diarrhoea Flashcards
causes of diarrhoea
ulcerative colitis, crohns, colorectal cancer, acute gastroenteritis,virus,bacteria
symptoms of diarrhoea
watery stools, abdominal cramps, flatulence, nausea and vomiting. usually self resolves within 2-4 days
referral criteria
children under 8 or over 60, food poisoning ( fever, rash,vomiting and sever abdominal pain), blood in stools, 4 + days, other medication, recent foreign travel and pregnant
treatment options
patient will need to replace salts , sugars and fluids.this can be done with oral rehydration therapy.
what is oral rehydration therapy?
rice base ort contains rice powder. cool boiled water should be used in those under 1. can be kept in the fridge for 24 hours. infants should be encouraged to have as much as possible. aim for 1, 1 1/2 times more feed volume after each loose motion. adults should aim for 200-400ml after each motion, childrens should be 200ml. should be sipped slowly every 5-10 minutes.
anti diarrhoea agents - loperamide
used after ort to stop diarrhoea. paralyses the gut allowing time for fluid re - absorption. it activates the glucose pump which encourages faster absorption of glucose and sodium preventing watery stools. shouldnt be taken within 24 hours of fever as could paralyse with negative bacteria inside.
restrictions around loperamide
recommended for 12+ as 2mg capsules. two capsules after each loose motion followed by a further capsules. max dose is 12 caps in 24 hours. side effects can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain , dizziness, dry mouth and constipation.
