What Is The BRAT Diet?

When To See A Doctor

Patients should consult a doctor if they have diarrhea that persists for more than forty-eight hours. A doctor's appointment is also necessary if diarrhea is accompanied by a fever of more than 102 degrees Farhenheit or if it occurs in conjunction with rectal pain or rectal bleeding. Individuals should contact a physician immediately if their abdominal pain becomes severe. Since many stomach illnesses can cause dehydration, it is important to be aware of the early warning signs of this issue. Potential warning signs of dehydration may include dry mouth, reduced urine output, dizziness, lightheadedness, and weakness. Patients with these symptoms may need to rehydrate themselves with an oral rehydration solution, and individuals with severe dehydration often need intravenous fluids. Doctors will be able to determine the severity of a patient's dehydration and decide on the most effective treatment. Patients with nausea should contact their primary doctor if their nausea lasts more than two days or if it keeps coming back. If nausea is accompanied by chest pain, abdominal pain, or shortness of breath, patients should go to an urgent care center or the emergency room.

Learn about how fluids play into the BRAT diet next.