How to stop loose motion?

Do you feel the need to make frequent trips to the bathroom and have watery stools? Don't worry; you're not alone. Loose motion, also known as diarrhoea, is a common ailment that affects people of all ages. Dealing with loose motion can be an uncomfortable and distressing experience. In this blog, we have enlisted some effective and natural ways to stop loose motion at home. 

What is Loose Motion?

Loose motion is a condition marked by loose watery stools, typically accompanied by an increased urgency to use the bathroom and may be accompanied by abdominal pain, cramps, and nausea. Loose motion also known as Diarrhoea can be acute, lasting for a few days, or chronic, persisting for several weeks, hence it should be given attention at the right time to avoid any complications.
 

What are the Main Causes of Loose Motions?

• Microbial Infections: Bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections can trigger loose motions. Common culprits include E. coli, Salmonella, norovirus, and rotavirus.
• Food Poisoning: Consuming contaminated food or water can lead to loose motions. Contaminants such as bacteria, viruses, and toxins present in spoiled or improperly cooked food can cause gastrointestinal distress.
• Medications: Some medications, such as antibiotics, can disrupt the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, leading to loose motions.
• Food Intolerances: Individuals with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity may experience loose motions after consuming foods containing these substances.
• Digestive Disorders: Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and celiac disease can cause chronic loose motions.

What are the symptoms of loose motion?

How can you tell if you have loose motions? Look out for the following symptoms:

• Frequent Bowel Movements - A sudden increase in the frequency of stools is a common indicator of loose motions. You may find yourself rushing to the bathroom more often than usual.
• Watery Stools - Loose motions typically result in loose and watery stools. The consistency may vary from person to person.
• Abdominal Discomfort - Many individuals experience abdominal pain, cramps, and bloating during loose motions. The severity of these discomforts varies from mild to severe.
• Nausea and Vomiting - It is not uncommon for individuals with loose motions to feel nauseous and experience episodes of vomiting.
• Dehydration - Loss of fluids can lead to symptoms like dizziness and dark urine.

When to Seek Medical Attention?

Though most cases of loose motions can be managed at home, it is crucial to seek medical attention under certain circumstances:

• Prolonged Symptoms - If loose motions persist for more than two days or become severe, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
• Blood in Stools - The presence of blood or mucus in the stools can indicate an underlying condition that requires medical evaluation.
• Fever and Dehydration - If you experience high fever, severe abdominal pain, or signs of dehydration (such as excessive thirst, dry mouth, and decreased urine output), seek immediate medical attention.

Home remedies for loose motion

• Fenugreek Seeds: Boil fenugreek seeds in water and drink the cooled liquid. Fenugreek has antibacterial properties that may help control loose motions.
• Rice Water: Cook rice in more water than usual, strain the rice, and drink the water. Rice water can be soothing to the digestive system and may help in recovering from loose motions.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: In a glass of water, combine one or two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Drink this mixture before meals. The acidity of apple cider vinegar may help regulate digestion.
• Cumin Seeds: Boil cumin seeds in water, strain, and drink the solution. Cumin has antimicrobial properties that may aid in reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.
• Banana and Tamarind Drink: Mash a ripe banana and mix it with a small amount of tamarind pulp. Add some water and a pinch of salt. This mixture can help replenish electrolytes.
• Chamomile Tea: Chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. It may help reduce cramps and promote relaxation in the digestive system.
• Peppermint: Peppermint has calming effects on the digestive tract. Drink peppermint tea or chew on fresh mint leaves to ease abdominal discomfort.
• Ginger: Because of its anti-inflammatory qualities, ginger may help calm the digestive tract. Try ginger tea or add fresh ginger to warm water with a little honey.
• BRAT Diet: Wondering what’s BRAT? The BRAT is just a diet containing Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast. This diet can help soothe the digestive system and provide easily digestible nutrients. These foods are bland and easy to digest, providing essential nutrients without irritating the digestive system.
• Pomegranate Juice: Fresh pomegranate juice may have astringent properties that can help reduce inflammation in the intestines. Drink freshly squeezed pomegranate juice without added sugars.
• Coriander Seeds: Boil coriander seeds in water, strain, and drink the liquid. Coriander has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Tender Coconut Pulp: Consuming the soft, white pulp of tender coconut can be soothing and provide electrolytes.

How to prevent loose motion?

• Cook Food Thoroughly: Cook your food thoroughly, ensuring that it reaches the appropriate internal temperature. This helps kill any harmful bacteria that might be present, making your food safe for consumption.
• Avoid Raw and Unpasteurized Foods: Raw and unpasteurized foods can harbour bacteria and viruses that can cause loose motion. It is advisable to avoid consuming raw eggs, raw seafood, and unpasteurised dairy products, especially if you are prone to digestive issues.
• Avoid Overuse of Antibiotics: Use antibiotics only as directed by doctors, and adhere to the recommended course of action.
• Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to promote overall health, including digestive health. Exercise can help regulate bowel movements.
• Probiotics: Eat more foods high in probiotics, like yoghurt that has live cultures, to help your body absorb them. The balance of gut bacteria is kept in check with the aid of probiotics.
• Limit Intake of Irritants: Reduce the consumption of foods and beverages that can irritate the digestive system, such as spicy foods, high-fat foods, and artificial sweeteners.
• Safe Water Practices: Consume clean and safe water. If you're in an area with questionable water quality, consider drinking bottled or boiled water. Avoid ice in drinks from unknown sources.

If loose motion persists and does not respond to any of the home remedies, it is advisable to consult a specialist as this could mean that you have a severe infection that calls for the need for proper medical intervention.