Medical experts have advised households, individuals, and institutions to effectively practice better health care to reduce the diverse effects of diarrhea.
Smelly, watery diarrhea, a common ailment, can stem from a wide range of causes, both infectious and non-infectious.
According to Sister Maria Kharono, a health tutor at Master Ecclesiae School of Nursing and Midwifery in Kasana Luwero, during an interview with Nexus media on March 24, 2025, she says this condition, while often temporary, warrants careful attention and, in some cases, professional medical intervention.
“Diarrhea, characterized by loose, frequent, and often foul-smelling stools, can significantly disrupt daily life; understanding its potential causes is crucial for effective management and prevention,” Kharono explains.
According to the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), diarrhea is a leading cause of childhood morbidity and mortality, with a national prevalence of 20% among children under 5 years, and Northern Uganda reporting the highest rates.
Sr Kharono highlights that several infectious agents can trigger diarrhea, including bacterial infections like Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter, and Shigella, which are frequent culprits.
Similarly, viral infections such as Norovirus, Rotavirus, and Adenovirus, as well as parasitic infections like Giardiasis, Cryptosporidiosis, and Amoebiasis, can lead to this condition.
Beyond infections, Sr Kharono mentions that non-infectious factors also cause devastating loose motions.
“Food poisoning from contaminated food, food intolerances like lactose or gluten intolerance, and certain medications, including antibiotics and laxatives, can induce diarrhea,” she notes.
Furthermore, underlying medical conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and gastrointestinal motility disorders can contribute.
Treatment and Management
Sr Kharono emphasizes the importance of proper treatment in case one is faced with this predicament.
“Fluid replacement is paramount to prevent dehydration. Patients should consume plenty of fluids, including water, clear broths, and electrolyte-rich beverages like coconut water or sports drinks,” she advises.
Joan Kyomugisha, a businesswoman and mother of five from Seeta, says that diarrhea can be very uncomfortable, especially if one is away from home, since it requires frequent visits to the toilet and proper hygiene to avoid further infections.
“When I get a running stomach or any of my family members do, I always prefer that one is within the confines of home, as its frequent visits to the toilet require maximum cleanness,” Kyomugisha shares.
She notes that millet porridge is a must-have during episodes of diarrhea, as the nutrients found in it help in rejuvenating the lost water in the body.
Sister Kharono adds that rest is also crucial for recovery. A bland diet, such as the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast), can help ease symptoms.
“Anti-diarrheal medications like Loperamide (Imodium) or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) can slow down bowel movements. Probiotics may help restore gut bacteria balance, and antibiotics may be necessary for bacterial infections,” she adds.
When to Seek Medical Help
Sr Mary Kharono cautions that certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention.
“Severe diarrhea lasting more than three days, accompanied by severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or fever, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional,” she warns.
Additionally, signs of dehydration, such as excessive thirst, dark urine, dizziness, or decreased urine output, as well as blood in the stool, are also critical.
“Individuals with weakened immune systems or underlying medical conditions should also seek prompt medical care,” she adds.
Sr Kharono however cautions that it is always best to consult a healthcare provider if one is unsure about the cause or severity of their symptoms, as early intervention can prevent complications and ensure a faster recovery.
