Thursday, June 11, 2009

Treatment Side-effects: Diarrhea

Diarrhea is one of the most common side-effects of HAART, and has a huge impact on our ability to go about our days. The good news is that this side-effect does respond to treatment and can usually be managed.

Diarrhea is an increase in the water content, frequency, and volume of bowel movements. It can become a serious problem if left untreated, leading to dehydration and nutritional problems. If diarrhea has just become a problem, it may become serious, please check with your doctor if it does not clear up within a few days.

If Diarrhea is a problem, there are various ways of trying to clear it up. Over-the-counter medications such as loperamide (Imodium) may help, or prescription medications will usually do the job as well.

Another way to attack the problem is through your diet. Stay away from coffee and other caffeinated beverages, as well as spicy or fried food. The BRAT diet really helps, it consists of Banana’s, Rice, Apple juice and Toast or tea.

Do you experience many side-effects that are attributed to treatment? How do you manage them? If you have any questions regarding side-effects, please ask and we’ll do our best to answer. Until next week, be well!

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