Diarrhoea Flashcards
WHO definitions of:
a) diarrhoea
b) acute diarrhoea
c) chronic diarrhoea
a) more than 3 loose stools a day
b) less than 14 days duration
c) greater than 14 days duration
Causes of acute diarrhoea? (4)
Gastroenteritis
Diverticulitis
Antibiotic therapy
Overflow diarrhoea
What does a history of alternating diarrhoea and constipation suggest?
Overflow diarrhoea
Classically LLQ pain, diarrhoea and fever?
Diverticulitis
Causes of chronic diarrhoea? (4)
IBS
IBD (crohn’s and ulcerative colitis)
Colorectal cancer
Coeliac disease
Other conditions which might be associated with diarrhoea? (3)
Thyrotoxicosis
Laxative abuse
Addison’s disease
Causes of bloody diarrhoea?
Gastroenteritis
IBD (mostly UC)
Colorectal cancer
What questions should specifically be asked if gastroenteritis is suspected? (4)
Change in diet
Recent travel
Contact history
Occupation
Management of diarrhoea? (3)
Treatment of the underlying cause
Oral rehydration if possible
Loperamide 2mg PO after each loose stool
Fluid replacement in diarrhoea?
0.9% saline and potassium replacement may be required
Treatment option for resistant/recurrent C difficule infection?
Faecal transplant
