset. Consuming unfamiliar foods or beverages, particularly those that are not properly cooked or sanitized, can trigger diarrhea.

3. Medications: Certain medications, including antibiotics, can disrupt the normal gut flora and lead to diarrhea.

Treatments for Diarrhea
1. Rehydration: The most critical step in managing diarrhea is to prevent dehydration. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) containing electrolytes and glucose are recommended. If your husband is unable to keep fluids down, intravenous fluids may be necessary.

2. Antidiarrheal Medications: Medications like loperamide (Imodium) can be effective in reducing the frequency of bowel movements. However, caution is advised, especially if there is a suspicion of a bacterial infection or if the diarrhea is accompanied by fever or blood in the stool. In such cases, using antidiarrheal medications may mask symptoms and prolong the infection.

3. Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is confirmed or highly suspected, antibiotics may be necessary. However, these should be prescribed by a healthcare professional after a proper evaluation.

When to Seek Help
Given the severity of your husband's symptoms (black, watery diarrhea), it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Black stools can indicate the presence of blood, which may suggest a serious condition such as gastrointestinal bleeding. Additionally, if he experiences symptoms such as:
- High fever (over 101°F or 38.3°C)
- Severe abdominal pain
- Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, decreased urine output)
- Persistent diarrhea lasting more than 48 hours
He should seek immediate medical care.

Regarding "摩第拉斯"
It seems you are referring to "Loperamide," which is a common over-the-counter antidiarrheal medication. While it can help reduce the frequency of diarrhea, it is not appropriate if there is a suspicion of a bacterial infection, especially if there are symptoms like fever or blood in the stool. Using it in such cases could potentially worsen the situation by delaying the body's ability to eliminate the infectious agent.

Conclusion
In summary, your husband's condition requires careful evaluation and management. While over-the-counter medications may provide temporary relief, they should not replace professional medical advice, especially in the context of severe symptoms. Encourage him to stay hydrated and seek medical attention promptly to ensure appropriate treatment and prevent complications.

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