They should also avoid uncooked vegetables or fresh salads that may be contaminated with bacteria. Usually diagnosis relies on a person's report of his or her symptoms. If there is severe pain or blood in the stool, a healthcare provider will generally examine the area around the stomach. X-rays may be taken. Occasionally, a scope is used to look inside a portion of the gastrointestinal tract.
Dehydration is common in people with severe diarrhea.
That is why getting plenty of fluids is very important in treating diarrhea. People who have diarrhea should try to keep eating their normal diet. Adults and children should have regular meals three times a day. It is important that infants continue to drink formula or milk. There are oral electrolyte solutions, like Pedialyte, that replace lost minerals in infants with diarrhea.