I often suffer from diarrhoea and have digestive issues. What can I eat to improve digestion?

To improve digestion and reduce diarrhoea, start with a BRAT-like diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast), which is bland and easy to digest. Gradually introduce foods rich in soluble fibre, such as oats, and natural probiotics, like plain yoghurt, to support gut health and regulate bowel movements. Additionally, avoid spicy, fatty, and processed foods, and stay well-hydrated with water or oral rehydration solutions if needed.

I have been experiencing stomach problems for nearly two months, occurring five to six times a day. What should I do?

Since your stomach problems have persisted for nearly two months with frequent episodes, you should consult a doctor or gastroenterologist promptly. The doctor may recommend stool tests, blood tests, or other investigations to identify the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment. Meanwhile, stay well-hydrated, avoid self-medicating, and keep a diary of your symptoms, including timing, stool type, and any potential food triggers.

Are antibiotics effective for severe diarrhoea?

Antibiotics are only effective for severe diarrhoea if it is caused by a bacterial infection, which should be confirmed with a stool test. If the diarrhoea is due to a virus, parasite, or other underlying cause, antibiotics will not help and may even worsen the condition. You should consult your doctor to determine the cause and ensure you stay well-hydrated with oral rehydration salts.

I have been experiencing diarrhoea for the last 15 days. I took Levofloxacin and Ornidazole for five days, along with Rifaximin 400 mg, but my symptoms have returned. What should I do?

The recurrence of severe diarrhoea after multiple antibiotics may indicate an antibiotic-resistant infection or another underlying cause. Stop all self-medication and consult your doctor or a gastroenterologist promptly for stool tests to identify the cause and receive appropriate treatment. Stay well hydrated with oral rehydration salts to prevent dehydration.

I have been experiencing diarrhoea since this morning. What should I do?

For acute diarrhoea, the most important thing is to prevent dehydration by taking oral rehydration salts and consuming clear fluids regularly. Stick to a bland diet, such as toast, bananas, or rice, and avoid fatty, spicy foods, dairy, and caffeine for the time being. Consult your doctor if the diarrhoea lasts more than 48 hours, or if you develop a fever or notice blood in your stool.

I have had diarrhoea since last night. Please suggest a suitable medication.

Since your diarrhoea started only last night, it is likely acute and may resolve on its own. To manage it, drink plenty of water or oral rehydration solution to stay hydrated and eat bland foods. If needed, you may take a single dose of an over-the-counter antidiarrheal medication, such as Loperamide, to reduce stool frequency. Consult a doctor if the diarrhoea worsens, lasts more than two days, or is accompanied by any unusual symptoms.