Diarrhea is a common condition experienced by many people. Diarrhea is usually caused by Escherichia coli ( E.coli ) bacteria. Although often considered a minor annoyance, diarrhea can be a sign of a more serious health problem and requires medical attention. Diarrhea is characterized by the continuous release of stools that are soft, slimy or watery in texture.
There are two types of diarrhea that can occur, namely acute or chronic (persistent). Acute diarrhea is the type that lasts for a short time. This is a common health problem. This condition also usually lasts about a day or two, but can also take longer. Diarrhea that lasts more than a few days is a sign of a more serious problem. The chronic type that lasts at least four weeks can be a symptom of chronic disease. Chronic symptoms can last continuously or come and go.
In general, diarrhea can go away on its own with simple treatment at home. However, it is not impossible that diarrhea can cause complications, especially if left untreated or not treated in the right way. What are the effects of complications on the body?
Serious Impact of Diarrhea Complications
- Severe Dehydration
Dehydration is a condition that occurs when the body loses too much fluid compared to what it takes in. Diarrhea is a common cause of dehydration due to fluid loss through frequent, loose stools. At a severe level, dehydration can cause decreased blood volume, low blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, confusion, and fatigue. In babies, children, and the elderly, dehydration can be very serious and life-threatening. - Electrolyte Disorders
Apart from fluid loss, diarrhea can also cause loss of important electrolytes such as sodium, potassium and chloride. This electrolyte imbalance can interfere with normal body function and cause various health problems, including heart problems, seizures, and even death. - Intestinal Damage and Absorption Disorders
Prolonged or severe diarrhea can cause damage to the intestinal lining and interfere with the body's ability to absorb nutrients from food. This can result in malnutrition, weight loss, and long-term health problems such as decreased immunity, impaired growth, and digestive problems. - Additional Risk of Infection
Diarrhea can weaken the immune system, increase the risk of additional infections, and make it more difficult to treat existing illnesses. For example, diarrhea caused by certain bacteria can lead to urinary tract infections or other infections, which require additional treatment and can prolong the recovery period. - Inability to Cope with Underlying Illness
Individuals with poor health conditions, such as those suffering from HIV/AIDS or autoimmune diseases, are vulnerable to the serious effects of diarrhea. Diarrhea can cause a deterioration in overall health and interfere with treating underlying illnesses, making the healing process more difficult and lengthening recovery time. - Death
In severe cases, especially in developing countries where access to medical care may be limited, diarrhea complications can lead to death, especially in children and the elderly who are vulnerable to dehydration and other complications.
Given the serious impact that diarrhea complications can have, it is important for each individual to recognize worrying symptoms and immediately seek medical help if necessary. Preventive measures such as maintaining personal hygiene and consuming clean water are also very important to reduce the risk of developing diarrhea and its complications. With a deeper understanding of the dangers of diarrhea complications, we can take steps together to protect our health and that of our loved ones.
Article written by dr. Steffie Simpinano Solin, M.Ked(PD), Sp.PD (Specialist in Internal Medicine at EMC Cibitung Hospital).