The symptoms you're describing, such as frequent loose stools, the presence of mucus, and nausea, can be associated with a variety of gastrointestinal conditions. These could range from infections (like bacterial or viral gastroenteritis) to inflammatory conditions, food intolerances, or other digestive issues.
Here are some steps you might consider:
stay hydrated: with frequent diarrhea, it's important to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids like water, broth, or oral rehydration solutions.
Diet adjustments: eating bland, easy-to-digest foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast can be helpful. Avoid dairy products, fatty foods, high fiber foods, or highly seasoned foods for now.
Rest: your body needs energy to fight off whatever is causing your symptoms, so getting plenty of rest is important.
Over-the-counter medications: there are over-the-counter medications that can help manage diarrhea, but it's usually best to use these only if absolutely necessary, as your body may need to expel whatever is causing the issue.
Seek medical attention: since these symptoms have persisted for several days, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider. They can give you specific advice, conduct tests if needed, and prescribe medication.
Avoid self-diagnosis: while it's tempting to try to diagnose the problem yourself, gastrointestinal symptoms can be complex and are best evaluated by a professional.
Monitor for dehydration: signs of dehydration include feeling very thirsty, having a dry mouth or skin, urinating less frequently, and dark-colored urine. If you notice these symptoms, it's important to seek medical care.