Treatment for Diarrhea in Hialeah, Coral Gables, Miami, and Pembroke Pines in FL
Diarrhea is a condition causing loose, watery stools. The condition may also cause more frequent bowel movements. Diarrhea often goes away quickly, but it can also become a chronic problem and may indicate a more serious medical condition.
Causes of Diarrhea
Diarrhea may be caused by a bacterial or viral infection. In these cases, diarrhea is often accompanied by other symptoms, including fever, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. There are also medical conditions associated with diarrhea. These include:
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Ulcerative colitis
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Crohn’s disease or celiac disease
- Small-intestine bacterial overgrowth
Signs and Symptoms of Diarrhea
In addition to loose, watery stools, diarrhea can also be accompanied by:
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Bloating and swelling
- Blood or mucus in the stool
When You Should Visit a Gastroenterologist for Diarrhea
Diarrhea may go away on its own. If diarrhea doesn’t resolve, you should visit your GI doctor 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
How Your Gastroenterologist Can Help With Diarrhea
Treatment for diarrhea depends on what is causing your diarrhea. Your GI doctor may recommend diagnostic tests, including a colonoscopy, stool tests, or blood tests. Depending on the cause of 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
To Learn About How We Can Help You.
Call Digestive Medicine Associates at (305) 822-4107 to schedule an appointment today! Proudly serving Hialeah, Coral Gables, Miami, and Pembroke Pines.
