Is It Diarrhea or Gastroenteritis? Your Symptoms - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Is this diarrhea or gastroenteritis?

Hello Doctor: I experience stomach pain within 5-10 minutes after every meal, followed by diarrhea.
This has been ongoing for two weeks.
My diet has been very light, so it's unlikely that I have food poisoning.
My menstrual period coincided with the onset of symptoms, and I thought it might be related, but it hasn't improved after my period ended.
1.
Is this diarrhea, gastroenteritis, or another condition? 2.
Which specialty should I consult: gastroenterology, family medicine, or obstetrics and gynecology? 3.
Will I need an ultrasound during the outpatient visit for my symptoms? I'm scared and hesitant to see a doctor.
Thank you, Doctor.

Ting Ting, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/11/27

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, your symptoms are likely indicative of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), which is characterized by increased intestinal motility.
You may take gastrointestinal medication before meals to alleviate the symptoms, and it is advisable to reduce the intake of dairy and fatty foods.
An ultrasound examination is non-invasive but may not effectively reveal gastrointestinal issues.
You can consult a gastroenterologist for further evaluation.
This information is provided for your reference.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shidian.

Reply Date: 2016/11/27

More Info

Based on your symptoms and the context provided, it seems that you are experiencing a significant gastrointestinal issue that could be classified as either diarrhea or gastroenteritis. Let’s break down your concerns and provide some clarity.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Nature of Symptoms: You mentioned that you experience abdominal pain shortly after meals, followed by diarrhea, which has persisted for two weeks. This pattern suggests a possible gastrointestinal disturbance. While diarrhea can be a symptom of gastroenteritis, it can also occur due to other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), food intolerances, or even stress-related gastrointestinal issues.

2. Gastroenteritis vs. Diarrhea: Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, often caused by viral or bacterial infections, leading to symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and fever. In contrast, diarrhea itself is a symptom that can arise from various causes, including infections, dietary changes, or chronic conditions like IBS. Given that your symptoms started after meals and are consistent, it might lean more towards a functional gastrointestinal disorder or a mild case of gastroenteritis, especially if there are no other systemic symptoms like fever or severe dehydration.

Which Specialist to See
3. Choosing the Right Specialist: Given your symptoms, it would be most appropriate to consult a gastroenterologist. They specialize in digestive system disorders and can provide a thorough evaluation of your gastrointestinal symptoms. While a family medicine doctor could also assist, a gastroenterologist would have more specific expertise in diagnosing and treating conditions like yours.

4. Role of Gynecology: You mentioned your menstrual cycle and considered whether it could be related. While hormonal changes can affect gastrointestinal function, the immediate nature of your symptoms post-meal suggests a more direct gastrointestinal issue rather than a gynecological one. However, if you have concerns about menstrual-related symptoms, a consultation with a gynecologist could also be beneficial.

Diagnostic Tests
5. Need for Imaging: Regarding your concern about needing an ultrasound, it’s important to note that not all gastrointestinal issues require imaging. The decision to perform an ultrasound or any other imaging study typically depends on the initial evaluation by your doctor. If your symptoms are consistent with a common gastrointestinal disorder, they may start with a physical examination and a detailed history before deciding on further tests. If there are red flags (such as severe pain, blood in stool, or significant weight loss), imaging might be warranted.

Recommendations for Relief
6. Immediate Steps: In the meantime, consider keeping a food diary to identify any potential triggers in your diet. Avoiding high-fat, spicy, or overly rich foods may help alleviate symptoms. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially if diarrhea persists. Over-the-counter medications like loperamide (Imodium) can provide temporary relief from diarrhea, but it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication.

7. Follow-Up: If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly. Persistent diarrhea can lead to dehydration and other complications, so timely intervention is key.

In summary, your symptoms suggest a gastrointestinal issue that could be related to either diarrhea or gastroenteritis. Consulting a gastroenterologist would be the most appropriate step, and they can guide you through the necessary evaluations and treatments. Keeping track of your symptoms and any dietary changes will also be beneficial in your discussions with your healthcare provider.

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