Recurring Diarrhea: When to Seek Medical Attention - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Diarrhea issues?

Hello, doctor.
About five days ago, I experienced cramping abdominal pain and diarrhea, having two bowel movements on that day.
After a few days, my stools returned to normal.
I thought it was due to eating undercooked food.
However, today, on 10/30, I have diarrhea again (without cramping abdominal pain).
The foods I have eaten in the past few days have not been particularly greasy, and I have not taken any medications.
I usually take probiotics.
What could be the cause of this, and do I need to see a doctor?

Awei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/30

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Mild enteritis is possible; further observation is recommended.

Reply Date: 2022/10/30

More Info

Recurring diarrhea can be a concerning symptom, especially when it occurs multiple times within a short period. In your case, it seems that you experienced an episode of abdominal cramping and diarrhea about five days ago, which resolved but has now returned without the accompanying pain. Given that you have also consumed undercooked food, it is understandable to suspect that this could be related to foodborne illness. However, there are several factors to consider when determining whether you should seek medical attention.

Firstly, the nature of your diarrhea is important. If it is watery and frequent, or if you notice blood or mucus in your stool, these could be signs of a more serious condition that warrants immediate medical evaluation. Additionally, if you experience symptoms such as fever, severe abdominal pain, or signs of dehydration (such as excessive thirst, dry mouth, or decreased urination), you should seek medical attention promptly.

The fact that you have been taking probiotics is generally a positive aspect, as they can help restore the balance of gut bacteria, especially after an episode of diarrhea. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen despite taking probiotics, it may indicate that there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

Recurring diarrhea can be caused by various factors, including infections (viral, bacterial, or parasitic), food intolerances, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or even stress. Since you mentioned that your bowel movements returned to normal after the initial episode, it is possible that your body was able to recover from the first incident. However, the recurrence suggests that there may be another trigger or underlying condition that needs to be investigated.

In general, if diarrhea lasts more than two days, or if you have recurrent episodes, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend tests such as stool cultures, blood tests, or imaging studies to determine the cause of your symptoms. Additionally, they can provide guidance on dietary modifications, hydration strategies, and any necessary medications to help manage your condition.

In summary, while it is possible that your current episode of diarrhea is a mild and self-limiting condition, the recurrence and your history of consuming undercooked food suggest that it would be prudent to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment to prevent further episodes. Remember to stay hydrated, monitor your symptoms closely, and do not hesitate to reach out for medical advice if you have any concerns.

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