Diarrhea

What is diarrhea?

Diarrhea is watery, loose stool that occurs three or more times in a day. It might last just a few days and go away without treatment. 

However, long-lasting diarrhea that lingers more than several days could be a sign of gastrointestinal problem, which is why an evaluation with Dr. Cho and his team is a good idea.

What are the symptoms of diarrhea?

Diarrhea is often associated with the following signs and symptoms:

• Nausea
• Bloating
• Mucus in the stool
• Abdominal pain
• Fever
• Abdominal cramps
• Loose stool
• Watery stool
• Loss of bowel control

If you have diarrhea, you might experience an urgent need for a bowel movement with little warning.

What causes diarrhea?

Bacteria and parasites from contaminated water or food can result in diarrhea. Viruses associated with the flu, rotavirus, and norovirus are other causes. Diarrhea is a side effect of taking certain medications, such as antibiotics, antacids, and cancer drugs.

You might get diarrhea if you have food sensitivities or intolerances, such as lactose intolerance, or digestive diseases. 

Examples include Crohn’s disease and irritable bowel syndrome. You may experience traveler’s diarrhea from visiting developing countries and consuming contaminated food or water there.

What are the complications of diarrhea?

Dehydration is the most common complication of diarrhea and occurs more often in young children, older adults, and people with weak immune systems. 

Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, dark-colored urine, weakness, fatigue, dizziness, and excessive thirst. Crying without tears is a symptom of dehydration in young children.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Cho if your stools are tarry, black, bloody, contain pus – or severe rectal or abdominal pain accompany diarrhea.

What is the treatment for diarrhea?

Dr. Cho reviews your symptoms and medical history to determine the cause of diarrhea and find a treatment that’s right for you. He may complete a physical exam, blood tests, stool tests, or a colonoscopy to make a diagnosis. Your personalized treatment plan varies based on the cause of diarrhea and might include:

• Watchful waiting
• Drinking more fluids
• Avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and certain foods
• Taking probiotics
• Over-the-counter antidiarrheal medications
• Antibiotics for diarrhea caused by parasites or bacteria
• IV fluid replacement for dehydration
• Medication adjustments
• Treatment for underlying causes of diarrhea

Dr. Cho treats gastrointestinal medical conditions associated with diarrhea, such as inflammatory bowel disease, to prevent chronic (long-lasting) diarrhea. He customizes a treatment plan just for you.

Don’t let diarrhea cause embarrassing situations or serious compilations. Call Samuel Cho, MD, PC, to schedule an appointment today, or use the online booking tool.