When diarrhea occurs frequently, the individual should be evaluated by a physician. A consultation with a registered dietitian or qualified nutritionist who specializes in HIV would also be warranted to address the potential nutritional deficiencies and assist in dietary strategies to manage the diarrhea. Because diarrhea limits the optimal absorption of food and medications, proper management of diarrhea is important. Poor absorption of drugs has the same effect as taking too small a dose which can lead to drug resistance. The actual treatment of diarrhea usually involves dietary and nutritional interventions as well as drugs to treat the symptoms or cause.
Dehydration is a major implication of diarrhea.
When you have diarrhea, be sure to drink lots of liquids to restore fluids immediately. The usual recommendation for fluid intake by a person with HIV disease without diarrhea is 10 to 12 cups per day. This should be increased by three to four cups when you have bouts of diarrhea. In cases of more severe diarrhea, the amount of liquid required to compensate for lost fluids may be greater. Water, watered-down juices and sports drinks are ideal for replenishing lost fluids and electrolytes.