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The monsoon turns the weather cold and wet, which increases the risk of infections, becoming one of the most common causes of diarrhoea. Stagnant water, poor sanitation, and contaminated food are perfect breeding grounds for germs that cause digestive illnesses during this season. Recognising the early signs and knowing how to respond in time is crucial to managing diarrhoea effectively. In this blog, we’ll cover the major causes, different types of diarrhoea, and common symptoms. We’ll also talk about why monsoon makes things worse, and what remedies can help at home.
The Department of Internal Medicine at the Manipal Hospitals, Bhubaneshwar, has experienced specialists, advanced equipment, and infrastructure to provide effective treatment and support patients.
Synopsis
What is Diarrhoea?
Diarrhoea is when you pass loose or watery stools more often than usual. Infections, food intolerance, or digestive issues can cause it. Most cases of stomach upsets and diarrhoea resolve on their own, but some can lead to severe dehydration if ignored for many days and need medical attention if symptoms persist/worsen.
Causes of Diarrhoea in Monsoon
The causes of diarrhoea are numerous in the rainy season. Regions with poor drainage and sanitation are more prone to different diseases that cause diarrhoea. The likelihood of contamination rises with water retention, leaking pipes, street flooding from a rainstorm, or overflowing drains. Here are the most common causes during the monsoon season:
1. Contaminated Water
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Drinking water that has been contaminated with sewage due to leakage or flooding
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Using unboiled or unfiltered water to cook or brush teeth
2. Bacterial/Viral Infection
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Infections from bacteria (E. coli and Salmonella) and viruses (norovirus) spread more easily in the monsoon
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Unwashed fruits or raw foods are common culprits
3. Street Food and Improper Storage
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Higher humidity spoils cooked foods faster
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Street vendors may use unsafe ingredients, like unsafe water or unhygienic handling of food
4. Poor Personal Hygiene
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Skipping hand washing before meals or after using the toilet spreads germs
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Any moisture from hands or food preparation surfaces can carry pathogens
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Many people skip washing their hands with soap and water before eating or after using the toilet
5. Pre-existing Gut Conditions
- People with irritable bowel syndrome or food intolerances are more vulnerable to flare-ups during the monsoon
Types of Diarrhoea
There are many types of diarrhoea, with each type having differences in triggers and length of duration:
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Acute Diarrhoea: Lasts for 1 to 2 days, often caused by infections or food poisoning
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Persistent Diarrhoea: Lasts for more than 2 weeks but less than 4, usually linked to gut inflammation
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Chronic Diarrhoea: Continues beyond 4 weeks and may be caused by conditions like IBS/lactose intolerance
Diarrhoea Symptoms
Recognising diarrhoea symptoms early helps prevent complications like dehydration. Common signs include:
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Loose or watery stools that occur more frequently than usual
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Abdominal cramps or pain, often accompanied by urgency
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Nausea or a feeling of unease in the stomach
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Vomiting, especially in cases of viral or foodborne infections
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Bloating or a sensation of fullness in the abdomen
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Fever, which may indicate an infection
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Dehydration signs like dry mouth, dizziness, or reduced urination
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Fatigue or weakness due to fluid and electrolyte loss
Home Remedies for Diarrhoea
Most mild diarrhoea cases can be managed at home if you start treatment early. Since you have already lost fluids and might have an infection, you have to avoid things that worsen the condition. Here’s how to support recovery using safe and effective remedies.
1. Rehydration is Critical
The body loses water and electrolytes rapidly during diarrhoea, which can lead to dehydration. Oral rehydration solution (ORS) is the best option to restore this balance. It contains a mix of salts and glucose to help the absorption of fluids by our guts. Coconut water, clear soups, and plain rice water can also support hydration and should be taken regularly. Caffeinated drinks, sugary sodas, and fruit juices should be avoided as they can irritate the gut.
2. Stick to Gentle Foods
The digestive system needs time to heal, so it’s important to eat foods that are easy to digest. The BRAT diet, which consists of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, is often recommended. But in Indian diets, the ingredients can be swapped for plain khichdi, boiled potatoes, and soft-cooked rice. Avoid fried, spicy, or oily dishes during recovery since they can trigger further irritation.
3. Use Probiotics for Natural Gut Support
Curd and buttermilk are natural probiotics that introduce helpful bacteria into the intestine. Infection causes the gut microbes to fall out of balance. Probiotics aid in restoring microbial balance after infection. In some cases, probiotic supplements may be recommended to reduce the duration of diarrhoea caused by antibiotics.
4. Soothe the Stomach
Hot ginger or chamomile tea can relieve any nausea or discomfort and accompanying stomach cramps. They also have mild anti-inflammatory properties that can contribute to gut healing.
5. Allow the Gut to Rest
Smaller meals taken more often are easier on the gut than larger portions. Eating slowly and allowing time to rest between meals can allow the gut to heal without being stressed. If symptoms worsen or last longer than 48 hours, see a doctor.
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Conclusion
Stomach upset or diarrhoea is common in the monsoon season and can often be relieved by simple home remedies with a few days of good food and rest. However, if the diarrhoea persists beyond 2 days and is accompanied by fever, weakness, and pain, you need medical attention as soon as possible.
If you require timely medical attention and treatment, consult the best Internal Medicine Specialist in Bhubaneshwar at the Manipal Hospitals for timely evaluation and treatment.
FAQ's
The most typical causes of diarrhoea are viral or bacterial infections caused by contaminated food or contaminated water. Pre-existing digestive conditions like irritable bowel syndrome and/or food intolerance can also flare up during the monsoon. Taking an antibiotic can also disrupt gut balance and cause diarrhoea.
Yes, healthy adults are also at risk of diarrhoea when it rains. Anyone with a weak immune system is even more at risk for a stomach infection during the monsoon.
Foods like plain starchy foods, such as boiled rice, toast, bananas, khichdi, etc., are easier on the stomach and help firm stools. Curd (which is high in probiotics) can aid recovery by promoting the regrowth of healthy gut bacteria.
If your diarrhoea lasts for more than 48 hours or if your diarrhoea is accompanied by a high fever, blood in stool, severe cramps, or obvious signs of dehydration like dizziness or dry mouth, you need to be examined. Seeing a doctor at the right time can save your life and prevent complications.
Basic home care, like ORS and less spicy foods, is generally safe. However, herbal remedies should be avoided in young children unless prescribed. If symptoms persist, consult a paediatrician without delay.
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