Very loose or liquid stools are caused by irritation of the lining of the stomach and intestines.
Self-Care Measures:
- Drink eight to ten glasses of fluid (water, Gatorade®, Pedialyte®, or fluids containing electrolytes) daily; this will decrease your chances of becoming dehydrated.
- Eliminate milk and milk products from your diet and minimize fresh fruits and vegetables while diarrhea persists.
- Follow a BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, noncaffeinated tea, or white toast) for a maximum of two days.
- Ask your doctor or nurse about nonprescription medication (Kaopectate®, Imodium AD®).
- Keep rectal area clean and dry; this will help decrease skin irritation. Do not use rectal suppositories.
- Applying a warm cloth to the abdominal area may alleviate cramping.
Things to Avoid:
- Foods that contain fiber and are known to be gassy, (e.g., cabbage, beans, bran, fruits, nuts).
- Foods and drinks that contain caffeine as an ingredient such as coffee, tea and colas (may stimulate the bowel).
- Milk and milk products.
Contact your physician or nurse if you have:
- Three or more loose, watery stools in one day.
- Diarrhea after a maximum of two days on the BRAT diet.
