Managing Diarrhea and Stomach Pain in Teens: When to See a Doctor

Diarrhea can cause abdominal pain?

Hello, my son is currently in the second year of junior high school.
He frequently eats pizza, which often contains cheese.
After consuming it, his stools have become loose, and he often complains of stomach pain in the morning.
How should we address this? He is experiencing symptoms even when he doesn't eat cheese.
Should we see a doctor? Thank you for your advice! Mrs.
Wang

Wang Tai Tai, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/06/01

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, please pay attention to your diet by reducing the intake of greasy, sweet, and spicy foods.
Sometimes, this may be a sign of irritable bowel syndrome.
If the symptoms persist and are severe, it is best to consult a physician.
Sincerely, Dr.
Lin Ming-Hui, Internal Medicine.

Reply Date: 2005/06/01

More Info

Hello Mrs. Wang,
Thank you for reaching out regarding your son's symptoms. It sounds like he is experiencing some gastrointestinal issues that could be related to his diet, particularly his consumption of cheese and pizza. Let's break down the situation and discuss when it might be necessary to see a doctor.

Firstly, diarrhea and stomach pain in teenagers can be caused by a variety of factors, including dietary choices, infections, stress, or underlying medical conditions. Since you mentioned that your son has been eating a lot of cheese, it’s possible that he could be experiencing lactose intolerance. Lactose intolerance is a common condition where the body has difficulty digesting lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. Symptoms can include bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain after consuming dairy.

If your son’s symptoms started after he began eating more cheese, it might be worth reducing his dairy intake to see if his condition improves. You can try substituting lactose-free dairy products or non-dairy alternatives to see if that alleviates his symptoms. Additionally, keeping a food diary can help identify any specific foods that trigger his stomach pain or diarrhea.

However, if your son is experiencing persistent symptoms, such as ongoing diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, or if he shows signs of dehydration (such as dry mouth, decreased urination, or dizziness), it is important to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination and possibly some tests to rule out infections, food allergies, or other gastrointestinal disorders.

In general, you should consider taking your son to see a doctor if:
1. Symptoms Persist: If his diarrhea and stomach pain continue for more than a couple of days without improvement.

2. Severe Pain: If he experiences severe abdominal pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter medications or home remedies.

3. Signs of Dehydration: If he shows any signs of dehydration, such as excessive thirst, dry mouth, or reduced urination.

4. Blood in Stool: If you notice blood or mucus in his stool, which could indicate a more serious condition.

5. Weight Loss: If he is losing weight or not eating well due to his symptoms.

In the meantime, ensure that he stays hydrated, especially if he is experiencing diarrhea. Encourage him to drink plenty of fluids, such as water or electrolyte solutions, to prevent dehydration. Also, a bland diet (such as bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast) may help settle his stomach.

In conclusion, while dietary changes may help alleviate your son's symptoms, it is essential to monitor his condition closely. If his symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and management. Early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure your son’s health and well-being.

Best wishes for your son's recovery!

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