Some of the most common causes of diarrhea in the elderly include gastrointestinal illnesses, certain medications, foodborne illnesses, bacterial infections, food intolerances, and immune deficiencies. Not all older people experience bouts of diarrhoea, but many are frustrated by its occurrence, which can lead to more dangerous health risks if it persists. Many causes can be avoided, and understanding what diarrhea is and what causes it can help reduce the number of cases.
Diarrhea is an abnormal bowel movement, specifically, a bowel movement that is watery and occurs at frequent intervals, usually more than three times a day. It is often accompanied by stomach pain and discomfort. Other symptoms such as nausea, fever, and even vomiting are often experienced as well. When these symptoms occur at the same time, they are usually caused by an infection and only last a few days with proper treatment.
Acute diarrhea, on the other hand, is described as abnormal bowel movements that can last up to two weeks. This could be symptomatic of more serious disease or an allergic response. Diarrhea in the elderly that lasts more than two weeks is known as persistent diarrhea or even chronic diarrhea, if it lasts more than a month.
Most people think of abnormal bowel movements as frustrating, even though they're not threatening, but diarrhea can actually be fatal for older people. Not only can the underlying disease cause death, but the important fluids and nutrients lost through frequent and long-lasting bowel movements can also be dangerous. One of the main causes of death in the world is attributed to infectious diarrheal diseases, and the majority of these cases are in the elderly.
The most common causes of diarrhea in the elderly are also some of the most preventable. By maintaining good hygiene, keeping the immune system strong through a healthy diet, and avoiding unsafe eating practices, many infections can be avoided. In cases where diarrhea is caused by medications or another underlying illness, immediate medical attention should be sought.
Preventing the conditions that cause diarrhea is the best way to avoid it. Safe food handling practices, including keeping raw meat away from vegetables and other foods, washing hands regularly, and sanitizing kitchen utensils and surfaces that have come into contact with raw meat and dairy products, should always be employed when preparing meals. Frequent hand washing, particularly after using the toilet, is also recommended to reduce incidents of infectious disease.