Diarrhea, the frequent passing of loose, watery stool, is a common ailment. Most people experience it occasionally, and it usually resolves on its own within a few days. However, persistent diarrhea or diarrhea accompanied by other symptoms can signal a more serious underlying issue. Knowing when to manage it at home and when to seek medical attention is crucial for preventing complications.
What Does Diarrhea Feel Like?
The primary sign of diarrhea is three or more watery bowel movements each day. Beyond that, you might experience:
- Bloating and abdominal cramps: Discomfort in your stomach is typical.
- Blood or mucus in stool: This suggests inflammation or infection.
- Fever and nausea: These point to a possible viral or bacterial cause.
- Urgent need to use the bathroom: Feeling like you can’t hold it is common.
These symptoms can arise from various factors, including medication side effects, dietary changes, underlying digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or infections. When infections are involved, additional symptoms may include vomiting, chills, dizziness, and dehydration.
The Risk of Dehydration and Malabsorption
Diarrhea can rapidly deplete your body’s fluids, leading to dehydration. This is particularly dangerous for children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Dehydration signs include:
- Dark urine
- Dry mouth
- Extreme thirst
- Fatigue
- Sunken eyes
Prolonged diarrhea can also cause malabsorption, where the body struggles to absorb nutrients from food. Symptoms of malabsorption include abdominal pain, appetite changes, bloating, fatty stool, nausea, and weight loss.
Foods to Avoid During Diarrhea
To minimize discomfort, avoid foods that can worsen symptoms:
- Dairy products
- Fatty, fried foods
- Sugary drinks
- Caffeine and alcohol
- Spicy foods
When Should You See a Doctor?
While occasional diarrhea is rarely a concern, it’s important to seek medical attention under certain circumstances:
- Diarrhea lasting longer than two days: Prolonged symptoms may indicate an underlying infection or condition.
- High fever (102°F or higher): A fever suggests the body is fighting an infection.
- Severe abdominal or rectal pain: Intense pain could indicate a serious issue like inflammatory bowel disease.
- Bloody, black, or tarry stools: These indicate bleeding in the digestive tract.
- Frequent vomiting: Severe vomiting can lead to dehydration.
- Signs of dehydration: If you or someone else exhibits symptoms like dark urine, dry mouth, or extreme fatigue, seek medical help immediately.
Infants, toddlers, and young children require prompt medical attention if they have diarrhea for more than 24 hours, as they can become dehydrated quickly. Older adults, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant women should also consult a doctor if symptoms persist.
What to Expect at the Doctor
Your doctor may order tests to determine the cause of your diarrhea, such as stool cultures to identify infections or blood tests to check for inflammation. In some cases, a colonoscopy might be recommended to evaluate the colon for abnormalities.
The Bottom Line
Occasional diarrhea is usually harmless and resolves on its own. However, persistent symptoms, especially when accompanied by fever, dehydration, or blood in the stool, warrant medical attention. Being aware of the risks and knowing when to seek help can prevent complications and ensure proper treatment.
