Diarrhea from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can quickly lead to dehydration.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: A few minutes
Here's How:
- Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.
- Drink fluids slowly by constantly sipping throughout the day.
- Don't drink caffeinated drinks or alcoholic beverages, which can actually have a dehydrating effect.
- When flying in an airplane, drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol.
- Drink water before, during, and after exercise--slowly!
- Call your doctor if you have a temperature over 102 degrees Fahrenheit, or severe cramps.
- Carry a water bottle whenever possible, especially when participating in outdoor activities in warm weather.
- Remember that fluids can be lost through sweat as well as from diarrhea.
Tips:
- Sports drinks can help replenish electrolytes lost from diarrhea.
- Fruit juices can make diarrhea worse, so dilute them with water.
- Urine should be pale yellow or clear in color. If your urine is dark yellow or odorous, take in more fluids.
- Don't hesitate to call a doctor if you are concerned about severe dehydration.
