Diarrhea is a common and uncomfortable problem. It’s also something most people don’t want to talk about. Unfortunately, diarrhea can also be a sign of a more serious condition, and you need to know when to see a doctor for diarrhea. The gastroenterologists of Comprehensive Digestive Institute of Nevada in Las Vegas, NV, offer a wide range of gastroenterology services, including treatment of diarrhea.
What You Need To Know About Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a condition that results in increased bowel movements and loose, watery stools. It may go away on its own or it may need treatment to resolve.
Diarrhea may be caused by:
- A bacterial or viral infection
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Ulcerative colitis
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Crohn’s disease or celiac disease
- Small-intestine bacterial overgrowth
In addition to loose, watery stools, you may also experience:
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Bloating and swelling
- Blood or mucus in the stool
You should see a doctor for diarrhea if you:
- Have diarrhea continue for more than two days
- Are experiencing severe abdominal pain
- Notice bloody or black stools
- Have a fever above 102 degrees
Diarrhea should be treated by a gastroenterologist, who will diagnose and treat the underlying cause of your diarrhea. A gastroenterologist may recommend a colonoscopy, stool tests, or blood tests to aid in diagnosis.
Depending on what is causing your diarrhea, your gastroenterologist may recommend:
- Prescription anti-diarrheal medications
- Antibiotics to kill bacteria causing diarrhea
- Replacing fluids with fluids containing electrolytes
- Avoiding caffeine and alcohol
- Eating a bland or liquid diet and avoiding dairy, fatty foods, high-fiber foods, or highly seasoned foods
Want To Know More About the Causes and Treatment of Diarrhea?
To find out more about when to see a doctor for diarrhea and how your gastroenterologist can help, call the gastroenterologists of Comprehensive Digestive Institute of Nevada, serving residents of Henderson, and Las Vegas, NV. You can reach them at (702) 483-4483, so call today.