Discuss the causes, symptoms and dietary management of diarrhoea.

1. 1 · Open in two lines. Diarrhoea is three or more loose or watery stools in 24 hours. Dehydration is its main danger.
2. 2 · Types and causes.
   • Acute, persistent and chronic.
   • Infection, food poisoning, unsafe water, lactose intolerance, drugs, IBS.
3. 3 · Symptoms and dehydration signs. Watery stools, cramps, weakness; thirst, sunken eyes, dry mouth, less urine.
4. 4 · ORS. WHO low-osmolarity ORS composition; home-made ORS: 6 level tsp sugar + ½ level tsp salt in 1 litre.
5. 5 · Diet principles table. Fluid and electrolytes high; energy adequate in small frequent meals; fat low; low residue; curd instead of milk.
6. 6 · Foods to include and avoid, then a menu. Include kanji, idli, curd rice, banana, tender coconut water; avoid fried, spicy, high-fibre foods; give a one-day menu.
7. 7 · Close in one line. Replace fluids, keep feeding and the patient recovers faster.

Scoring tip: Write the ORS composition in a small box; it is the most looked-for fact in this answer.