DEHYDRATION DUE TO DIARRHEAL DISEASES

DEHYDRATION DUE TO DIARRHEAL DISEASES

Diarrhea is when you pass three or more loose stools in a day. If your diarrhea lasts more than a few days, your body loses too much water and salt. This causes dehydration, which can lead to death. Diarrhea is usually caused by an intestinal virus or bacteria transmitted through contaminated water or food. It’s particularly widespread in developing nations with poor sanitary conditions.

Impact of diarrheal diseases around the world

Diarrheal disease is the second top causeTrusted Source of death in children younger than 5 years. About 760,000 children die from diarrheal diseases each year.

Risk factors and prevention

Risk factors for diarrheal diseases include:

• living in an area with poor sanitary conditions
• no access to clean water
• age, with children being the most likely to experience severe symptoms of diarrheal diseases
• malnourishment
• a weakened immune system

According to UNICEF, the best method of prevention is practicing good hygiene. Good handwashing techniques can reduce the incidence of diarrheal diseases by 40 percent. Improved sanitization and water quality as well as access to early medical intervention can also help prevent diarrheal diseases.