Diarrhea

Diarrhea is the passage of frequent, loose, watery bowel movements, ether with or without discomfort. If you are troubled by diarrhea, try the following recommendations:

Fluids and Diet

• Increase your fluid intake. It is important to replace lost fluids. Drink 3 quarts of fluids daily from the following: Gatorade, tea, juices, bouillon or gelatin. All these fluids are high in potassium which is lost when you have diarrhea. Drinking fluids will not make diarrhea worse. 
• Change your diet. Eat a low-residue , bland diet that includes bananas, rice, toast, and mild cooked vegetables. Eat frequent small meals. If your diarrhea is severe, restrict your intake to fluids only. 

Medications 

• Ask about medications. Kaopectate or Immodium can help with diarrhea, but check with your care team before starting them unless you have specific instructions to start using them. Some chemotherapy drugs are associated with diarrhea that has to be treated immediately. 

Cleanliness

• Exercise good rectal care. Cleanse the area gently after each bowel movement with mild soap and water then pat dry-do not wipe. Apply A&D ointment, Desitin or another soothing, healing cream. Taking a warm bath can be soothing as well, if you prefer. 

Contact you Doctor

• Tell your doctor if you have more than three loose stools per day, diarrhea accompanied by a fever, diarrhea accompanied by abdominal pain, or diarrhea accompanied by dizziness or blood. 
• Please do not hesitate to contact your doctor if you have questions, concerns or if your diarrhea does not improve.