I am taking antibiotics and have diarrhea. What causes this, and
is there a way to make the effects less troublesome?
Certain antibiotics (clindamycin, ampicillin, cephalosporins)
can cause diarrhea. Antibiotics can alter the balance of bacteria normally found
in the intestines, allowing certain types to flourish. As a result, the colon
might become inflamed.
Antibiotic-associated diarrhea can begin four to 10 days after
taking the antibiotic or after you have stopped the medicine. Discuss this
side effect with your doctor. You might need a change in your prescription.
Should I always take anti-diarrheal medicines when I have
diarrhea?
Most cases of diarrhea are caused by a viral or bacterial
infection in the gastrointestinal tract. Diarrhea is a symptom of this
infection. Your body flushes out the infection by passing loose, watery stool.
As your body quickly loses water, you can become dehydrated. The primary goal of
treatment is to replace vital fluids and salts. Diarrhea often clears on its
own, but you can help the process by following these guidelines:
- Anti-diarrheal medicines can prevent flushing of the organism.
Wait at least a few hours before taking one. Follow package directions
carefully. Do not use anti-diarrheal medicines for more than two days. Consult
your doctor if diarrhea persists or if blood appears.
- Guard against dehydration by drinking at least six, 8-ounce
glasses of fluids per day. Choose pulp-less fruit juices, broths or sodas
(without caffeine), chicken broth (without fat), and tea.
- Avoid eating solid foods. After diarrhea improves, eat bulking
foods such as bananas, white rice, and toast. Avoid high-fiber foods.