What are the common causes of chills, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. How can these symptoms be treated effectively. What preventive measures can be taken to avoid these conditions.

Understanding the Symptoms: Chills, Vomiting, Diarrhea, and Stomach Pain

When experiencing a combination of chills, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain, it’s crucial to understand that these symptoms often indicate an underlying condition. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and may be caused by various factors, including infections, food poisoning, or even more serious health issues.

Chills are often associated with fever and can make you feel cold and shivery. Vomiting is the forceful expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth, while diarrhea refers to loose, watery stools occurring more frequently than usual. Stomach pain, also known as abdominal pain, can vary in intensity and location.

Common Causes of Chills, Vomiting, Diarrhea, and Stomach Pain

Several conditions can lead to the combination of these symptoms. Here are some of the most common causes:

1. Norovirus Infection

Norovirus, often referred to as the “stomach flu,” is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis. It’s one of the most common causes of foodborne illness worldwide. Symptoms typically include:

• Sudden onset of vomiting
• Watery diarrhea
• Abdominal cramps
• Nausea
• Low-grade fever
• Chills
• Headache
• Muscle aches

Norovirus symptoms usually last for 1-3 days, but the virus can remain in the stool for up to two weeks after recovery.

2. Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, often caused by viral or bacterial infections. According to a study in the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases, there are approximately 179 million cases of acute gastroenteritis in the United States each year. Symptoms include:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal cramps
• Low-grade fever or chills
• Headache
• Muscle aches

Symptoms can persist for up to a week, and treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications.

3. Salmonella Infection

Salmonella is a bacterial infection that affects the intestinal tract. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that Salmonella causes about 1.2 million illnesses annually in the U.S. Symptoms usually appear 12-72 hours after infection and may include:

• Diarrhea
• Fever or chills
• Abdominal cramps
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache

Most people recover without treatment within a few days, but severe cases may require medical intervention.

Less Common Causes of These Symptoms

While gastrointestinal infections are often the culprit, other conditions can also cause similar symptoms:

1. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary system. While the primary symptoms are urinary in nature, some people may experience abdominal pain and chills. UTIs are more common in women, with 40-60% experiencing one in their lifetime. Symptoms may include:

• Frequent, urgent need to urinate
• Burning sensation when urinating
• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
• Pelvic pain (in women)
• Fever and chills

2. Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. According to a 2018 review in Advances in Urology, about 1 in 11 people in the U.S. develop kidney stones. While not all kidney stones cause symptoms, larger ones can lead to:

• Severe pain in the side, back, or below the ribs
• Pain that radiates to the lower abdomen and groin
• Pain or burning sensation while urinating
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills if an infection is present

3. Prostatitis

Prostatitis, an inflammation of the prostate gland in males, can sometimes cause symptoms similar to those of a gastrointestinal illness. It has a prevalence rate of 8.2% and is the most common urological diagnosis in men under 50. Symptoms of bacterial prostatitis include:

• Difficulty urinating
• Flu-like symptoms, including chills
• Pain in the abdomen, lower back, or groin
• Painful urination and ejaculation

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Diagnosing the cause of chills, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history review, and possibly laboratory tests or imaging studies. The treatment approach will depend on the underlying cause:

For Viral Gastroenteritis (including Norovirus):

• Rest and adequate hydration
• Oral rehydration solutions to replace lost fluids and electrolytes
• Gradual reintroduction of bland foods (BRAT diet: Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast)
• Over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications (if not contraindicated)

For Bacterial Infections (like Salmonella):

• Antibiotics may be prescribed in severe cases or for high-risk individuals
• Supportive care, including rest and hydration
• Probiotics to help restore gut flora

For Urinary Tract Infections:

• Antibiotics are typically prescribed
• Increased fluid intake to help flush out bacteria
• Pain relievers for discomfort

For Kidney Stones:

• Pain management medications
• Increased fluid intake to help pass small stones
• Medical procedures or surgery for larger stones

Is it necessary to seek immediate medical attention for these symptoms? In most cases, mild symptoms can be managed at home. However, you should consult a healthcare provider if:

• Symptoms persist for more than a few days
• You experience signs of dehydration (excessive thirst, dry mouth, dark urine)
• You have a high fever (above 101.5°F or 38.6°C)
• You notice blood in your stool or vomit
• You have severe abdominal pain

Prevention Strategies

While it’s not always possible to prevent these conditions, certain measures can reduce your risk:

1. Practice Good Hygiene

Proper hand hygiene is crucial in preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially:

• Before preparing or eating food
• After using the bathroom
• After changing diapers
• After caring for someone who is ill

2. Food Safety

To prevent foodborne illnesses:

• Cook foods to safe internal temperatures
• Avoid cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods
• Refrigerate perishable foods promptly
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption

3. Stay Hydrated

Adequate hydration can help prevent urinary tract infections and kidney stones. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day, or more if you’re active or in hot weather.

4. Maintain a Healthy Diet

A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support your immune system and promote overall health. Limiting processed foods and excessive salt intake may help prevent kidney stones.

Long-term Health Implications

While most cases of gastroenteritis or urinary tract infections resolve without long-term effects, recurrent or severe episodes can have implications:

• Chronic dehydration can lead to kidney problems
• Recurrent UTIs may indicate underlying urological issues
• Frequent gastroenteritis can disrupt gut flora, potentially leading to digestive problems

Can these conditions lead to more serious health problems? In most cases, with proper treatment, these conditions do not cause long-term health issues. However, complications can occur, especially in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, or those with compromised immune systems.

The Role of Probiotics in Gut Health

Probiotics, often referred to as “good bacteria,” play a crucial role in maintaining gut health. They may be beneficial in preventing and treating various gastrointestinal conditions:

Benefits of Probiotics:

• Help restore balance to gut flora after infections or antibiotic use
• May reduce the duration and severity of infectious diarrhea
• Can help prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea
• May improve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

How can probiotics be incorporated into your diet? Probiotics can be found in fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi. They are also available as dietary supplements. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

The Impact of Stress on Digestive Health

Stress can have a significant impact on digestive health, potentially exacerbating symptoms or even triggering gastrointestinal issues. The gut-brain connection, also known as the gut-brain axis, plays a crucial role in this relationship.

How Stress Affects the Digestive System:

• Increases stomach acid production, potentially leading to heartburn or acid reflux
• Can alter gut motility, causing diarrhea or constipation
• May increase inflammation in the digestive tract
• Can exacerbate symptoms of existing conditions like IBS or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

What strategies can help manage stress and improve digestive health? Consider incorporating stress-reduction techniques such as:

• Regular exercise
• Meditation or mindfulness practices
• Deep breathing exercises
• Adequate sleep
• Engaging in hobbies or activities you enjoy

By managing stress effectively, you may be able to reduce the frequency and severity of digestive symptoms.

The Importance of Hydration in Digestive Health

Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining digestive health and preventing complications from conditions that cause vomiting and diarrhea. Water plays a vital role in various digestive processes:

Functions of Water in Digestion:

• Helps break down food in the stomach
• Aids in the absorption of nutrients in the intestines
• Prevents constipation by softening stools
• Helps flush toxins from the body

How much water should you drink daily? While individual needs vary, a general guideline is to aim for 8 glasses (64 ounces) of water per day. However, you may need more if you’re active, in hot weather, or experiencing diarrhea or vomiting.

Signs of Dehydration:

• Dark urine
• Dry mouth and lips
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Decreased urine output

If you’re experiencing vomiting or diarrhea, it’s crucial to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. Oral rehydration solutions can be particularly effective in these situations.

Stomach pain and chills: 12 causes

Here, we list some of the common causes of stomach pain and chills:

1. The common cold

Share on PinterestA bacterial or viral infection can cause stomach pain and chills.

Most adults can expect to have two or three colds every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Children usually have more.

The common cold causes symptoms including:

• body aches and pains
• coughing
• chills
• fatigue
• headache
• nausea or stomach ache
• a runny nose
• sneezing
• a sore throat

Symptoms typically improve after 7–10 days, though a cough can persist for 2 weeks or more.

Treatment involves home remedies such as resting, staying hydrated, and taking over-the-counter (OTC) medications.

2. Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis occurs when the stomach and intestines are inflamed due to a bacterial or viral infection.

Viral gastroenteritis, which some doctors call stomach flu, is the most common form. Other causes include reactions to food or medications.

In the United States, around 179 million cases of acute gastroenteritis each year, according to a study in the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases. This makes it one of the most common illnesses.

Signs and symptoms of gastroenteritis include:

• diarrhea
• headache
• low-grade fever or chills
• muscle aches
• nausea
• stomach cramps
• vomiting

Symptoms can persist for up to a week. Some treatment options include resting, staying hydrated, eating soft foods, and taking OTC medications.

3.

Salmonella infection

Infection with Salmonella bacteria is a common occurrence in the U.S. It causes 1.2 million illnesses annually, according to the CDC. People typically get the infection as a result of consuming contaminated food or water.

Symptoms usually begin within 12–72 hours of infection and may include:

• diarrhea
• fever or chills
• headache
• nausea
• stomach cramps
• vomiting

Treatment is typically unnecessary, and most people recover within a few days. During this time, self-care measures can reduce discomfort. People with severe symptoms may require medication or even hospitalization.

4. Urinary tract infection

A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria or other microbes infect the urinary tract. Females have a higher risk of developing UTIs than males do, with 40–60 percent of females experiencing one in their lifetime.

Symptoms may include:

• an increase in urinary frequency
• an increase in urinary urgency
• burning pain when urinating
• cloudy, strong-smelling, or pink urine
• fever or chills
• pain in the pelvis or back, which may radiate to the abdomen
• passing small amounts of urine regularly

Most UTIs will require antibiotic treatment, but some home remedies can reduce discomfort until the infection clears up. Home remedies include drinking plenty of water, avoiding caffeine, and using a heating pad on the abdomen.

5. Kidney stones

Share on PinterestDrinking fluids can help small kidney stones pass through the urinary tract.

When minerals and salts build up in the kidneys, they can form hard deposits called kidney stones.

A 2018 review in the journal Advances in Urology suggests that 1 in 11 people in the U.S. develop kidney stones.

These hard deposits may not cause any symptoms until they change positions in the kidney or urinary tract.

Kidney stones can then result in:

• changes in urinary habits and amount
• cloudy, strong-smelling, or pink urine
• fever and chills, in the case of an infection
• nausea
• pain in the abdomen, groin, sides, and back
• painful urination
• vomiting

Small kidney stones can pass through the urinary tract on their own. It is helpful to drink fluids and take pain relivers until the stone passes.

At other times, it is necessary to undergo surgery or another type of medical procedure to remove the stone.

6. Prostatitis

Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate gland, which is just below the bladder in males.

Prostatitis has a prevalence rate of 8.2 percent and is “the most common urological diagnosis” in males aged 50 and under.

Bacterial prostatitis, which results from bacterial infection, causes:

• difficulty urinating
• flu-like symptoms, such as chills
• cloudy or bloody urine
• frequent urination
• pain in the abdomen, lower back, genitals, or groin
• painful urination and ejaculation

Treatment may include taking antibiotics and other medications. Using heating pads, making dietary changes, and making lifestyle changes may provide some symptom relief.

7. Mononucleosis

Infectious mononucleosis, or the kissing disease or mono, passes between people through saliva. Along with stomach pain and chills, symptoms include:

• fatigue
• fever
• headache
• a sore throat
• skin rash
• swollen lymph nodes in the neck and armpits
• swollen tonsils

Symptoms usually do not appear until 4–6 weeks after infection and last for up to 2 months.

Treatment includes resting, staying hydrated, and taking OTC pain relievers. Some people may require medications for secondary infections.

8. Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a lung infection that causes inflammation of the air sacs. In the U.S., it is “a leading cause of hospitalization” in both adults and children.

Pneumonia symptoms, which range in severity, include:

• chest pain
• chills
• coughing up phlegm
• diarrhea
• difficulty breathing
• fatigue
• fever
• nausea
• stomach pain
• vomiting

Pneumonia can be life-threatening for older adults, children, and those who have a compromised immune system. People who have symptoms should always speak with a doctor.

Treatment includes taking medication, resting, and other home remedies. Some people may require hospitalization.

9. Gallbladder inflammation

Gallbladder inflammation, or cholecystitis, is swelling of the gallbladder, which is a pear-shaped organ in the abdomen.

Gallstones are the most common cause of gallbladder inflammation. According to a 2012 study in the journal Gut and Liver, around 10–15 percent of adults will develop gallstones. Other causes include tumors and infections.

Cholecystitis symptoms, which often get worse after eating large or fatty meals, include:

• abdominal pain and tenderness, usually in the upper right or center
• fever or chills
• nausea
• pain in the back or right shoulder

If left untreated, gallbladder inflammation can cause severe complications. Some treatment options include hospitalization, fasting, intravenous fluids, and taking pain relievers. Surgery may be necessary to remove the gallstones or the entire gallbladder.

10. Pelvic inflammatory disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) occurs when sexually transmitted bacteria, including chlamydia or gonorrhea, spread to the fallopian tubes, uterus, or ovaries.

Research from 2017, which appeared in Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, suggests that 4. 4 percent of sexually experienced females of reproductive age have PID.

PID does not always cause symptoms. Sometimes, people only realize that they have the condition when they experience difficulty getting pregnant.

If symptoms do occur, they include:

• bleeding between periods
• bleeding during or after sex
• chills
• difficult or painful urination
• fever
• heavy and foul-smelling vaginal discharge
• pain in the lower abdomen and pelvis

Doctors usually prescribe antibiotics to people with PID. Sexual partners also require treatment.

Without treatment, the infection can cause chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility.

11. Appendicitis

Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix, which is a piece of tissue attached to the large intestine.

Appendicitis affects 1 in 1,000 people in the U.S., usually those aged 10–30 years old.

The condition causes pain on the lower right-hand side of the abdomen. This tends to get worse over time and may occur alongside:

• constipation
• diarrhea
• fever or chills
• loss of appetite
• nausea

Surgery is usually necessary to remove the appendix.

12. Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis occurs when diverticula, which are bulging pouches that form in the gut’s lining, develop an infection or inflammation.

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, these pouches may form in 35 percent of U.S. adults aged 50 and below, and in 58 percent of all people over the age of 60. However, most cases do not progress to diverticulitis.

Symptoms include:

• constipation or diarrhea
• fever or chills
• nausea
• stomach pain, which may be severe and persistent
• vomiting

Mild cases typically clear up by taking antibiotics, resting, and making dietary changes. Severe cases may require surgical intervention.

Other causes

Stomach pain and chills may have other less common symptoms, including:

• cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder that causes organ damage
• epididymitis, or inflammation of the epididymis, which is a coiled tube at the back of the testicles
• heart attack, but only in rare cases
• leukemia, a cancer of the blood and bone marrow
• malaria, an infectious disease that mosquitoes carry
• meningitis, or inflammation of membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord
• pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas
• peritonitis, or inflammation of the peritoneum tissue in the abdomen
• scarlet fever, a bacterial illness
• shingles, a viral infection similar to chickenpox
• tuberculosis, a bacterial infection of the lungs
• Weil’s disease, a bacterial infection often transmitted by rodents
• yellow fever, an infection that mosquitoes carry

Share on PinterestA person experiencing stomach pain and chills with a fever should speak to a doctor.

See a doctor if stomach pain and chills persist for more than a few days, or if they occur alongside:

• diarrhea or vomiting
• fever
• muscle aches and pains
• fatigue with no obvious cause

People who experience any of the following alongside stomach pain and chills require immediate medical attention:

• breathing difficulties
• chest pain
• fever of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher
• loss of consciousness
• neck stiffness
• severe headache
• severe vomiting or diarrhea
• stomach pain that radiates to the shoulder
• vision problems
• weakness

Many cases of chills and stomach pain result from a bacterial or viral infection.

Try the following to prevent infection:

• Wash the hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based sanitizer.
• Maintain a distance from people with infectious illnesses.
• Avoid touching the eyes or face with unclean hands.
• Disinfect kitchen and bathroom surfaces frequently and clean toys, doorknobs, and remote controls regularly.
• Consider vaccinations where possible, such as those against some forms of pneumonia and gastroenteritis.
• Do not share utensils, towels, or other personal items.
• Take precautions when traveling to other countries to avoid food-borne illness.
• When abroad, drink bottled water, avoid ice cubes, and do not eat raw or peeled vegetables or fruits.
• Practice hygienic food storage and preparation techniques in the home.
• Do not eat raw eggs.

Other methods of prevention and risk reduction include:

• Drinking plenty of water and other fluids every day.
• Exercising regularly.
• Eating a balanced diet, with an emphasis on fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, pulses, lean meats, fish, nuts, and seeds.
• Using condoms during sexual activities.
• Discussing any health concerns with a healthcare professional.

The outlook for a person with stomach pain and chills depends on the cause of the symptoms. They are not usually a cause for concern if they result from the common cold, stomach flu, or another easily treatable infection.

Most of these conditions will clear up within a few days with home remedies, medications, or a combination of both.

However, these symptoms could also suggest a more serious condition, such as pneumonia or appendicitis, but this is rarer. People who experience severe or persistent stomach pain and chills should see their doctor.

Read the article in Spanish.

Norovirus

Category: Infections and Parasites

Topic: Viral Infections

Noroviruses are a group of viruses that can cause gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intestines) with diarrhoea, stomach pain and vomiting. Common names used for gastroenteritis due to Norovirus are ‘gastric flu’ or ‘stomach flu’, ‘winter vomiting’ and ‘viral gastro’.

Noroviruses are found in the faeces or vomit of infected people. People can become infected with the virus in several ways, including:

• eating food or drinking liquids that are contaminated with Norovirus
• touching surfaces or objects contaminated with Norovirus, and then placing their hand in their mouth
• small airborne particles from projectile vomiting
• having direct contact with another person who is infected and showing symptoms (for example, when caring for someone with illness, or sharing foods or eating utensils with someone who is ill).

Anyone can become infected with these viruses. There are many different strains of Norovirus, which makes it difficult for a person’s body to develop long-lasting immunity.

Norovirus illness can recur throughout a person’s lifetime.

People working in day-care centres or nursing homes should pay special attention to children or residents who have Norovirus illness. This virus is very contagious and can spread rapidly throughout such environments.

Signs and Symptoms: 

Symptoms of Norovirus illness usually begin about 24 to 48 hours after ingestion of the virus, but they can appear as early as 12 hours after exposure.

The symptoms of norovirus illness usually include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and some stomach cramping. Sometimes people also have a low-grade fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and a general sense of tiredness. The illness often begins suddenly and the infected person may feel very sick. The illness is usually brief, with symptoms lasting only about 1 or 2 days, but can last longer. In general, children experience more vomiting than adults.

Treatment: 

Currently, there is no antiviral medication that works against norovirus and there is no vaccine to prevent infection. Norovirus infection cannot be treated with antibiotics. This is because antibiotics work to fight bacteria and not viruses.

Norovirus illness is usually brief in healthy individuals. When people are ill with vomiting and diarrhoea, they should rest and drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Dehydration is the most serious health effect that can result from Norovirus infection, and it is a particular concern in young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.

Prevention: 

Noroviruses are very contagious and can spread easily from person to person. Both faeces and vomit are infectious. Particular care should be taken with young children in nappies who may have diarrhoea.

People infected with Norovirus are contagious from the moment they begin feeling ill. If your job involves handling food or beverages or you are a childcare or health care worker you must not return to work until 48 hours after recovery (i.e. until 48 hours after you last vomited or 48 hours after your bowel motions return to normal), as this is generally regarded as the period when people are infectious.

The virus can be present in faeces at low levels for several weeks after recovery, so it is important for people to continue to use good handwashing and other hygienic practices.

People infected with Norovirus should not prepare food while they have symptoms and for 48 hours after they recover from their illness. Food that may have been contaminated by an ill person should be disposed of properly.

You can decrease your chance of coming in contact with noroviruses by following these preventive steps:

• frequently wash your hands, especially after toilet visits, changing nappies and before eating or preparing food
• carefully wash fruits and vegetables, and steam oysters before eating them
• flush or discard any vomit or faeces in the toilet and make sure that the surrounding area is kept clean
• use a detergent and warm water to wipe down the area where vomit was present so that no evidence of vomit is visible
• thoroughly clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces immediately after an episode of illness using detergent and water followed by a bleach-based household cleaner
• immediately remove and wash clothing or linens that may be contaminated with virus (use a hot cycle in the washing machine).

Health outcome: 

Anyone can become infected with these viruses. There are many different strains of Norovirus, which makes it difficult for a person’s body to develop long-lasting immunity. In addition, because of differences in genetic factors, some people are more likely to become infected and develop more severe illness than others.

Norovirus disease is usually not serious, although people may feel very sick and vomit many times a day. Most people get better within 1 or 2 days, and they have no long-term health effects related to their illness.

Sometimes people are unable to drink enough liquids to replace the liquids they lost because of vomiting and diarrhoea. These people can become dehydrated and may need special medical attention. This problem with dehydration is usually only seen among the very young, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. There is no evidence to suggest that an infected person can become a long-term carrier of Norovirus.

Other resources: 

• Clean Up for Gastroenteritis Outbreak Prevention (PDF 716KB)

Help and assistance: 

For further information, please contact your local doctor, community health centre or nearest public health unit, or contact the Queensland Health information line 13HEALTH (13 432584).

If you are in an emergency situation, call 000

Abdominal pain and diarrhea | What to do with pain in the stomach and diarrhea

Author, editor and medical expert – Klimovich Elina Valerievna.

Editor and medical expert – Harutyunyan Mariam Harutyunovna.

Number of views: 2,495,906

Last updated: 002 Contents

• Causes of abdominal pain and diarrhea
• Some diseases that cause diarrhea and stomach pain
• When you need to see a doctor urgently
• What to do if your stomach hurts and you have diarrhea

Diarrhea is one of the most common pathological symptoms occurring both in isolation and in combination with other manifestations of various diseases ² . About 1.7 billion cases are registered annually in the world ² . Most often they are associated with infections and poisonings ² , in which diarrhea usually accompanies abdominal pain and manifestations of intoxication. However, these same symptoms occur in other diseases.

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Causes of abdominal pain and diarrhea

These symptoms most often accompany diseases of the abdominal organs: stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder and bile ducts, pancreas, internal genital organs and bladder. The appearance of pain is provoked by spasms or stretching of the walls of hollow organs (intestines, stomach, gallbladder), stretching of the outer shell of the liver and pancreas, circulatory disorders and inflammation of the organs themselves, the membrane of the abdominal cavity covering them.

Physiological reasons for loose stools can be:

• increased secretion of fluid into the intestinal cavity due to its irritation, for example, bacterial toxins during food poisoning,
• accumulation in the small and large intestines of substances that attract water, as happens, in particular, with lactose intolerance;
• inflammation of the intestine, accompanied by the release of various fluids into it, for example, mucus, pus in ulcerative colitis;
• increased intestinal peristalsis, e. g. in irritable bowel syndrome,
• retarded motility, such as in scleroderma.

Diarrhea and abdominal pain often co-occur due to common causes. In particular, an increase in the volume of intestinal contents and the accumulation of gases that stretch the walls of the intestine lead to the appearance of pain. Inflammation, spasms, in turn, increase the symptoms of the disease.

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Some diseases that cause diarrhea and stomach pain

Diarrhea is divided into acute and chronic. Acute lasts up to 2 weeks ¹ . If liquid feces are observed for more than 4 weeks, they speak of a chronic form ² . Both options can be with the same diseases.

1. Intestinal infections and toxic infections

Acute diarrhea is most often of an infectious nature ¹ occurs as a result of pathogenic microorganisms or their toxins entering the body through the use of contaminated water and food, neglect of personal hygiene ¹ .

¹ :

• bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Shigella, Vibrios, Campylobacter, Yersinia;
• viruses, for example enteroviruses, rotaviruses or adenoviruses;
• various protozoa: amoeba dysentery, giardia, etc.

Loose stools can be from several to 30-40 times a day ¹ , often accompanied by cramping pain in the abdominal cavity, fever, weakness. The appearance of nausea, vomiting may be associated with damage to the stomach and small intestine, that is, with the development of gastroenteritis ¹ .

Nausea, weakness, abdominal pain and diarrhea, mucus and blood in the feces, false urge to defecate are more common with colitis, that is, inflammation of the colon ¹ .

Intestinal infections, especially in children, the elderly, are dangerous due to dehydration ¹ . Therefore, with frequent vomiting, the appearance of liquid feces in the stool, you need to contact an infectious disease specialist.

2. Traveler’s diarrhea

Most often it is encountered by tourists visiting Central and West Africa, India. What to do: Diarrhea and abdominal pain can be associated with changes in diet, water quality, acclimatization, jet lag, and other stresses. The causative agents of the infection are some strains of E. coli ¹ . Violation of the chair occurs upon arrival or in the first two days of stay in a new country, usually happens up to 3 times a day, is accompanied by cramping pain in the abdominal cavity, lasts an average of no more than a week ¹ , you can cope with it yourself. If symptoms persist for longer, a doctor’s consultation and examination are necessary.

3. Food allergy

More common intolerance to cow’s milk and products from it, as well as eggs, nuts, fish, cereals, strawberries, chocolate, coffee, tomatoes, etc. ² . Therefore, if every time after eating a particular product, loose stools appear and the stomach starts to hurt, then perhaps we are talking about an allergy.

Allergic stool disorders are associated with the action of inflammatory mediators ² . They cause swelling of the intestinal walls, increase the secretion of fluid into the intestinal cavity and cause its spasms.

Exclusion of allergenic foods from the diet contributes to the normalization of the condition. Their repeated inclusion in the diet leads to liquefaction of feces.

4. Lactase deficiency and celiac disease

Lactase deficiency is a congenital or acquired deficiency of the enzyme lactase, which breaks down cow’s milk protein, or lactose. Its classic manifestations are pain, bloating and loud rumbling in the abdominal cavity that occur after the consumption of dairy products, preceding the release of liquid stools with an unpleasant sour odor.

What to do for stomach pain and diarrhea in lactose intolerance? Of course, exclude milk and products in the manufacture of which it is used.

Celiac disease – intolerance to cereal protein, gluten. Wheat and rye contain the most gluten, so discomfort in the abdominal cavity often occurs after eating flour products. The exclusion of cereals from the diet contributes to the normalization of the condition.

5. Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder ² . The reason for its development is still unclear. It is believed that emotional factors, hormonal changes, nutrition, individual characteristics of intestinal motility play a certain role.

IBS often occurs with alternating constipation with loose stools. Diarrhea occurs mainly in the morning after breakfast, never bothers at night ² . It is accompanied by pulling pain in the lower half of the abdominal cavity, the release of a small amount of feces in the form of gruel. In some patients, the feces are dense, lumpy at the beginning of defecation, and then mushy or even watery. To restore the normal excretion of feces, it is necessary, first of all, to normalize the psychological state and hormonal levels.

6. Chronic enteritis

Chronic enteritis, or long-term inflammation of the small intestine, can develop as a result of malnutrition, autoimmune diseases, parasitic infections, long-term uncontrolled use of certain drugs and other factors.

The disease is accompanied not only by a violation of the stool, but also by a change in the digestion of food, the assimilation of nutrients. Diarrhea occurs 1-3 times a day ^1.3 . There are many stools, they are watery, frothy. Pain sensations are localized mainly in the area on the left above the navel, are dull in nature, accompanied by rumbling and transfusion in the intestines. Prolonged indigestion leads to weight loss, deterioration of the skin, hair and nails, and the appearance of signs of hypovitaminosis. In severe cases, dehydration occurs, the work of all digestive organs and the endocrine system is disrupted. Treatment depends on the cause of the disease, including taking antidiarrheal drugs.

7.

Chronic colitis

Chronic colitis, or inflammation of the colon, also causes abdominal discomfort. Symptoms of exacerbation of the disease – aching pain in the lateral sections and lower abdomen, diarrhea 3-10 times a day ^1.3 . Unlike enteritis, the amount of feces is not increased, they look like gruel. Typical false urge to defecate with the release of a small amount of feces or just mucus.

If inflammation of the colon is accompanied by the formation of ulcers on its walls, as is the case with ulcerative colitis, intestinal spasms become severe, pus and blood appear in the stool, body temperature rises, weight loss is noted ^1.2 .

8. Other diseases

Violation of the stool, discomfort in the abdominal cavity can be associated not only with intestinal problems.

Diarrhea, heaviness in the left side are sometimes a sign of chronic pancreatitis ^1.3 . The cause of loose stools in this case is indigestion, which occurs due to a lack of pancreatic enzymes. Fecal masses have a fetid putrid odor, contain undigested food residues and fat.

Stomach pain and chronic diarrhea are sometimes signs of stomach cancer ³ . The disease is accompanied by a decrease in gastric secretion and acidity, which causes a rapid evacuation of the food eaten into the small intestine, the development of intestinal dysbacteriosis with its inherent symptom of diarrhea. Colon cancer can also lead to loose stools.

There are many reasons for the appearance of pain in the intestines and diarrhea, therefore, when they appear, you should consult a doctor and undergo an examination. Only a doctor can establish the true cause of violations, prescribe adequate treatment.

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When to see a doctor urgently

Abdominal pain with diarrhea should always be a concern. Short-term disturbance of the stool occurs in many acute diseases requiring surgical care ³ , for example, in the first stage of intestinal obstruction, biliary colic or appendicitis ³ .

You need to see a doctor urgently if:

• you have severe stomach pain and diarrhea;
• fever, chills appeared, the general condition continues to deteriorate;
• Pain is accompanied by tension in the anterior abdominal wall;
• vomiting is frequent, it does not bring relief;
• feces contain red blood or are black;
• Loss of liquid with liquid fecal masses cannot be compensated by the stool on its own due to incessant vomiting and diarrhea, the stomach hurts and it is not clear what to do;
• there are signs of dehydration: dry mucous membranes and plaque on the tongue, sunken eyes, pallor and grayish skin tone, confusion, lack of urination;
• diarrhea, pain in the abdominal cavity occurred in a small child, a pregnant woman, an elderly or debilitated person.

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What to do if you have a stomach ache and diarrhea

In case of acute diarrhea and pain in the abdominal cavity, qualified medical assistance is needed, so you need to call a doctor at home.

What to do before the consultation ^1.2 :

• stop eating,
• drink still mineral water,
• keep physical peace.

What not to do if you have a stomach ache and diarrhea:

• take medications, including antibiotics, painkillers, antispasmodics, antidiarrheals – they can “blur” the picture of the disease and make it difficult to diagnose;
• apply a heating pad to the sore spot – heat can contribute to the development of infection and inflammation;

Treatment of diarrhea includes prevention and control of dehydration, diet therapy and stool normalization.

1. Rehydration, or replenishment of the water-salt balance

To restore the water and electrolyte balance, it is not enough to use ordinary drinking water. Together with loose stools, the body loses a large amount of minerals. Therefore, for drinking it is better to use special solutions or mineral water of a high degree of mineralization without gas ^{1. 2} .

2. Diet

Meals should be fractional, but high in calories, so as not to overload the digestive system and compensate for the loss of nutrients.

From the diet it is necessary to exclude flour products from yeast dough, dairy products, fresh vegetables and fruits, eggs, legumes, coffee, carbonated drinks, kvass ¹ . Spicy, fatty, fried, spicy dishes, canned food, smoked meats, marinades are not recommended ¹ .

3. Drug therapy

All medicines are prescribed by a doctor, based on the diagnosis and characteristics of the course of the disease. These can be antibiotics, enterosorbents, probiotics, prebiotics, eubiotics, antidiarrheals ^1.2 . As the last component, IMODIUM® Express can be recommended.

The active substance of IMODIUM® Express – loperamide ⁴ – can act for 4-6 hours, can reduce intestinal peristalsis, slow down the movement of its contents, promote the absorption of water and electrolytes ⁵ . This drug is used in the treatment of acute, chronic diarrhea of ​​various origins in adults and children over 6 years of age ⁴ .

The information in this article is for reference only and does not replace professional medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment, contact a qualified specialist.

“Imodium is contraindicated for use in children under 6 years of age.”

causes, what to do, how to treat

Causes of stomach pain

Stomach pain and diarrhea are caused by different factors. The disease depends on the frequency and intensity of pain, on their nature. Diarrhea is associated with a lack of essential digestive enzymes in the body

Diagnosis of causes of pain

To determine the diagnosis, patients are referred for testing. We advise you to use the diagnostic services of the private medical clinic “KDS Clinic”. Specialists will conduct an initial consultation and examinations that will help diagnose diseases in the early stages. All examinations are carried out on modern equipment. Clinic experts are ready to help you at any time

Stomach pain symptoms

Severe stomach pain is considered a clear sign that you have problems with your gastrointestinal tract. In addition to diarrhea, patients have accompanying symptoms:

1. Gastrointestinal tract disorder

   Many people develop diarrhea, in the people – diarrhea, which indicates a violation of digestion. Diarrhea is caused by various factors. Intestinal upset continues several times a day. If this process lasts more than two days, then the patient has chronic diarrhea.

2. Nausea and vomiting

   Sometimes these symptoms are accompanied by bloody discharge. The patient feels cutting sharp pains in the stomach area

3. Fever

   When an infection affects the body, patients experience a fever. This indicates a serious infectious pathology

4. Lack of appetite

   This symptom is caused by gastritis and ulcers. With such diagnoses, the patient feels a cutting pain in the stomach

5. Bad breath

   This symptom indicates problems with the liver. It is necessary to enter a plentiful drink. A nutritionist will prescribe an individual diet for you to stabilize your body

6. Abdominal bloating or flatulence

   Indicates gastrointestinal problems

What else do severe cutting pains in the stomach indicate?

Pain in the stomach indicates a malfunction of the esophagus. Among them: liver disease, hepatitis, cholelithiasis, cholecystitis, inflammation of the gallbladder. If the localization of pain cannot be determined, then the symptoms are associated with neoplasms.

When the first complaints appear, we advise you to consult a gastroenterologist. The doctor will help to cure the body as quickly as possible. An accurate diagnosis is established after passing examinations and passing tests. Self-diagnosis at home is not possible.

Causes of abdominal pain and diarrhea

Experts categorize a number of underlying causes that cause abdominal pain and diarrhea.

1. Gastritis

   Diarrhea and cutting pains in the stomach are observed on an empty stomach or after eating, and patients also suffer from vomiting and heartburn. These symptoms are indicative of gastritis. If you start this process and do not go to the clinic on time, then gastritis can turn into a duodenal ulcer. They qualify gastritis with low acidity and gastritis with high acidity. The disease is established only with the help of tests and diagnostic examinations. Therefore, in order to avoid pain and deterioration, contact a gastroenterologist who will prescribe the right treatment for you and select a diet. Endoscopist and gastroenterologist will help to establish an accurate diagnosis

2. Low immunity

   When immunity is weakened, a person begins to have problems with the stomach and other body systems. These processes occur most often in spring and autumn, when the immune system is weakened, and the body is susceptible to colds and diseases. Patients suffer from avitaminosis. An immunocompromised patient needs regular visits to an immunologist. He will prescribe treatment, a suitable diet that will improve the gastrointestinal tract. Patients are prescribed homeopathic treatment. It is effective

3. Eating disorders

   Stomach pain is caused by the food you eat. At the first manifestations of pain syndromes, you need to change your menu. It is necessary to pay attention to the relationship of pain with food intake and the nature of the food taken. You should add fruits and vegetables, meat and fish, as well as foods rich in vitamins and minerals to your diet. You will save your stomach from diseases and strengthen the whole body.

4. Duodenal ulcer

   This is one of the possible causes of diarrhea, flatulence and stomach pain. This disease appears with malnutrition, with the use of alcohol, fried, fatty and starchy foods. Unpleasant sensations and heartburn during an ulcer occur some time after eating. Pain syndrome occurs no later than one and a half hours after eating

5. Disorders of the gastrointestinal tract

   In this condition, a person experiences severe pain. To understand all the possible causes, it is necessary to establish the intensity of pain in the stomach, their frequency and nature. These data will help to establish accurate diagnoses and exclude other diseases

6. Emotional trauma and stress

   All emotional stress negatively affects the functionality of other organs, and the stomach is no exception. Many people get upset and have diarrhea from stress and anxiety

7. Excessive physical activity

   Strong physical activity, overwork and lack of proper sleep will immediately affect the gastrointestinal tract, complexion and other organs

8. Cholecystitis

   Cutting pain in the right hypochondrium indicates inflammation of the gallbladder

Diagnosis of stomach pain and diarrhea

An examination is individually selected for each patient.