Persistent Diarrhea and Abdominal Pain: Your Symptoms

I have been experiencing diarrhea for a long time?

Since May 23, I have been experiencing diarrhea and abdominal pain.
On May 23, I had three bowel movements, and on May 24, I only had abdominal pain and the urge to have a bowel movement, but I did not actually have one.
On May 25, it was similar to May 23.
On the morning of May 26, after having two bowel movements, I did not experience any abdominal pain or diarrhea for the rest of the day.
However, I developed a fever in the evening, and I am not sure if it was due to heat exhaustion, as I was in the sun for a long time that morning.
My parents think I might be suffering from heat exhaustion.
Today, I had diarrhea again and some abdominal pain, but it is not as severe as in the previous days.
The abdominal pain does not last long, and I have several episodes throughout the day.
I usually do not have diarrhea, so I am quite worried about having it for so many days.
I searched my symptoms on Google, and the results were mostly related to colorectal cancer.
Additionally, I have been passing gas, which has a strong odor, and I usually do not pass gas often.
I suspect it might be related to overeating, as the night before May 23, my family went out to eat, and I ate until I was very full.
Then on May 26, I went to an all-you-can-eat restaurant.
I want to know what is happening to me.

vin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/05/27

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, Miss.
You are experiencing some symptoms of gastroenteritis.
It is recommended that you visit an outpatient clinic for medical attention and maintain a light diet.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shidian.

Reply Date: 2018/05/27

More Info

Persistent diarrhea and abdominal pain can be distressing symptoms, and it's understandable that you are concerned, especially given the duration and nature of your symptoms. Let's break down the potential causes and considerations based on your description.

Possible Causes of Your Symptoms
1. Gastroenteritis: This is one of the most common causes of diarrhea and abdominal pain. It can be caused by viral infections (like norovirus or rotavirus), bacterial infections (such as E. coli or Salmonella), or parasites. Given that your symptoms began after eating out, it's possible that you contracted a foodborne illness.

2. Dietary Factors: You mentioned eating a lot before the onset of your symptoms. Overeating, especially rich or spicy foods, can lead to gastrointestinal distress, including diarrhea and abdominal pain. Foods that are high in fat or fiber can also cause increased gas production, leading to discomfort.

3. Dehydration and Heat Exhaustion: Since you experienced prolonged sun exposure, it's possible that you may have suffered from heat exhaustion, which can lead to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Dehydration can exacerbate abdominal pain and lead to further complications.

4. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): If you have a history of gastrointestinal issues, IBS could be a consideration. Stress, dietary changes, and other factors can trigger episodes of diarrhea and abdominal pain.

5. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause persistent diarrhea and abdominal pain. These conditions are usually accompanied by other symptoms such as weight loss, fatigue, or blood in the stool.

6. Other Gastrointestinal Disorders: Conditions such as celiac disease, lactose intolerance, or infections can also lead to similar symptoms. If you have recently changed your diet or consumed foods that you are intolerant to, this could be a factor.

Recommendations for Management
1. Hydration: It's crucial to stay hydrated, especially if you are experiencing diarrhea. Drink plenty of fluids, including water, oral rehydration solutions, or clear broths to replenish lost electrolytes.

2. Dietary Adjustments: Consider a bland diet (such as the BRAT diet: bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) to help ease your digestive system. Avoid greasy, spicy, or heavy foods until your symptoms improve.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including the frequency of diarrhea, any accompanying symptoms (like fever or blood in the stool), and any dietary changes. This information will be helpful for your healthcare provider.

4. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If your symptoms persist for more than a few days, worsen, or are accompanied by severe symptoms (such as high fever, dehydration, or blood in the stool), seek medical attention. A healthcare provider may recommend tests such as stool analysis, blood tests, or imaging studies to determine the underlying cause.

5. Avoid Self-Diagnosis: While it's natural to search for answers online, self-diagnosing can lead to unnecessary anxiety. Conditions like colorectal cancer are serious but are less common in younger individuals without risk factors. Focus on discussing your symptoms with a healthcare professional who can provide a thorough evaluation.

Conclusion
Your symptoms of persistent diarrhea and abdominal pain warrant careful attention, especially given their duration and your recent dietary habits. While there are many potential causes, ranging from infections to dietary indiscretions, it's essential to approach this systematically. Stay hydrated, monitor your symptoms, and consult a healthcare provider if your condition does not improve. Early intervention can help prevent complications and provide peace of mind.

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