Diarrhoea Flashcards
(38 cards)
What is the general definition of diarrhoea
The passage of three or more loose or liquid stools per day
How long does someone have to have diarrhoea for it to be considered as :
. Acute
. Chronic
. Persistent
Acute diarrhoea < 7 days
Chronic >1 month
Persistent > 14 days
State and explain what can cause diarrhoea (3)
- osmotic laxative which causes malabsorption->
Increase in osmotic load in gut lumen
Soluble compounds cannot be absorbed by small intestine, thus draws fluid into gut lumen e.g. - Infections: e.g. E.coli and drug allergies -> increase in secretion
Increased secretion of fluid and electrolytes into intestine with decreased absorption - Infection by shigella (type of bacteria) -> inflamed intestinal lining
Damage to intestinal mucosal cells affects absorption of fluid/electrolytes, results in fluid/blood loss
What is gastroenteritis and what are the symptoms
Inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract (GI) including stomach and intestine. Symptoms include diarrhoea, vomiting and abdominal pain
How can bacterial diarrhoea typically be contracted?
Through contaminated food and drink or as “ travellers diarrhoea “ often caused by E.coli
What are two common viruses that cause diarrhoea?
. Rotavirus - common amongst young children
. Norovirus
What are some non-infective causes of diarrhoea (6)
. Anxiety
. Alcohol
.food allergies
. Coffee
. Sweets- high sorbitol content
. Medications (e.g. laxatives, antibiotics, chemotherapy, magnesium, metformin)
What are some causes of chronic diarrhoea (8)
. IBS
. Diet
. IBD (inflammatory bowel disease)
. Microscopic colitis ( inflammation of the large intestine, causes watery diarrhoea )
. Coeliac disease- immune system attacks your own tissues when you eat gluten
. Malabsorption e.g. lactose intolerance
. Cancer
. Faecal impaction
What are symptoms of diarrhoea (5)
- passing frequent, soft, watery stools
- irritation of stomach lining can also cause stomach cramps
- nausea
- fever
- loss of appetite
When should a patient with diarrhoea be referred?
. Weight loss- could be sign of bowel cancer
. If travelling causes fever AND diarrhoea
. Signs of dehydration, especially amongst elderly and babies
. Blood in stool
.persistent, more than 2 weeks
Why is care important for babies and the elderly when dealing with diarrhoea?
They are at higher risk of dehydration.
When should a baby under 1 year old with diarrhoea be referred to a healthcare provider?
After 24 hours.
When should children aged 1-3 years with diarrhoea be referred to a healthcare provider?
After 48 hours.
When should an adult with diarrhoea be referred to a healthcare provider?
After 72 hours.
When should an elderly person with diarrhoea be referred to a healthcare provider?
After 48 hours.
What dietary advice should be given to those with diarrhoea?
. Small, light meals with plain foods
.avoid fruit or fizzy drinks
. Avoid dairy
. Continue to breastfeed or bottle feed as normal, do not dilute formula milk
What is the first-line treatment for diarrhoea, especially in children?
Oral rehydration therapy.
What does oral rehydration therapy provide?
Glucose and electrolytes.
What is the age restriction for over-the-counter oral rehydration therapy?
It is restricted to those aged 1 year and older.
What is the first choice agent for diarrhoea after Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT)?
Loperamide.
How does Loperamide work to treat diarrhoea?
It slows small and large intestine transit by decreasing bowel motility through action on opioid receptors in the gut.
What are the benefits of Loperamide in treating diarrhoea?
It can increase absorption of fluid and electrolytes, reduce duration, and reduce stool frequency.
At what age is Loperamide recommended for diarrhoea treatment?
Over 12 years.
What are some adverse drug reactions (ADRs) associated with Loperamide?
Constipation and megacolon.
