Week-Long Diarrhea and Abdominal Pain After Seafood

Diarrhea for a week and abdominal pain?

Last week, after eating some seafood, I started experiencing diarrhea.
The frequency of my bowel movements has slightly increased.
Initially, my stools were very watery, but in the following days, they became more like shredded meat.
Occasionally, I have pain in the upper left abdomen or lower abdomen.

Awei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/06

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

If you have a fever, please seek medical attention immediately.
Maintain a light diet, low in oil and dairy, and continue to monitor your condition.

Reply Date: 2023/08/06

More Info

Experiencing diarrhea and abdominal pain after consuming seafood can be concerning, and it’s essential to understand the potential causes and appropriate responses. Based on the symptoms described, it appears that you may be dealing with a case of foodborne illness, commonly known as food poisoning, which can occur after eating contaminated seafood.
Seafood can harbor various pathogens, including bacteria (like Vibrio, Salmonella, and E. coli), viruses (such as Norovirus), and parasites (like Giardia). These pathogens can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The watery stools you initially experienced followed by a change to a more formed, "meat floss" consistency could indicate that your body is attempting to recover from the initial irritation and inflammation caused by the infection.

The left upper abdominal pain you mentioned could be related to several factors. It might be due to the irritation of the gastrointestinal tract, which can occur with infections. Additionally, if the pain is persistent or severe, it could indicate a more serious condition, such as pancreatitis or an issue with the spleen, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms like fever or significant discomfort.

Given that you have experienced these symptoms for a week, it is crucial to monitor your condition closely. If you develop a fever, notice blood in your stools, or if the abdominal pain worsens or does not improve, you should seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare provider may recommend tests, such as stool cultures or blood tests, to identify the specific cause of your symptoms and determine the appropriate treatment.

In the meantime, it is advisable to maintain hydration, as diarrhea can lead to dehydration. Drinking clear fluids, such as water, broth, or electrolyte solutions, can help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes. Avoiding dairy products, caffeine, alcohol, and high-fat or spicy foods is also recommended until your symptoms resolve, as these can further irritate your gastrointestinal tract.

As you recover, you can gradually reintroduce bland foods into your diet, such as bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (often referred to as the BRAT diet). These foods are gentle on the stomach and can help firm up stools. Once you feel better, you can slowly return to your regular diet, but it may be wise to avoid seafood until you are certain that your gastrointestinal system has fully recovered.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be indicative of a common foodborne illness, it is essential to remain vigilant and seek medical advice if your condition does not improve or worsens. Taking care of your hydration and diet during this period will be crucial for your recovery.

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