讀後心得

Recently, the number of diarrhea patients nationwide remains high, but there are many misconceptions about how to handle diarrhea. Dr. Chen Zhidian from Taichung Veterans General Hospital's Department of Colorectal Surgery reminds us that diarrhea is not merely a "detoxification" process, and one should seek medical attention in a timely manner to prevent severe dehydration and intestinal damage. Prolonged fasting can delay intestinal repair, so it is advisable to consume a moderate amount of light and easily digestible foods. While sports drinks can replenish electrolytes, their high sugar content may exacerbate diarrhea. Self-medicating with anti-diarrheal medications carries significant risks and may prolong the infection. Dairy products may cause "temporary lactose intolerance," so they should be avoided.

In recent times, the number of people seeking treatment for diarrhea nationwide remains high. There is a common belief that one should fast when experiencing diarrhea, as otherwise, it may worsen symptoms. Some also believe that diarrhea is a detoxification process that does not require treatment, or that one can simply take anti-diarrheal medication on their own. In response to these misconceptions, experts point out that some seemingly "correct" methods of handling diarrhea may actually worsen the condition. Here are five common misconceptions to help everyone better cope with diarrhea issues.

• Myth 1: Diarrhea is "detoxification" and does not require treatment?
  Some people believe that diarrhea is the body's way of self-eliminating harmful substances. However, experts emphasize that persistent diarrhea can damage the gastrointestinal tract and may even lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, affecting heart and kidney function. If diarrhea lasts more than 48 hours or is accompanied by fever, blood in the stool, or severe abdominal pain, medical attention should be sought immediately.

• Myth 2: Should one fast to rest the gastrointestinal tract?
  Many believe that complete fasting is necessary during diarrhea to allow the gastrointestinal tract to rest, but this can actually delay intestinal recovery. Proper eating and replenishing nutrition and fluids can help in recovery. It is advisable to avoid oily, spicy, and dairy products, and to choose light, easily digestible foods such as plain rice, porridge, white toast, or applesauce to aid in gastrointestinal recovery.

• Myth 3: Should one drink sports drinks for hydration?
  Although sports drinks can replenish electrolytes, many on the market contain high sugar content, which can increase osmotic pressure in the intestines and worsen diarrhea. It is recommended to choose electrolyte solutions or rice water, and to avoid high-sugar sports drinks.

• Myth 4: Should one take anti-diarrheal medication on their own?
  Many people proactively take anti-diarrheal medication when experiencing diarrhea, but this may pose risks! If diarrhea is caused by bacterial gastroenteritis or food poisoning, anti-diarrheal medications may suppress normal intestinal peristalsis, preventing pathogens from being expelled, which could prolong the infection and worsen the condition.

• Myth 5: Should one drink milk to help the gastrointestinal tract recover?
  Some individuals drink milk to replenish nutrients; however, dairy products may trigger "temporary lactose intolerance," worsening diarrhea. The activity of intestinal lactase may decrease after diarrhea, making it ineffective in breaking down lactose. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid milk, yogurt, and other dairy products during the diarrhea period and gradually reintroduce them after symptoms improve.