Diarrheais a common problem.
Even healthy adults and children may have diarrhea a few times a year.
But in many situations, the reason may never be known.
Verywell / Gary Ferster
Diarrhea that occurs for a few days is usually not a reason to seek treatment from a healthcare provider.
But how do you know when you should see a healthcare provider for diarrhea?
Diarrhea that is accompanied byblood in the stoolor byblack or tarry stoolsis always a reason to seek medical treatment.
The symptoms will largely depend on the reason for the diarrhea.
Not all of these symptoms will happen in every case.
Blood in the Stool
Blood in the stool is never normal.
However, seeing blood in or on the stool is a reason to see a healthcare provider.
Red blood in/on the stool is a sign that blood is coming from down lower in the digestive tract.
Certain bacterial or viral infections can cause a fever.
There are also several other reasons that there could be mucus in the stool.
Having mucus in the stool is a reason to call a healthcare provider and get an appointment.
Severe Abdominal Pain
Some viruses or other conditions that cause diarrhea might also cause some abdominal pain.
But when this pain is severe it could be a reason to see a healthcare provider.
Signs of Dehydration
Its not common to becomedehydratedwith a typical bout of uncomplicated diarrhea.
Without a colon, it is easier to become dehydrated when having diarrhea and/or vomiting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Diarrhea from a viral gastric infection typically lasts a day or two.
Diarrhea is usually preceded by abdominal cramping or pain.
In some cases, the first sign of diarrhea is an urgent need to have a bowel movement.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Symptoms & causes of diarrhea.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Ulcerative Colitis.
2011;84(10):1119-1126.
30
Dupont HL.Diagnosis and management ofClostridium difficileinfection.
2013;11(10):1216-1223; quiz e73.
