Diarrhea Treatment Specialist Questions and Answers

Diarrhea can be seen as loose, watery, and more often than not more frequent bowel movements which is a common problem among many. It may be present by itself, or with other symptoms including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or weight loss.

Diarrhea is usually short-lived and normally lasts no longer than a few days. When diarrhea lasts beyond a few days and moves into weeks, it is an indication that there is another problem to worry about including irritable bowel syndrome, or a more serious condition including persistent infection, celiac disease, or inflammatory bowel disease.

The many symptoms that are often associated with diarrhea other than loose, watery stools, include:

• Abdominal cramping
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Blood seen in the stool
• Mucus seen in the stool
• Urgent need to go to the bathroom for a bowel movement

There can be many complications when it comes to having diarrhea, diarrhea can often cause dehydration, which is a life-threatening condition if left untreated. Dehydration is particularly dangerous in children, the elderly and those with a weakened immune system. If you are noticing signs of dehydration, seek immediate medical help.

Indications of dehydration in adults:

• Excessive thirst
• Dry mouth
• Dry skin
• Little to no urination
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Fatigue
• Dark-colored urine

Indications of dehydration in infants and young children:

• No wet diaper in three or more hours
• Dry mouth
• Dry tongue
• Fever above 102^oF (39^oC)
• Crying with no tears present
• Drowsiness
• Unresponsive
• Irritable
• Sunken appearance to the abdomen, eyes and/or cheeks

In young children, and children or infants in general, diarrhea can quickly turn to dehydration. Call or visit a doctor immediately if your child’s diarrhea does not improve within 24 hours of if you notice your child:

• Becomes dehydrated (see dehydration symptoms above)
• Have a fever of 102^oF (39^oC)
• Have bloody or black stools

Adults can also have complications and should see a doctor if:

• Diarrhea persists beyond two days with no improvement showing
• Dehydration is occurring
• Severe abdominal or rectal pain
• Noticing bloody or black stools
• Fever above 102^oF (39^oC)

Treatment for diarrhea may need medical assistance. When visiting your doctor, they may ask about your medical history, review any medications you are taking, conduct a physical exam and order tests based off the examination to determine what the cause of your diarrhea may be. These tests may include:

• Blood test
• Stool test
• Hydrogen breath test
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy
• Upper endoscopy

If you tried to treat yourself, you may have tried lifestyle changes and home remedies for your diarrhea without success, a doctor visit will be your next best option. Once the tests have come back and your examination has been completed, your doctor will offer treatment options based on the results.

• Antibiotics or anti-parasitics
• Treatment to replace loss of fluids
• Adjusting medications, you are already taking

If you or someone you know is dealing with bouts of diarrhea, and it has been more than 24 hours without relief, visit one of our 7 Immediate Care Oklahoma locations in Edmond OK, Norman OK (24^th), Norman OK (HealthPlex), Tecumseh OK, West Moore OK, Yukon OK, and I-240 & Sooner Road, OK. We offer walk-in service at all of our locations as well as appointments available by phone or scheduling online through our appointments app. If you have any questions or concerns, we will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. Call us today! We serve patients from West Moore OK, Tecumseh OK, Norman (HealthPlex) OK, Norman (24th) OK, Edmond OK, I-240 & Sooner RD OK, Yukon OK, and Bethany OK.