Persistent Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Advanced Medical Care

Q: Persistent Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Advanced Medical Care

Hello： It may be necessary to adjust your diet. <br>Try to avoid high-fat and high-protein foods for the next two weeks. <br>If there is no improvement, or if diarrhea symptoms worsen, please consult a gastroenterologist. <br>Changhua Hospital cares about your health. <br>Dr. <br

Gastrointestinal issues have not improved for two to three weeks?

Hello, I have been experiencing gastrointestinal issues after having a cold and tonsillitis.
Just as I was getting better, I started having diarrhea.
I visited a doctor who diagnosed me with norovirus and prescribed medication.
When my stools started to take shape, I ate barbecue, and then the diarrhea returned.
After that, I switched to toast and plain rice.
A week later, I had two days of normal bowel movements and thought I was better, but after eating some beef bacon, the diarrhea returned.
This has been going on for two to three weeks without improvement.
Should I go to a major hospital for further examination?

m19990, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/18

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: It may be necessary to adjust your diet.
Try to avoid high-fat and high-protein foods for the next two weeks.
If there is no improvement, or if diarrhea symptoms worsen, please consult a gastroenterologist.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2016/09/18

More Info

Persistent gastrointestinal issues can be quite distressing, especially when they follow an acute illness like a viral infection. In your case, it seems that after experiencing symptoms consistent with norovirus, you have been dealing with ongoing diarrhea and digestive discomfort for several weeks. This situation warrants careful consideration and potentially advanced medical care.

Firstly, it is important to understand that gastrointestinal symptoms can arise from various causes, including infections, dietary intolerances, inflammatory conditions, and even stress. Given your history of norovirus, it is possible that your gastrointestinal tract is still recovering from the initial infection. However, the recurrence of diarrhea after consuming certain foods, such as beef bacon, suggests that there may be an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

Here are some key points to consider when deciding whether to seek advanced medical care:
1. Duration of Symptoms: Since you have been experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms for over two weeks, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Persistent diarrhea can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which can be serious if not managed properly.

2. Associated Symptoms: Pay attention to any additional symptoms you may be experiencing. If you have fever, severe abdominal pain, blood in your stool, or signs of dehydration (such as dizziness, dry mouth, or decreased urine output), you should seek medical attention promptly.

3. Dietary Triggers: It appears that certain foods exacerbate your symptoms. Keeping a food diary can help identify specific triggers. If you notice that certain foods consistently lead to gastrointestinal distress, it may indicate a food intolerance or sensitivity that needs to be evaluated.

4. Medical History: If you have a history of gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or previous surgeries, this may complicate your current situation and warrant a more thorough investigation.

5. Testing and Evaluation: A visit to a gastroenterologist may be beneficial. They can perform diagnostic tests such as stool studies, blood tests, or imaging studies to rule out infections, inflammatory conditions, or structural abnormalities in the gastrointestinal tract. In some cases, an endoscopy or colonoscopy may be recommended to visualize the intestines directly.

6. Management of Symptoms: In the meantime, focus on maintaining hydration by drinking plenty of fluids, and consider a bland diet that is easy on your digestive system. Foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet) can be helpful during recovery.

7. Follow-Up Care: If you do seek care and receive treatment, ensure that you follow up with your healthcare provider to monitor your symptoms and adjust your management plan as necessary.

In summary, given the duration of your symptoms and their impact on your daily life, it is advisable to seek advanced medical care. A healthcare professional can provide a comprehensive evaluation and help determine the underlying cause of your persistent gastrointestinal issues, ensuring that you receive appropriate treatment and support for your recovery.

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