Can Diarrhea Result From Using Cold And Flu Medication?

Cold and flu medications can prevent serious flu-related illnesses but can also cause side effects, such as diarrhea. People taking these medications may develop diarrhea and mistake it for their influenza illness, which is actually caused by the medication. Some cold and flu tablets may contain ingredients like pseudoephedrine or diphenhydramine, which can stimulate the digestive system and lead to loose stools. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so it’s important to treat it with plenty of rest.

Diarrhea and a cold can occur simultaneously, and some viruses, such as the influenza (flu) virus, can occasionally cause gastrointestinal symptoms in addition to respiratory symptoms. Children are more likely to develop symptoms like diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting when they are sick with the influenza virus. Common side effects of DayQuil, an over-the-counter medication, include dizziness, nausea, and upset stomach. However, most common side effects are not common.

Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, nervousness, or trouble sleeping may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, contact your doctor or seek medical help. Some cold and flu tablets can cause upset stomach, nausea, or vomiting, especially if taken on an empty stomach.

Using multiple products containing acetaminophen can result in accidental misuse and overuse, as well as potential liver damage. Diarrhea and a cold can occur simultaneously, and some viruses, such as the influenza (flu) virus, can occasionally cause gastrointestinal symptoms.

Nearly all medicines may cause diarrhea as a side effect, but the listed medicines are more likely to cause diarrhea. Many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if you experience any of the following signs or symptoms related to a very bad side effect: signs of an allergic reaction, gastrointestinal symptoms, or a fever.

Does diarrhea flush out toxins?

Over-the-Counter. Since diarrhea is your body’s way of getting rid of toxins, it is best to let it run its course. However, you may use over-the-counter antidiarrheal remedies for convenience, including:

• Attapulgite (Kaopectate)
• Loperamide (Imodium)
• Bismuth sub-salicylate (Pepto-Bismol)

DO NOT take bismuth sub-salicylate with the herbs meadowsweet ( Spirea ulmaria ), white willow ( Salix alba ), or wintergreen ( Gaultheria procumbens ).

Can you get diarrhea from cold and flu medicine?

Coinfection occurs when two separate infections occur simultaneously, causing cold symptoms and diarrhea. This can occur due to a compromised immune system or exposure to both pathogens. Certain viruses can cause both respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms, making it more common in children. A weakened immune system can increase susceptibility to infections, leading to a combination of symptoms. Noninfectious causes, such as stress or over-the-counter cold medications, can also cause gastrointestinal upset. Allergies or food sensitivities can also cause symptoms like a runny nose or sore throat. Gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD) can cause symptoms mimicking a cold and gastrointestinal discomfort.

Treatments for cold symptoms and diarrhea depend on the underlying cause. Adequate rest is crucial for recovery, especially when the body is fighting an infection or managing multiple symptoms. Hydration is essential, as diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so drinking plenty of fluids is essential. A balanced, bland diet can help reduce the burden on the digestive system. OTC medications, such as decongestants, antihistamines, and pain relievers, can provide relief for cold symptoms, while loperamide (Imodium) is available for diarrhea. Consultation with a doctor is recommended before taking any medication.

Why can’t you take cold and flu tablets for more than 3 days?

Acetaminophen is primarily processed in the liver. The liver breaks down most of the acetaminophen in a normal dose and eliminates it in the urine. But a small portion of the drug is converted to a byproduct that is toxic to the liver cells. If you take too much acetaminophen — all at once or over a period of several days — this toxic breakdown product can build up and cause damage to the liver.

In addition, there is some evidence that people with dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea, persistent fevers, or underlying liver problems may be at slightly increased risk of liver damage when taking normally safe doses of acetaminophen. The resulting symptoms of right-sided abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and general malaise may be mistaken for a worsening flu-like illness instead of being recognized as warning signs of liver damage.

McNeil Pharmaceuticals, the maker of Tylenol, has disseminated instructions for the safe use of this product since the 1990s. Advertisements and medication labels warn of the dangers of misusing this medication. The recommended maximum daily dose of acetaminophen in adults has decreased from 4, 000 mg (two extra-strength tablets four times daily) to 3, 000 mg (two extra-strength tablets three times daily) since the original preparation became available. (Of note, there are also updated warning instructions on the use of products for children with various amounts of acetaminophen, namely infant drops, children’s liquid suspension, and chewable tablets.) The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has strongly recommended that combination products not contain more than 325mg of acetaminophen per tablet or capsule, and that prescribers not order combination products containing more than 325 mg of acetaminophen.

Is diarrhea the last stage of flu?

Most flu symptoms last between 2 and 5 days. But symptoms can last longer, especially if you have a weakened immune system. Flu-related diarrhea usually goes away along with your other flu symptoms. Sometimes diarrhea resolves earlier than other symptoms.

Is diarrhea the end of a virus?

What causes diarrhea?. There are several things that can cause diarrhea. Most of the time, diarrhea is simply your gut’s way of getting rid of a harmful invader, like a bacteria or virus. However, in some cases, diarrhea is caused by a malfunction of the gut, as is the case with inflammatory bowel disease.

Many viruses can cause diarrhea. One of the more common causes is norovirus. It has also been a symptom of the COVID-19 virus. Another way you can get diarrhea is from food poisoning or after taking antibiotics. With a bacterial infection you will sometimes see blood or mucous in your stool. But the only way to really tell what is causing your diarrhea is through an examination and testing performed by your doctor.

It’s important to keep in mind that diarrhea is very contagious through stool or saliva. So to keep from infecting others, be sure to close the toilet lid before flushing, wash your hands thoroughly, and clean commonly touched surfaces often.

Can cold or flu cause diarrhea?

Experiencing diarrhea and a sore throat at the same time is often a sign of a viral infection. The flu, the common cold, and COVID-19 are among the potential causes.

Individually, a sore throat and diarrhea have hundreds of potential causes. The two symptoms together are often a sign of an infection.

Although less likely, having diarrhea and a sore throat together can also have a noninfectious cause.

Read on to learn more about why you may have these two symptoms.

When not to take cold and flu tablets?

Ask your doctor before use:If you have high blood pressure. If you are taking antidepressants. If you have heart problems. If you are pregnant. If you are taking any other medicines to treat cough and cold.

Phenylephrine may cause sleeplessness in some people.

Keep to recommended dose. If an overdose is taken or suspected, ring the Poisons Information Centre (Australia 131126, New Zealand 0800 764 766) or go to a hospital straight away even if you feel well because of the risk of delayed serious liver damage.

If carton seal is broken or missing or if capsule foil is broken.

Should you take cold and flu tablets on an empty stomach?

Take this medication by mouth with or without food or as directed by your doctor. If stomach upset occurs, it may help to take this medication with food or milk. Drink plenty of fluids when you use this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor. The fluid will help loosen the mucus in your lungs.

If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. If your liquid form is a suspension, shake the bottle well before each dose.

If you are taking extended-release capsules, swallow them whole. Do not crush or chew extended-release capsules or tablets. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Also, do not split extended-release tablets unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so. Swallow the whole or split tablet without crushing or chewing.

What are the side effects of the cold and flu pill?

Common Side Effects of Cold and Flu Medications. Analgesics like ibuprofen can cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, fatigue, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). More serious side effects include black-colored stools or blood in the vomit which is a sign of bleeding in the stomach. Rarely, ibuprofen can cause changes in heart rate or difficulty breathing.

Common side effects of antihistamines include drowsiness, dry mouth, difficulty urinating, and blurred vision. Non-drowsy antihistamines can cause nausea, headache, and dry mouth.

Decongestants can cause side effects like nervousness, irritability, and insomnia. People with uncontrolled high blood pressure and pregnant women should avoid decongestants like pseudoephedrine.

Potential side effects of nasal steroids include stinging or burning in the nose, dry nose, dry throat, unpleasant taste in the mouth, nosebleeds, and itching, redness, or swelling in the nose.

Do cold and flu tablets upset your stomach?

This combination medication is used to temporarily treat symptoms caused by the common cold, flu, allergies, or other breathing illnesses. It includes decongestants to relieve stuffy nose, sinus, and ear congestion symptoms, acetaminophen (APAP) as a pain reliever and fever reducer, and antihistamines to relieve watery eyes, itchy eyes/nose/throat, runny nose, and sneezing. However, it has not been shown to be safe or effective in children younger than 6 years, and some products are not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years. To reduce the risk of serious side effects, follow all dosage directions, avoid making a child sleepy, and consult your doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms. If taking the over-the-counter product, read and follow all directions on the package label. If prescribed by a doctor, take as directed. If taking by mouth, take it with or without food, and drink plenty of fluids to loosen mucus in the lungs.

Does diarrhea mean your sickness is ending?

Diarrhea is one of the least pleasant parts of dealing with a stomach bug. But according to a new Brigham and Women’s Hospital study published in Cell Host and Microbe, it’s a blessing in disguise: You’re essentially pooping out the bacteria that made you sick.

The researchers infected mice with Citrobacter rodentium, which affects them in a similar way to how E. coli affects us. Within two days, they produced proteins called interleukin-22 and claudin-2, which lead to diarrhea. After the mice got the runs, they had fewer pathogens in their bodies, and their illnesses cleared up, according to a press release. Some mice didn’t produce these proteins, and their intestines suffered more injuries, Medical Daily reports. The authors think our bodies produce interleukin-22 and claudin-2 to get bacteria out of our systems and speed up recovery.

So, even though all those trips to the bathroom stink (literally), they’re ultimately helping you become healthy again. In the meantime, though, diarrhea can lead to dehydration, since it causes you to lose both water and electrolytes, according to the Mayo Clinic. To keep yourself hydrated, WebMD recommends drinking a little bit of water at a time and eating mild foods like crackers. Salty and sweet foods in particular can help, according to the Cleveland Clinic, since salt stops you from losing water and sugar lets you absorb salt. If the diarrhea keeps up for 24 hours or more, the Mayo Clinic recommends going to the doctor.