Diarrhoea/Travellers diarrhoea

Question 1

Diarrhoea - symptoms (3)

Answer 1

Runny stools
Stomach discomfort
Sometimes feel sick

Question 2

Diarrhoea - extra questions to ask (4)

Answer 2

Have you eaten anything different recently
Have you been abroad
Does it hurt when you go to the toilet
Is there any blood

Question 3

Diarrhoea - explanation of diagnosis

Answer 3

Common condition where the stomach lining becomes irritated resulting in loose stools

Question 4

Diarrhoea - causes (4)

Answer 4

Most common: virus within community
Virus from travelling
Food - intolerance or greasy
Medicines - antibiotics ad laxatives

Question 5

Diarrhoea - first-line treatment (product, how it works, how to use)

Answer 5

Dioralyte - rehydration and electrolyte replacement to avoid dehydration, dissolve 1 sachet in 200mL water after each loose stool, max 5 a day

Loperamide - reduces the fluid in your stools and slows down your gut movement, 2 capsules immediately then 1 after each loose stool

Question 6

Diarrhoea - lifestyle (8)

Answer 6

Drink plenty of fluids - 2L per day
Avoid irritating foods and drink (fizzy, spicy, rich)
Eat is small amounts, light simple meals
Drink small sips of water if you feel sick
Paracetamol for stomach pain
Stay home for 48 hours
Plenty of rest
Good hygiene (wash hands with hot soapy water)

Question 7

Diarrhoea - when to refer (4)

Answer 7

Dehydration signs
Vomiting - unable to keep fluids down
Other health conditions
14 days or longer