There might be nothing worse than having an upset stomach and diarrhea. It can be incredibly uncomfortable and can sometimes even be dangerous. If you are dealing with such an ailment and diarrhea, there are a few things you can do to try to ease your symptoms.
If you have an upset stomach and diarrhea, the best thing to do is to visit an urgent care center. At this facility, you will be able to receive treatment for your symptoms and also get advice on how to prevent them from getting worse. However, if you cannot visit a medical facility, there are home remedies that you can try.
Liquid Diet
Limiting your diet to clear liquids in small amounts is essential as soon as you start feeling stomach cramps. It will help prevent dehydration and allow your digestive system to rest.
Clear liquids include water, broth, and unsweetened juices. You should avoid caffeine, alcohol, and anything else irritating your stomach. Sip these fluids slowly throughout the day, and drink extra, mainly if your stomach cramps include diarrhea.
If you cannot keep liquids down and begin to vomit, it is vital to sip water or suck on ice chips. Doing this will help keep you hydrated and prevent you from dehydrating. Dehydration can be extremely dangerous, so it is important to drink small amounts of fluid often.
If you do not start feeling better after a day or two of this diet, you must visit an urgent care center. Stomach cramps can signify a more severe problem, and only a professional can give you the diagnosis and treatment you need.
Electrolytes
While drinking water effectively replaces fluids, it does not contain the salts and electrolytes essential for your body’s function. When you sweat, you lose water and these essential minerals. That is why it is vital to replace both water and electrolytes when you have diarrhea.
Electrolytes are minerals in your blood, urine, and other body fluids that carry an electric charge. They are essential for many processes in the body, including muscle contraction, nerve function, and hydration. The main electrolytes are sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate. You get them from the foods you eat and the fluids you drink.
When you have diarrhea, you lose water and electrolytes. It can lead to dehydration, making you feel weak, tired, and lightheaded.
Replacing fluids is essential, but more is needed. You also need to replace the electrolytes you have lost. The best way to do this is to drink liquids that contain electrolytes, such as sports drinks or coconut water.
Solid Food
Once you can keep all liquids down, try some solid foods and fluids. It will help you to start feeling better and get your strength back. Try to eat small meals and snacks throughout the day instead of large meals. It will help your stomach to digest food more efficiently. Some good foods to eat when you are feeling better include:
- White Toast
- Soda Crackers
- White Rice
- Bananas
If you still feel nauseous after eating solid foods, try eating more frequently but in smaller amounts. You can also try eating slowly and chewing your food thoroughly. If certain foods make you feel worse, avoid them for now and gradually reintroduce them into your diet later on.
Conclusion
If you have tried lifestyle changes and home remedies for an upset stomach and diarrhea without success, you should visit an urgent care center. At this facility, the staff can help you determine the cause of your symptoms and provide you with the appropriate treatment.
If you still do not feel well, you should visit the premier urgent care center in Chelsea, AL, which is no other than Southern Immediate Care. Our staff is trained to properly take care of you so you can return to your healthy self. So, schedule an appointment now!
