Hydration stopped ‘accidents’

DEAR DR. GOTT: I am a 65-year-old woman. For about five years, I suffered from unpredictable fecal incontinence and diarrhea. Both afflictions were unpleasant and caused me considerable anxiety.

My 84-year-old aunt was not a bit shocked when I confided this to her. She simply told me to drink more water. Of course, my reaction was “Huh?” to which she said, “You’re dehydrated. Just do it!”

I can tell you that it really did work. Although I disdain the heaviness of so much water, I changed from iced water to room temperature, and the feeling isn’t so bad. I now drink about four ounces 12 times a day and have no more problems.

How could this be – more water curing me of both afflictions?

DEAR READER: Diarrhea is typically caused by an infection or functional bowel disorder, such as irritable bowel syndrome. It can lead to dehydration, so it is important to take in additional fluids during an episode. Constipation often responds well to increased fluid intake. I am just as baffled as you are, but I am printing your letter with the request that if any of my readers have heard of or have had experience with this, they should write to me with their results.

As a matter of interest, I will briefly discuss dehydration. This condition occurs when the body loses more water than it takes in.

Treatment is simple: hydrate. This can often be accomplished by simply cooling down and drinking more fluids. In severe cases, IV fluids may be needed to replace not only lost water but also lost electrolytes.

To provide related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Constipation and Diarrhea.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 U.S. check or money order to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.