"What Causes Elderly People to Experience Diarrhea with Blood?"

Diarrhea and Blood in Stool in Elderly Individuals

Diarrhea refers to the condition of loose, watery bowel movements. When elderly individuals experience diarrhea accompanied by blood in their stool, it can be attributed to various factors such as improper diet, acute gastroenteritis, bacterial dysentery, gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer, and more. It is crucial to seek medical attention promptly and follow the recommended improvements or treatment measures under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Details are as follows:

1. Improper Diet

Elderly individuals tend to have weaker digestive systems. Consuming overly greasy or spicy food can irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa, leading to bleeding and abdominal pain. This scenario is generally considered normal and may not require treatment. It is advised for the elderly to adjust their dietary habits, opting for bland and easily digestible foods like porridge and milk to avoid excessive irritation of the gastrointestinal tract.

2. Acute Gastroenteritis

Ingesting contaminated food can lead to the invasion of pathogens, triggering acute gastroenteritis and damaging the gastrointestinal mucosa, which may cause gastrointestinal bleeding. In such cases, the blood is often dark red or black and may be accompanied by abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and other symptoms. Medications such as metoclopramide, raceanisodamine, and belladonna alkaloids can be prescribed for treatment under medical guidance.

3. Bacterial Dysentery

Elderly individuals infected with shigella bacteria may develop bacterial dysentery, characterized by abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloody mucus in stool. Treatment options include Changyanning Granules, Levofloxacin Hydrochloride Capsules, and Cefixime Capsules, all of which should be used as directed by a doctor.

4. Gastric Ulcer

Factors like medication use and Helicobacter pylori infection can contribute to the development of gastric ulcers, which can manifest as abdominal pain, acid reflux, and belching. Severe ulcers may cause vomiting of blood and the passage of black stool. Treatment may involve medications like Omeprazole Enteric-coated Capsules, Colloidal Bismuth Pectin Capsules, and Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium Tablets, all to be taken as prescribed.

5. Duodenal Ulcer

Improper diet, frequent熬夜劳累 (insomnia and exhaustion), and Helicobacter pylori infection can lead to duodenal ulcers, typically presenting with abdominal pain, acid reflux, belching, and black stool. Treatment options may include Rabeprazole Sodium Enteric-coated Tablets, Omeprazole Magnesium Enteric-coated Tablets, and Hydrotalcite Tablets, all administered under medical supervision.

Other factors, such as ulcerative colitis, may also contribute to these symptoms. Regular attention to dietary adjustments and observation of one's physical recovery are essential. Persistent symptoms necessitate prompt medical attention.