Drinking alcohol every day can lead to various adverse effects on the body, including diarrhea. In today’s article, let’s explore what to do if you experience diarrhea after consuming alcohol.
1. Causes of Diarrhea After Alcohol Consumption
Causes of Diarrhea After Alcohol Consumption
When you drink alcohol, a certain amount of alcohol makes its way to your stomach, where it is absorbed along with nutrients from your food. This absorption process slows down the digestion of alcohol in your body.
Additionally, the alcohol in beer and liquor increases the rate at which your stomach empties, disrupting the normal reabsorption of water and leading to diarrhea after excessive drinking.
2. At-Risk Groups for Diarrhea After Alcohol Consumption
At-Risk Groups for Diarrhea After Alcohol Consumption
Not everyone will experience diarrhea after drinking alcohol. Typically, the following two groups are more prone to diarrhea when consuming alcohol:
- Individuals with Intestinal Disorders: Those with conditions like Celiac disease or irritable bowel syndrome are more susceptible to diarrhea after drinking alcohol due to their sensitive digestive systems.
- Sleep-Deprived Individuals: Sleep deprivation also increases the risk of diarrhea after alcohol consumption, as it sensitizes and impairs the normal functioning of the digestive system.
3. Treating Diarrhea After Alcohol Consumption
Treating Diarrhea After Alcohol Consumption
To prevent diarrhea after excessive drinking, the first step is to stop consuming alcoholic beverages immediately. Refrain from drinking alcohol until your diarrhea subsides. Additionally, the following methods can help improve diarrhea caused by alcohol consumption:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Avoid caffeinated beverages like coffee and tea.
- Consume easily digestible foods such as bananas, rice, and toast.
- Steer clear of greasy and spicy foods that can irritate the digestive system.
- Take anti-diarrheal medications if necessary.
- Consider probiotic supplements to restore beneficial bacteria in your gut.
4. When to Seek Medical Attention
When to Seek Medical Attention
Diarrhea caused by alcohol consumption usually resolves within a few days with proper home care. However, if the condition persists without improvement, it’s advisable to consult a doctor for timely advice and treatment. Here are some signs that indicate you should seek medical attention:
- Diarrhea persists for more than two days without any improvement.
- Difficulty urinating or decreased urine output.
- Infrequent urination.
- Dizziness.
- Fatigue.
- Fever above 39˚C.
- Nausea.
- Blood in the stool.
Diarrhea after excessive alcohol consumption is a warning sign from your body, indicating that you should reduce your alcohol intake to prevent further health complications.
Source: Hellobacsi.com
