讀後心得

Recently, the number of patients visiting for diarrhea has surged across the country, and many people hold misconceptions about handling diarrhea. Dr. Chen Zhidian from Taichung Veterans General Hospital's Department of Colorectal Surgery clarifies five major myths to help the public properly respond to diarrhea. First, diarrhea is not simply a way to "detoxify." If it persists for more than 48 hours or if symptoms such as fever or blood in stool appear, one should seek medical attention immediately. Second, fasting is not beneficial for intestinal recovery; it is advisable to consume light and easily digestible foods in moderation. Furthermore, while sports drinks can replenish electrolytes, excessive sugar content may worsen diarrhea, so other rehydration solutions should be considered. In addition, self-medicating with anti-diarrheal medications may prolong infection and worsen the condition, increasing risks. Lastly, during diarrhea, it is advisable to avoid dairy products to prevent lactose intolerance, which can lead to worsening symptoms.

Recently, the number of nationwide diarrhea cases is still relatively high. It is often heard that one should refrain from eating when experiencing diarrhea symptoms, otherwise, diarrhea will worsen. Some people believe that diarrhea is a detoxification process that doesn't require treatment or that they can take anti-diarrheal medication on their own. In response, colorectal specialists point out that certain seemingly "correct" approaches may actually aggravate diarrhea symptoms. Here are five major misconceptions to help everyone properly address diarrhea issues.

• Myth 1: Diarrhea is "detoxification" and doesn't require treatment?

  Some people think that diarrhea is a process of detoxification and that the body should naturally eliminate the substances causing it. Doctors indicate that persistent diarrhea can not only damage the gastrointestinal tract but also lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, potentially affecting cardiovascular and kidney functions. If diarrhea lasts more than 48 hours or is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, blood in stools, or severe abdominal pain, one should seek medical attention immediately.

• Myth 2: Fasting to give the gastrointestinal tract a break?

  Many people are afraid to eat during diarrhea, worried that "the more you eat, the more you will have diarrhea," but in fact, long periods of fasting can delay intestinal recovery. Appropriate eating and replenishing nutrients and fluids can accelerate recovery. It is advisable to avoid greasy, spicy, and dairy foods, and choose bland and easily digestible foods such as white rice, congee, white toast, or apple sauce to help repair the gastrointestinal tract.

• Myth 3: Drinking sports drinks for hydration?

  While sports drinks can replenish electrolytes, they often contain high levels of sugar, which may actually increase intestinal osmotic pressure and worsen diarrhea. Doctors recommend opting for electrolyte-replenishing solutions or rice soup and avoiding sugary sports drinks.

• Myth 4: Self-medicating with anti-diarrheal drugs to relieve symptoms?

  Many people buy anti-diarrheal medication on their own when they experience diarrhea symptoms, hoping to stop diarrhea quickly. However, this practice may pose greater health risks. Especially when diarrhea is caused by bacterial gastroenteritis or food poisoning, anti-diarrheal medications can suppress normal intestinal motility, potentially extending the duration of the infection and even worsening the condition.

• Myth 5: Drinking milk helps repair the gastrointestinal tract?

  Some believe that drinking milk can replenish nutrients and help repair the gastrointestinal tract, but dairy products may cause "temporary lactose intolerance," exacerbating bloating and diarrhea. After diarrhea, the activity of intestinal lactase decreases, making it ineffective at breaking down lactose. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid dairy products and gradually reintroduce them only after diarrhea symptoms have completely resolved.

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