Understanding Cold with Diarrhea
Having a cold is uncomfortable enough on its own, but when it's accompanied by diarrhea, it can make you feel even more miserable. Diarrhea is not a typical symptom of the common cold, so experiencing it along with congestion, coughing, and sneezing may seem puzzling. However, there are some explanations for why these two conditions can occur together.
How Are Colds and Diarrhea Connected?
There are a few possible reasons you may have diarrhea when you have a cold:
- Some cold medications contain ingredients like guaifenesin or antihistamines that can cause loose stools or diarrhea as a side effect.
- The cold virus itself may spread and infect your gastrointestinal tract, leading to diarrhea and abdominal discomfort.
- Having a cold may disrupt your normal diet, causing dietary changes that upset your stomach.
- Cold symptoms like postnasal drip can irritate your digestive system and stimulate bowel movements.
- Stress on your body from fighting a cold virus may cause temporary bowel changes.
In most cases, cold-related diarrhea is mild and will clear up in a day or two as your cold improves. But if it becomes severe or lasts more than two days, contact your doctor.
Treating Cold and Diarrhea
To find relief when you’re dealing with a cold accompanied by diarrhea:
- Drink plenty of water and clear fluids like broth to prevent dehydration.
- Eat bland, gentle foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast.
- Avoid dairy products, greasy food, caffeine, alcohol, and sugary sodas and juices as these can worsen diarrhea.
- Ask your pharmacist about anti-diarrheal medications that are safe to use along with your cold medicine.
- Get extra rest to allow your body to heal.
- Use a cool-mist humidifier to ease congestion and soothe your cough.
Be sure to practice good hygiene like hand washing and sanitizing surfaces to avoid spreading your illness. Call your doctor if diarrhea lasts more than 48 hours or is accompanied by severe pain, bloody stool, fever over 101°F, or signs of dehydration.
When to See a Doctor
In most cases, having diarrhea during or after a cold is not a cause for concern and will resolve on its own within a couple days. But contact your doctor right away if you experience:
- Diarrhea lasting more than 48 hours
- More than 3-4 loose stools per day
- Severe abdominal pain or cramps
- Blood or mucus in stool
- High fever above 101°F
- Signs of dehydration like dizziness, dry mouth, or dark urine
These symptoms could be a sign of a more serious condition like a gastrointestinal infection, inflammatory bowel disease, or side effect of medication requiring medical treatment. It’s better to be safe and have it checked out.
Preventing Colds and Diarrhea
You can lower your chances of developing a cold along with diarrhea by:
- Washing hands frequently with soap and water.
- Avoiding close contact with anyone who has a cold.
- Not sharing food, drinks, utensils with others.
- Disinfecting shared surfaces like doorknobs, keyboards, etc.
- Avoiding touching your face and eyes with unwashed hands.
- Staying home when you’re sick to keep from spreading illness.
- Drinking plenty of fluids and eating fiber to promote good digestion.
- Taking probiotic supplements to support healthy gut bacteria.
Getting an annual flu shot can also lower your risk. And if you do catch a cold, taking medication as directed and resting adequately can help speed recovery and prevent complications like diarrhea.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Most cases of cold-related diarrhea are unpleasant but not dangerous. However in rare instances, severe dehydration from diarrhea and vomiting can become life-threatening. Seek immediate medical care if you experience:
- Little or no urine output for 8 hours or more.
- Rapid heart rate or decrease in blood pressure.
- Fainting or loss of consciousness.
- Confusion, disorientation, or trouble waking up.
- Lethargy, weakness, or problems walking steadily.
These require emergency medical treatment to restore fluids and electrolytes through IV fluids or medications. Don’t hesitate to call 911 or go to the ER if they occur.
Key Takeaways
Having diarrhea during or after a cold can make you feel even more sick and fatigued. In most cases it’s a temporary annoyance that will pass within a couple days. Drink plenty of fluids, rest, and stick to a bland diet until it clears up. But see a doctor promptly for severe, persistent, or bloody diarrhea to rule out serious illness. With some self-care, you can stay hydrated and recover from both the cold and diarrhea.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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