Home Remedies to Stop Loose Motion

Overview

Loose motion also commonly referred to as diarrhoea is a condition that everyone’s been there at some point! Loose motion is characterised by a condition where the stool is watery and loose. 

According to the World Health Organization, 1.7 to 5 billion diarrhoea cases occur annually. Loose motion is a mild condition that usually goes away in a few days, however if the symptoms persist for long, consulting a doctor is recommended. Loose motion/diarrhoea is very common among people of all ages. 

What is Loose Motion/Diarrhoea? 

Loose motion refers to frequent, watery stools. Common causes behind this condition include, infection, food poisoning, certain medications, dietary issues, stress (relaxation techniques to reduce stress), and more. Loose motion is a word that is widely used in South Asian Countries to describe diarrhoea. Loose motion is a symptom rather than a disease and occurs when the intestine fails to absorb enough water from food resulting in frequent, watery stool. 

Types of Loose Motion/Diarrhoea

Acute Loose Motion/Diarrhoea: This type of loose motion/diarrhoea is the most common. Acute loose motion is a condition with loose, watery stool that lasts for 1 – 2 days and gets better without a need for treatment.

Persistent Loose Motion/Diarrhoea: This type of loose motion/diarrhoea lasts for 2 – 4 weeks.

Chronic Loose Motion/Diarrhoea: Chronic loose motion/diarrhoea lasts for more than 4 weeks and may indicate a more serious condition. 

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Causes of Loose Motion/Diarrhoea

There can be several causes of loose motion, the most common being a virus that infects the gut. Other common causes of loose motion/diarrhoea include: 

Infection

Viruses, bacteria, and parasites can all cause infection leading to loose motion. Norovirus is more commonly known to cause loose motion in adults while rotavirus causes diarrhoea in children. 

Food Poisoning

Food poisoning is another major factor that leads to loose motion. Food poisoning can occur due to consumption of contaminated food or water that leads to ingestion of harmful pathogens resulting in loose motion.

Certain Medications

Loose motion can also be the result of medications like antibiotics, antacids, cancer drugs and more. Using excessive laxatives can also lead to loose motion.

Trigger Food

Foods that upset the stomach can also lead to loose motion. Some people have trouble digesting fructose which can cause loose motion, similarly, some people are lactose intolerant which causes the body to struggle with lactose digestion.

Medical Condition Affecting the Bowel

Diseases like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and IBS (Irritable Bowl Syndrome) can cause irritation and inflammation in the bowel and can lead to loose motion/diarrhoea. 

Symptoms of Loose Motion/Diarrhoea

Frequently Watery Stools: The most common symptom of loose motion is the frequent passing of loose or liquid stool. 

Abdominal Cramps: Loose motion can sometimes cause abdominal cramps like pain or discomfort in the stomach.

Urgent Bowel Movements: Another common sign of loose motion is the urgency to use the toilet.

Dehydration: Loose motion often causes dehydration due to loss of fluids. It can cause dry mouth, dizziness, weakness, or extreme thirst. 

Fever: Fever during loose motion signals a severe condition and may require medical intervention. Fever is usually caused in cases where loose motion is caused by infection. 

Blood or Mucus in the Stool: Blood or mucus during loose motion indicates a serious condition like infection or inflammatory bowel disease, etc.

Home Remedies for Loose Motion/Diarrhoea

Home remedies and lifestyle changes often help get rid of acute loose motion. Some of the most effective home remedies for loose motion include: 

Drink Plenty of Fluids: Loose motion can lead to dehydration in the body, thus drinking plenty of fluids helps keep the body hydrated. Additionally, caffeinated drinks should be avoided as they can worsen dehydration.

BRAT Diet: Stick to a BRAT diet (Banana, rice, applesauce, toast). Bland food is easy on the stomach and can help firm up the stool. 

Ginger Tea: Ginger is high in anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties. Consuming ginger tea can help soothe an upset stomach.

Probiotics: Probiotics can help restore the healthy balance of gut bacteria. Yogurt, probiotic supplements can help ease the symptoms. 

Chamomile Tea: Chamomile tea has calming effects on the digestive system. Chamomile tea is high in antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties that helps calm the digestive system. 

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How to Prevent Loose Motion/Diarrhoea

To prevent loose motion, focusing on maintaining hygiene, eating a balanced diet, and maintaining hydration is the key. Additionally, avoiding triggering foods and drinks helps prevent loose motion/diarrhoea.

Wash Hands Thoroughly: Washing the hands with soap and water especially before eating or after using the restroom helps avoid contact with bacteria, viruses that can lead to loose motion.

Avoid Raw or Uncooked Food: Refrain from consumption of raw, uncooked food, especially meats and seafoods. Also cook food properly to kill bacteria and viruses. 

Drink Clean Water: Drink clean purified water or boiled water to avoid bacteria, viruses, or parasites that may disrupt the digestive system.

Consume Probiotics: Consuming yoghurt and other probiotic supplements can help maintain gut health and avoid loose motion.

Avoid Trigger Foods: Avoid eating spicy, greasy, or overly rich foods as they can irritate the stomach and result in loose motion. 

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Foods to Eat During Loose Motion

FAQs

How to stop loose motion instantly?

To stop loose motion instantly focus on consuming more fluids, switch to BRAT diet, drink ginger tea, and consume probiotics to support gut health. 

Is loose motion a symptom of pregnancy?

No, loose motion is not a specific symptom of pregnancy.

Which juice is good for loose motion?

Pomegranate juice, lemon juice, coconut water, etc. can help manage loose motion. 

How long do loose motions last?

Loose motion can last from a few hours to a few days. If it persists longer it may signal a severe condition. 

Is loose motion a symptom of dengue?

Yes, loose motion can be a symptom of dengue fever.

Can loose motion cause fever?

Yes, loose motion can sometimes be accompanied by fever. 

Can loose motion cause weight loss?

Yes, frequent loose motion can lead to temporary weight loss. 

Is it normal to have loose motion during periods?

Yes, it is normal to have loose motion during periods. 

Is loose motion a sign of labour?

Yes, loose motion can be a sign of approaching labour.

Is loose motion and diarrhoea the same?

Yes, loose motion is also referred to as diarrhoea.