Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice

Q: Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello： If you are experiencing diarrhea with watery stools and irregular bowel movements, it may be related to gastroenteritis, which can be associated with the food you consume, your water intake, and possible infections. <br>It is advisable to review your diet, ensuring it is b

Gastrointestinal issues

Hello Dr.
Lin, I have some gastrointestinal issues I would like to ask about.
On April 20, 21, and 22, whatever I ate caused diarrhea, which was watery.
At night, I felt very uncomfortable in my stomach, and afterwards, I couldn't have a bowel movement.
After drinking yogurt, I immediately had to go to the bathroom and had a small bowel movement.
On April 29, after breakfast, I kept running to the bathroom, and my stools were more frequent than before.
Do I need to see a doctor? Thank you.

Yide, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/04/30

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: If you are experiencing diarrhea with watery stools and irregular bowel movements, it may be related to gastroenteritis, which can be associated with the food you consume, your water intake, and possible infections.
It is advisable to review your diet, ensuring it is balanced and consists of light and clean foods and beverages.
Avoid greasy foods, chew slowly, and steer clear of dairy products if you have diarrhea.
Make sure to stay hydrated and replenish electrolytes to prevent dehydration.
Practice good hand hygiene, wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and avoid raw foods and drinks.
Monitor your bowel habits for any improvements, and watch for symptoms such as frequent trips to the restroom, diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, or blood in the stool.
It is recommended to consult a physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Lin Ming-Hui, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2014/04/30

More Info

Hello! It sounds like you are experiencing some significant gastrointestinal issues, and I understand your concern. Based on the symptoms you've described, it is important to consider several factors before deciding whether to seek medical advice.

Firstly, the fact that you have been experiencing diarrhea, especially if it is watery, can indicate a few potential issues. Diarrhea can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections (viral, bacterial, or parasitic), food intolerances, or even stress. If your symptoms have persisted for several days, as you mentioned from April 20 to April 29, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

Here are some key points to consider regarding your symptoms:
1. Duration of Symptoms: If diarrhea lasts more than 48 hours, it is generally recommended to see a doctor. Persistent diarrhea can lead to dehydration, which can be serious, especially if you are not able to keep fluids down.

2. Associated Symptoms: Pay attention to any additional symptoms you may have, such as fever, severe abdominal pain, blood in your stool, or signs of dehydration (such as dry mouth, dizziness, or decreased urine output). These symptoms warrant immediate medical attention.

3. Dietary Factors: You mentioned that you have been experiencing diarrhea after eating certain foods. This could suggest a food intolerance or sensitivity. Keeping a food diary to track what you eat and your symptoms can help identify any triggers.

4. Hydration: It is crucial to stay hydrated, especially when experiencing diarrhea. Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, clear broths, or oral rehydration solutions, can help prevent dehydration.

5. Probiotics: You mentioned consuming yogurt, which contains probiotics. Probiotics can be beneficial for gut health and may help restore the balance of good bacteria in your intestines, especially after an episode of diarrhea.

6. Medical Evaluation: If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, it is important to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, laboratory tests, or imaging studies to determine the underlying cause of your gastrointestinal issues.

In summary, while some gastrointestinal disturbances can resolve on their own, the persistence of your symptoms over several days, especially with watery diarrhea, suggests that it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your specific situation. Remember, early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so don't hesitate to seek help if you feel it's necessary. Take care of yourself!

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