You are likely to be losing a lot of liquid and minerals such as sodium and potassium from your body, so it is important to drink plenty of fluids and consider special rehydration drinks such as Dioralyte . You may also experience weight loss, because loss of appetite means that you are not eating enough, or because you are not absorbing enough nutrients in your gut. Sometimes you can regain weight simply by eating more. If this fails, see a dietician at your clinic who can recommend food and supplements to increase your nutritional intake without worsening the diarrhoea. Avoiding foods that are high in fat, fibre or lactose content may also help reduce the diarrhoea.
Diarrhoea often leads to soreness around the anus.
Your doctor may be able to suggest soothing medications. Ask your clinic, social services or voluntary organisation if you need help with this. ON NAM also publishes a free monthly newsletter, AIDS Treatment Update .