General information, not a diagnosis Method and limitations

FolderUnderstanding and preventing

Diarrhoea and dehydration: identifying the risk

Diarrhoea may have several causes. The first issue is to monitor water loss, drinking capacity and general condition, rather than looking for a microbe yourself.

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EssentialShort answer

To be retained

The starting points

Monitor the ability to drink and urine. Signs of dehydration, alteration of general condition or impossibility of drinking require prompt medical assistance. Fragility and age change the degree of urgency.

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01Reference

Monitor what changes the decision

These benchmarks do not identify the cause.

Losses and contributions

Diarrhoea and vomiting can cause losses that the drinks no longer compensate for.

Fragility

Children, the elderly or immunocompromised need special vigilance.

Developments

Blood in stools, persistent symptoms or recent travel should be reported to the doctor.

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Rehydration and limits

An oral rehydration solution is not a treatment of all causes.

Adapted solution

Oral rehydration solutions provide water and electrolytes. Follow the dilution of the package leaflet and the professional opinion.

Urgent care

A person who is very sleepy, confused or unable to drink should be assessed as a matter of urgency.

Medicines

Do not choose an antibiotic or transit slower without checking its indication with a professional.

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Limiting digestive transmissions

Prevention continues at home and during meal preparation.

Hands

Wash hands with soap and water after the toilet and before cooking.

Water and food

Use safe water and avoid contamination between raw and ready-to-eat foods.

Useful information

Note suspicious food or batches and consult recall notices without automatically finding contamination.

QuestionsClarifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all diarrhea contagious?

No. Diarrhoea may have an infectious or other cause. Symptoms are not sufficient to determine the agent or infectiousness.

Does a sweet drink replace a rehydration solution?

The composition of a common beverage is not that of an oral rehydration solution. Ask for advice, especially for a child or a fragile person.

Institutional sources

External sources can evolve. Check their date and instructions for your territory.