What Causes Loose Motion, and How Can It Be Treated Quickly?

Question

I have been dealing with loose motion (diarrhea) over the past few days, and while I have been staying hydrated, I want to understand what causes it and how to treat it quickly. Some people say that spicy foods and infections are common causes, but I am unsure whether stress or gut imbalances could also trigger loose stools.

Loose motion can be caused by food poisoning, infections, IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), lactose intolerance, or digestive issues. Many doctors recommend staying hydrated with electrolyte solutions, eating a BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast), and taking probiotics. Some people also use Ayurvedic remedies like pomegranate peel powder, bael fruit, or buttermilk with cumin to soothe digestion. However, I want to know whether chronic loose motion could indicate an underlying gut disorder like colitis or Crohn’s disease.

For those who have had persistent loose motion, what treatments worked best for quick relief and restoring gut health?

Would love insights into the best ways to stop diarrhea naturally and whether medical attention is needed for prolonged symptoms.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

Loose motion (diarrhea) can be triggered by a variety of factors, including infections, food poisoning, stress, gut imbalances, and certain food intolerances like lactose. Spicy foods or high-fat meals can also irritate the digestive system and lead to loose stools. If the diarrhea is short-term and resolves within a few days, it’s typically due to a mild infection or digestive upset. For quick relief, staying hydrated with water, clear broths, or oral rehydration solutions (ORS) is key, along with following a bland diet like the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast). Probiotics can help restore the balance of good bacteria in the gut. Ayurvedic remedies like pomegranate peel powder, bael fruit, or buttermilk with cumin are known for their digestive-soothing properties and can aid in calming the intestines. However, if diarrhea persists for more than a few days, or is accompanied by symptoms like weight loss, blood in stools, or severe abdominal pain, it could indicate a more serious condition like IBS, colitis, or Crohn’s disease, and medical attention should be sought. In such cases, a doctor may recommend further testing and a tailored treatment plan, which could include anti-inflammatory medications or dietary changes. To prevent future occurrences, managing stress, avoiding irritants, and maintaining gut health through a balanced diet and regular probiotics can be helpful.

What Causes Loose Motion, and How Can It Be Treated Quickly? - #14461

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