Cold Diarrhoea: causes, symptoms and treatment

It is quite common and ordinary for people to become sick with cold and Diarrhoea. However, at times, some people can experience these both simultaneously. I am sure this brings about a lot of questions in your mind. Is this normal? Is this an indication of something bad? When should I be worried?

Can colds cause Diarrhoea?

Studies suggest that the virus responsible for contracting cold can be the source of Diarrhoea as well. Nevertheless, Diarrhoea can be a strong indicator of flu instead of a common cold. In some cases, the medications that are being taken to treat colds could result in frequent bowel movements. Medicines that we intake without prescription for cold relief can distress and cause irritation in the digestive system resulting in Diarrhoea.

What causes diarrhoea?

Let’s have a look at the prominent reasons behind loose motions.

• Consuming contaminated water and food introduces us to pathogenic bacteria.
• Infection by Virus
• Intake of dairy products by someone who is lactose intolerant
• Food allergies
• Using Antibiotics kills the good bacteria present in the intestine, thus creating imbalance and further issues.
• Surgeries in the intestine or gall bladder

Symptoms of Diarrhoea?

The most common Diarrhoea symptoms are:

• Stomach feels bloated
• Stools are quite loose and  liquefied
• Experiencing pain or cramps in the abdomen
• Nausea and feeling of vomiting
• Presence of mucus or blood in the stool
• Fever
• Pressing urge for immediate bowel movement
• Weight loss

Treatment of Diarrhoea

When it comes to mild Diarrhoea, hydration is the key. Frequent fluid intake and medication helps in tackling the weakness and gives relief. Oral rehydration solution or ORS is the most effective option for diarrhoea treatment. It averts dehydration as it consists of glucose and salt. Consuming zinc supplements could calm and comfort children during diarrhoea.

Anti-diarrheal medicine for diarrhoea aids in relaxation from the looseness of the bowels. Ensure that you are avoiding eating foods that are not easily digested and give rise to loose motions.

Practising good hygiene like washing hands before eating or making food, hand washing with soap after using the washroom, hygienic sanitation, consuming clean water and creating awareness regarding the causes of diarrhoea are a few preventive measures.

Warning signs to look out for?

If you are stricken with Diarrhoea and are going through weight loss, continuous loose stools, extensive dehydration, black stool, critical cramps and pain in the stomach you should consult a doctor right away. Constant high fever, vomiting, dizziness, and blood in stool are a few more warning signs to watch out for. Delay in seeking professional help could lead to severe complications, thus one must be cautious.

Is cold and Diarrhoea symptoms of Covid?

Cold and Diarrhoea are not very common symptoms of Covid. But in some cases, these turn out to be prominent much before the other symptoms start showing up. If you are experiencing fever and loss of smell and taste after one or two days, this will be your confirmation that you succumb to Covid-19.