What are the main causes of stomach ache, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue. How can these symptoms be treated effectively. What complications may arise from these conditions. When should you seek medical attention for these symptoms.

Gastroenteritis: The Common Culprit Behind Stomach Discomfort

Gastroenteritis, often referred to as stomach flu, is a prevalent intestinal infection that can cause a constellation of symptoms including stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue. This condition is typically caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites.

Viral gastroenteritis, the second most common illness in the United States, is often contracted through the consumption of contaminated food or water. The most frequent viral culprits are norovirus and rotavirus.

Bacterial gastroenteritis can be caused by various pathogens, including:

• Salmonella
• Shigella
• Escherichia coli (E. coli)
• Clostridioides difficile
• Campylobacter

How long does gastroenteritis typically last? In most cases, viral gastroenteritis resolves within a few days to a week. However, bacterial infections may persist longer and might require antibiotic treatment.

Diverticulitis: When Intestinal Pouches Become Inflamed

Diverticulitis is a condition characterized by the inflammation or infection of small pouches (diverticula) that form in the wall of the colon. This condition primarily affects older adults and is often associated with a low-fiber diet.

Symptoms of diverticulitis include:

• Pain in the lower left abdomen
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Fever
• Changes in urination patterns

How is diverticulitis treated? Treatment typically involves antibiotics, a liquid diet, and rest. In severe cases, hospitalization or surgery may be necessary.

Celiac Disease: When Gluten Becomes the Enemy

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by the consumption of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. This condition affects approximately 2 million people in the United States, though many remain undiagnosed.

Symptoms of celiac disease can vary widely but often include:

• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Chronic diarrhea or constipation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Bloating and gas
• Fatigue and weakness
• Unexplained weight loss
• Anemia

How is celiac disease managed? The primary treatment for celiac disease is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet. This allows the intestinal lining to heal and prevents further damage.

COVID-19: A New Player in Gastrointestinal Distress

While primarily known as a respiratory illness, COVID-19 can also cause gastrointestinal symptoms in some individuals. These may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, often accompanied by fatigue and other systemic symptoms.

Other common symptoms of COVID-19 include:

• Fever or chills
• Cough and shortness of breath
• Loss of taste or smell
• Headache and body aches
• Sore throat

When should you seek medical attention for suspected COVID-19? If you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, or confusion, seek immediate medical care.

Medication Side Effects: An Often Overlooked Cause

Many medications can cause gastrointestinal side effects, including stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms may be accompanied by fatigue or other systemic effects.

Common medications that may cause gastrointestinal side effects include:

• Antibiotics
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Some antidepressants
• Chemotherapy drugs
• Metformin (used to treat diabetes)

How can medication-induced gastrointestinal symptoms be managed? Strategies may include taking the medication with food, adjusting the dosage, or switching to an alternative medication under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Endometriosis: A Hidden Cause of Abdominal Pain

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. While primarily associated with pelvic pain, it can also cause gastrointestinal symptoms.

Symptoms of endometriosis may include:

• Severe menstrual cramps
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Pain during intercourse
• Gastrointestinal issues (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation)
• Fatigue
• Infertility

How is endometriosis diagnosed and treated? Diagnosis often requires laparoscopic surgery. Treatment options include hormonal therapies, pain management, and in some cases, surgical intervention.

Bowel Obstruction: A Serious Gastrointestinal Emergency

A bowel obstruction occurs when there is a partial or complete blockage in the small or large intestine. This condition can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Symptoms of bowel obstruction include:

• Severe abdominal pain and cramping
• Nausea and vomiting
• Inability to pass gas or stool
• Abdominal swelling
• Loss of appetite

What causes bowel obstruction? Common causes include adhesions from previous surgeries, hernias, tumors, and inflammatory bowel diseases.

Treatment Options for Bowel Obstruction

Treatment for bowel obstruction depends on the cause and severity of the blockage. Options may include:

1. Nasogastric tube insertion to relieve pressure
2. Intravenous fluids and electrolyte replacement
3. Antibiotics if infection is present
4. Surgery to remove the obstruction or repair the intestine

When should you seek emergency care for suspected bowel obstruction? If you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, and an inability to pass gas or stool, seek immediate medical attention.

Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the Pancreas

Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, an organ that plays a crucial role in digestion and blood sugar regulation. This condition can be acute or chronic and may cause severe abdominal pain along with other gastrointestinal symptoms.

Symptoms of pancreatitis include:

• Severe upper abdominal pain that may radiate to the back
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Rapid pulse
• Tenderness when touching the abdomen

What are the main causes of pancreatitis? The most common causes are gallstones and excessive alcohol consumption. Other causes include certain medications, high triglyceride levels, and genetic factors.

Diagnosing and Treating Pancreatitis

Diagnosis of pancreatitis typically involves blood tests, imaging studies (such as CT scans or ultrasound), and sometimes more specialized tests. Treatment depends on the severity and may include:

1. Fasting to allow the pancreas to rest
2. Intravenous fluids
3. Pain management
4. Nutritional support
5. Treatment of underlying causes (e.g., gallstone removal)

How can pancreatitis be prevented? Limiting alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy diet, and managing underlying conditions like high triglycerides can help reduce the risk of pancreatitis.

Appendicitis: A Common Cause of Abdominal Emergency

Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the colon. This condition can quickly become serious if left untreated, potentially leading to a rupture of the appendix.

Symptoms of appendicitis often include:

• Pain that begins near the navel and moves to the lower right abdomen
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Low-grade fever
• Abdominal swelling

How is appendicitis diagnosed and treated? Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies. The standard treatment is surgical removal of the appendix (appendectomy).

Complications of Untreated Appendicitis

If left untreated, appendicitis can lead to serious complications, including:

1. Peritonitis (inflammation of the abdominal lining)
2. Abscess formation
3. Sepsis (a life-threatening systemic infection)

When should you seek medical attention for suspected appendicitis? If you experience sudden, severe abdominal pain, especially if accompanied by fever and vomiting, seek immediate medical care.

Iron Poisoning: An Overlooked Cause of Gastrointestinal Distress

Iron poisoning occurs when excessive amounts of iron accumulate in the body, often due to accidental ingestion of iron supplements. This condition can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms and may be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Symptoms of iron poisoning may include:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting (sometimes with blood)
• Diarrhea
• Rapid breathing
• Dehydration
• Lethargy or irritability

How is iron poisoning treated? Treatment typically involves supportive care, including intravenous fluids and medications to manage symptoms. In severe cases, chelation therapy may be necessary to remove excess iron from the body.

Preventing Iron Poisoning

To prevent iron poisoning, consider the following precautions:

1. Keep iron supplements and medications out of reach of children
2. Never exceed the recommended dosage of iron supplements
3. Avoid taking multiple supplements containing iron without medical supervision
4. Be aware of the iron content in your multivitamins

When should you seek emergency care for suspected iron poisoning? If you suspect iron poisoning, especially in a child, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center.

Anaphylaxis: A Severe Allergic Reaction with Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can affect multiple body systems, including the gastrointestinal tract. While commonly associated with respiratory symptoms, anaphylaxis can also cause abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Common triggers of anaphylaxis include:

• Foods (e.g., peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish)
• Medications
• Insect stings
• Latex

How is anaphylaxis treated? The primary treatment for anaphylaxis is an immediate injection of epinephrine, followed by emergency medical care.

Recognizing Anaphylaxis

Symptoms of anaphylaxis can develop rapidly and may include:

1. Difficulty breathing or wheezing
2. Swelling of the throat or tongue
3. Hives or widespread rash
4. Dizziness or fainting
5. Rapid, weak pulse
6. Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)

When should you use an epinephrine auto-injector? If you or someone you’re with shows signs of anaphylaxis, use the epinephrine auto-injector immediately and call emergency services.

Understanding the various causes of stomach ache, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. While many cases are due to common and relatively benign conditions like gastroenteritis, some may signal more serious underlying issues. It’s important to pay attention to the severity and duration of symptoms, as well as any additional warning signs that may indicate a need for immediate medical attention.

If you experience persistent or severe gastrointestinal symptoms, particularly if accompanied by fever, bloody stools, or signs of dehydration, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider. They can perform the necessary examinations and tests to determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

Remember, early diagnosis and treatment can often prevent complications and lead to faster recovery. By staying informed about potential causes and being attentive to your body’s signals, you can take proactive steps to maintain your digestive health and overall well-being.

Causes of stomach pain, diarrhea, and nausea

Vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and stomach pain commonly occur together and may be caused by many illnesses. Some are relatively harmless, while others require prompt treatment.

Below, the article explains 11 causes of vomiting and diarrhea with stomach pain. It also lists the treatments and complications that may occur.

Gastroenteritis, also known as stomach flu, is a very common intestinal infection. It typically occurs due to a virus, bacteria, or parasite.

The symptoms can include:

• stomach pain or cramping
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• a low-grade fever
• a headache
• fatigue

Viral gastroenteritis is the second most common illness in the United States and often stems from consuming food or water containing viral particles. The most common causes are norovirus and rotavirus.

Bacteria that can cause bacterial gastroenteritis include:

• salmonella
• shigella
• escherichia coli (E-coli)
• clostridioides difficile
• campylobacter

Learn more about food poisoning and gastroenteritis.

Diverticulosis involves pouches forming in the wall of the colon. Diverticulitis is the medical name for the infection and inflammation of these pouches.

Diverticulitis typically causes pain in the lower left part of the abdomen. Other symptoms may include:

• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• bloody bowel movements
• frequent or painful urination
• a fever

The likelihood of developing diverticulosis increases with age. Researchers currently believe that the main cause is having a diet with low amounts of fiber.

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the ingestion of gluten causes the immune system to attack its own cells. This can cause permanent damage to the small intestine.

Symptoms of celiac disease may include:

• stomach cramps
• diarrhea
• nausea
• vomiting
• bloating
• malnutrition
• weight loss
• headaches
• weakness
• fatigue
• joint pain
• bruising easily

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases estimates (NIDDK) that about 2 million people in the U. S. have celiac disease, though many may be unaware of it.

COVID-19 is an illness that predominately affects the respiratory system. The cause is the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2.

People with COVID-19 may experience a wide range of symptoms, including:

• a cough
• shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• new loss of taste or smell
• congestion or a runny nose
• a sore throat
• a headache
• a fever
• chills
• fatigue
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• muscle or body aches

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms may appear 2–14 days after exposure to the virus.

For more advice on COVID-19 prevention and treatment, visit our coronavirus hub.

Was this helpful?

Side effects or adverse events are unwanted reactions to a medication.

Some common side effects include:

• an upset stomach
• dry mouth
• drowsiness
• insomnia
• diarrhea
• vomiting

Endometriosis involves cells similar to those of the uterine lining growing elsewhere in the body.

Symptoms of endometriosis may include:

• stomach cramps
• lower back and pelvic pain
• heavy periods
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• constipation
• blood in urine or stools
• bloating
• fatigue
• pain during intercourse
• spotting between periods

A bowel obstruction involves the partial or full blockage of the small or large intestine. The blocked part swells with food, fluids, and gas, triggering symptoms such as:

• stomach cramping
• stomach pain
• an inability to pass gas
• abdominal swelling
• appetite loss
• nausea
• vomiting
• severe constipation or diarrhea

Learn about the many causes of bowel obstruction.

Pancreatitis is the medical term for acute inflammation of the pancreas. The condition usually begins with a sudden onset of severe stomach pain that radiates to the back.

The pain usually worsens when the person:

• takes deep breaths
• coughs
• moves around

Additional symptoms may include:

• a loss of appetite
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• a fever
• sweating
• jaundice, which is the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes

Appendicitis is infection and inflammation of the appendix.

The appendix is a small pouch of tissue that sits inside the colon. It is located in the lower right section of the abdomen.

In addition to diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, symptoms of appendicitis may include:

• loss of appetite
• abdominal pain
• fatigue
• frequent urination

In about 40% of cases, a person will also experience a fever.

Iron poisoning occurs when too much iron builds up in the body. This may result from the person taking too many supplements that contain iron.

Symptoms of iron poisoning may include:

• abdominal pain
• irritability
• drowsiness
• diarrhea
• vomiting, sometimes with blood
• rapid breathing
• seizures
• a loss of consciousness

Anaphylaxis is the medical term for a severe allergic reaction. The trigger may be a medication or food, for example.

Anaphylaxis happens quickly and can be fatal. Symptoms may include:

• a skin rash or hives
• diarrhea
• an itchy throat
• stomach pain
• nausea
• vomiting
• difficulty swallowing
• shortness of breath
• chest pain
• dizziness
• fainting
• a loss of consciousness

Persistent diarrhea and vomiting can lead to complications, such as dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

The complications depend on the cause of the vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.

For example, certain digestive conditions can cause intestinal malabsorption, which prevents the person from getting enough nutrients from food. This can lead to nutritional deficiencies and weight loss.

Untreated pancreatitis, appendicitis, and bowel obstructions can cause serious and potentially life threatening complications such as sepsis, an infection that spreads to the bloodstream and attacks other organs.

The right treatment for vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain depends on the cause of these symptoms.

Many cases of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are nothing to be alarmed by and resolve in a few days. In the meantime, it is important to get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids to prevent and treat dehydration.

If symptoms are severe or persistent, dietary changes, adjustments to current medications, or medical treatments may be necessary. These treatments may include:

• medications for intestinal infections
• pain relief medications
• intravenous, or IV, fluids
• hospitalization or surgery for serious illnesses, such as appendicitis or bowel obstructions

Anyone who experiences sudden, severe stomach pain with or without vomiting and diarrhea may want to seek emergency care. In particular, the following groups may be more at risk for serious complications:

• children
• pregnant people
• older adults

In addition, anyone who experiences vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain, plus one or more of the following symptoms should receive professional care as soon as possible:

• vomiting that is that lasts more than 24 hours
• dehydration symptoms or inability to take in fluids
• bloody vomit
• diarrhea that lasts for more than 2 days
• stomach pain that awakens the person from sleep
• any symptoms that began after an injury or surgery to the stomach
• sudden swelling or bruising of the belly
• symptoms of dehydration, such as dizziness, dry mouth, and lethargy
• jaundice
• pain in the chest, arm, neck, or jaw
• difficulty breathing or swallowing

The following are answers to additional questions about diarrhea and stomach pain.

When should I go to the ER for stomach pain and diarrhea?

Diarrhea can be a symptom of gastritis. However, it does not immediately indicate you need emergency help as long as you are able to stay hydrated. You should see a doctor immediately or go to the hospital if you have had gastritis symptoms for longer than a week, are vomiting blood or black sputum, have blood in your stool, have pain that is getting worse, or you develop a fever.

Are diarrhea and stomach cramps symptoms of Covid 19?

While not common symptoms of Covid-19, digestive symptoms can occur with an infection of the virus. They are usually associated with a less severe form of illness but can also occur with a more severe illness. Covid-19 can be detected in stool.

Why do I have a sudden stomach ache and diarrhea?

Abdominal pain and diarrhea can have many causes. They include infection, food poisoning, overeating, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and more.

Vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain are a common symptom combination. They often result from gastroenteritis and tend to go away in a few days without the need for professional care.

However, see a doctor if symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other worrying symptoms. They can stem from more serious issues that require prompt treatment.

Most causes of vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain are treatable as long as a doctor diagnoses and treat them in time.

Causes of stomach pain, diarrhea, and nausea

Vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and stomach pain commonly occur together and may be caused by many illnesses. Some are relatively harmless, while others require prompt treatment.

Below, the article explains 11 causes of vomiting and diarrhea with stomach pain. It also lists the treatments and complications that may occur.

Gastroenteritis, also known as stomach flu, is a very common intestinal infection. It typically occurs due to a virus, bacteria, or parasite.

The symptoms can include:

• stomach pain or cramping
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• a low-grade fever
• a headache
• fatigue

Viral gastroenteritis is the second most common illness in the United States and often stems from consuming food or water containing viral particles. The most common causes are norovirus and rotavirus.

Bacteria that can cause bacterial gastroenteritis include:

• salmonella
• shigella
• escherichia coli (E-coli)
• clostridioides difficile
• campylobacter

Learn more about food poisoning and gastroenteritis.

Diverticulosis involves pouches forming in the wall of the colon. Diverticulitis is the medical name for the infection and inflammation of these pouches.

Diverticulitis typically causes pain in the lower left part of the abdomen. Other symptoms may include:

• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• bloody bowel movements
• frequent or painful urination
• a fever

The likelihood of developing diverticulosis increases with age. Researchers currently believe that the main cause is having a diet with low amounts of fiber.

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the ingestion of gluten causes the immune system to attack its own cells. This can cause permanent damage to the small intestine.

Symptoms of celiac disease may include:

• stomach cramps
• diarrhea
• nausea
• vomiting
• bloating
• malnutrition
• weight loss
• headaches
• weakness
• fatigue
• joint pain
• bruising easily

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases estimates (NIDDK) that about 2 million people in the U.S. have celiac disease, though many may be unaware of it.

COVID-19 is an illness that predominately affects the respiratory system. The cause is the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2.

People with COVID-19 may experience a wide range of symptoms, including:

• a cough
• shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• new loss of taste or smell
• congestion or a runny nose
• a sore throat
• a headache
• a fever
• chills
• fatigue
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• muscle or body aches

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms may appear 2–14 days after exposure to the virus.

For more advice on COVID-19 prevention and treatment, visit our coronavirus hub.

Was this helpful?

Side effects or adverse events are unwanted reactions to a medication.

Some common side effects include:

• an upset stomach
• dry mouth
• drowsiness
• insomnia
• diarrhea
• vomiting

Endometriosis involves cells similar to those of the uterine lining growing elsewhere in the body.

Symptoms of endometriosis may include:

• stomach cramps
• lower back and pelvic pain
• heavy periods
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• constipation
• blood in urine or stools
• bloating
• fatigue
• pain during intercourse
• spotting between periods

A bowel obstruction involves the partial or full blockage of the small or large intestine. The blocked part swells with food, fluids, and gas, triggering symptoms such as:

• stomach cramping
• stomach pain
• an inability to pass gas
• abdominal swelling
• appetite loss
• nausea
• vomiting
• severe constipation or diarrhea

Learn about the many causes of bowel obstruction.

Pancreatitis is the medical term for acute inflammation of the pancreas. The condition usually begins with a sudden onset of severe stomach pain that radiates to the back.

The pain usually worsens when the person:

• takes deep breaths
• coughs
• moves around

Additional symptoms may include:

• a loss of appetite
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• a fever
• sweating
• jaundice, which is the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes

Appendicitis is infection and inflammation of the appendix.

The appendix is a small pouch of tissue that sits inside the colon. It is located in the lower right section of the abdomen.

In addition to diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, symptoms of appendicitis may include:

• loss of appetite
• abdominal pain
• fatigue
• frequent urination

In about 40% of cases, a person will also experience a fever.

Iron poisoning occurs when too much iron builds up in the body. This may result from the person taking too many supplements that contain iron.

Symptoms of iron poisoning may include:

• abdominal pain
• irritability
• drowsiness
• diarrhea
• vomiting, sometimes with blood
• rapid breathing
• seizures
• a loss of consciousness

Anaphylaxis is the medical term for a severe allergic reaction. The trigger may be a medication or food, for example.

Anaphylaxis happens quickly and can be fatal. Symptoms may include:

• a skin rash or hives
• diarrhea
• an itchy throat
• stomach pain
• nausea
• vomiting
• difficulty swallowing
• shortness of breath
• chest pain
• dizziness
• fainting
• a loss of consciousness

Persistent diarrhea and vomiting can lead to complications, such as dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

The complications depend on the cause of the vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.

For example, certain digestive conditions can cause intestinal malabsorption, which prevents the person from getting enough nutrients from food. This can lead to nutritional deficiencies and weight loss.

Untreated pancreatitis, appendicitis, and bowel obstructions can cause serious and potentially life threatening complications such as sepsis, an infection that spreads to the bloodstream and attacks other organs.

The right treatment for vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain depends on the cause of these symptoms.

Many cases of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are nothing to be alarmed by and resolve in a few days. In the meantime, it is important to get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids to prevent and treat dehydration.

If symptoms are severe or persistent, dietary changes, adjustments to current medications, or medical treatments may be necessary. These treatments may include:

• medications for intestinal infections
• pain relief medications
• intravenous, or IV, fluids
• hospitalization or surgery for serious illnesses, such as appendicitis or bowel obstructions

Anyone who experiences sudden, severe stomach pain with or without vomiting and diarrhea may want to seek emergency care. In particular, the following groups may be more at risk for serious complications:

• children
• pregnant people
• older adults

In addition, anyone who experiences vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain, plus one or more of the following symptoms should receive professional care as soon as possible:

• vomiting that is that lasts more than 24 hours
• dehydration symptoms or inability to take in fluids
• bloody vomit
• diarrhea that lasts for more than 2 days
• stomach pain that awakens the person from sleep
• any symptoms that began after an injury or surgery to the stomach
• sudden swelling or bruising of the belly
• symptoms of dehydration, such as dizziness, dry mouth, and lethargy
• jaundice
• pain in the chest, arm, neck, or jaw
• difficulty breathing or swallowing

The following are answers to additional questions about diarrhea and stomach pain.

When should I go to the ER for stomach pain and diarrhea?

Diarrhea can be a symptom of gastritis. However, it does not immediately indicate you need emergency help as long as you are able to stay hydrated. You should see a doctor immediately or go to the hospital if you have had gastritis symptoms for longer than a week, are vomiting blood or black sputum, have blood in your stool, have pain that is getting worse, or you develop a fever.

Are diarrhea and stomach cramps symptoms of Covid 19?

While not common symptoms of Covid-19, digestive symptoms can occur with an infection of the virus. They are usually associated with a less severe form of illness but can also occur with a more severe illness. Covid-19 can be detected in stool.

Why do I have a sudden stomach ache and diarrhea?

Abdominal pain and diarrhea can have many causes. They include infection, food poisoning, overeating, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and more.

Vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain are a common symptom combination. They often result from gastroenteritis and tend to go away in a few days without the need for professional care.

However, see a doctor if symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other worrying symptoms. They can stem from more serious issues that require prompt treatment.

Most causes of vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain are treatable as long as a doctor diagnoses and treat them in time.

Food poisoning as a cause of diarrhea

Imodium®>Causes of diarrhea>Food poisoning

Where to buy

Author, editor and medical expert – Zavgorodnyaya Ekaterina Aleksandrovna.

Editor and medical expert – Harutyunyan Mariam Harutyunovna.

Number of views: 38 606

Date last updated: 06/25/2023

Average reading time: 1 minute

Contents:

How to Avoid Food Poisoning
How to Treat Food Poisoning Diarrhea

The main cause of diarrhea (loose stools) is eating poor-quality foods.

If you are at home. If you have gastroenteritis, you may mistake it for food poisoning.

If you are abroad . If you experience symptoms of gastroenteritis while traveling, you may think it is “traveler’s diarrhea”.

Diarrhea most often occurs when visiting hot countries or places with poor sanitation.

In addition to ingestion of contaminated food or water, diarrhea can be caused by new types of bacteria or simply by eating very fatty or spicy foods.

Back to Contents

How to Avoid Food Poisoning

To reduce the chances of food poisoning, certain rules must be followed.

For example, make sure food has been cooked properly and wash your hands before eating. If you are abroad, avoid drinking tap water or eating food offered by street vendors.

Back to Contents

How to Treat Diarrhea from Food Poisoning

If you have food poisoning, you need to take action to deal with diarrhea right away. Take IMODIUM ^® Express. The tablet does not need to be taken with water, it dissolves in the mouth in 2-3 seconds and within an hour brings the bowels back to normal. Diarrhea is not a defense mechanism that fights infection (this is the task of the immune system), diarrhea is a symptom of indigestion. If left untreated, diarrhea can lead to dehydration.

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

Find out more about IMODIUM ^® Express

IMODIUM® Express are lozenges that quickly and gently stop diarrhea. They have a pleasant minty taste and dissolve in the mouth in 2-3 seconds. Tablets are presented in 6, 10 or 20 pcs. packaged.

Lozenges will help to cope with diarrhea in an hour and restore the natural rhythm of the digestive system.

Find out what is secretory diarrhea? How to treat it and why does it happen?

25. 06.2023

What are the features of the use of loperamide and its dosage in case of food poisoning?

If this is not poisoning, what is? 7 Reasons Why Your Stomach Hurts and Feels Nauseous

• Health

In the fall, if nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps and malaise appear, we attribute them to poisoning, “stomach” flu or rotavirus. But often this is not the reason at all.

October 29, 2022

Source:

iStockphoto

If at night or in the morning you suddenly feel sick, have diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, we often think that we ate something wrong. If this is excluded, then the thought appears that they have caught an unpleasant virus, which is commonly called “intestinal flu”. Often this infection in one way or another affects the entire family, although the severity of the condition varies.

But it is not always right to attribute all problems to an insidious virus and wait a couple of days for the body to cope with the infection. Sometimes these symptoms – abdominal cramps, nausea with vomiting and diarrhea – can be the first signs of other, more dangerous and serious illnesses. What it could be, Alexandra Yakovleva, a gastroenterologist, hepatologist at the SM-Clinic in St. Petersburg, listed Dr. Peter.

Not only rotavirus – there are a lot of “intestinal flus”

Nausea and abdominal cramps are clear signs of acute viral intestinal infections: rotavirus, enterovirus and others. Such diseases are also known under the informal name “intestinal flu”. However, in addition to the most famous, there are less common, but no less relevant infections. Most often, the body copes with them for 3-5 days, but you need to monitor your condition: if it gets worse, you should call a doctor at home.

However, other infections, such as bacterial or fungal infections, as well as non-infectious digestive problems or certain diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, can also indicate similar symptoms. The most common problems include those that we list below.

Read also

Banal overeating

Abdominal cramps and nausea, and sometimes vomiting with malaise, are a sign that your stomach simply cannot cope with the amount of food eaten. Therefore, try to reduce portions, observe moderation in food. Colic in the intestines can also be added to the discomfort of overeating.

Usually such troubles with digestion occur if among the amount of food eaten there were gas-producing foods: legumes, milk, certain types of fruits and vegetables, sweet lemonades.

Exacerbation of chronic gastritis

A surge in the activity of this disease is not always caused by a viral agent. Often, gastritis makes itself felt against the background of severe stress, if you have experienced a shock, overtired or nervous, forgot to eat on time or were on a diet.

Exacerbation also provokes irrational nutrition: a violation of the diet prescribed by the doctor, an abundance of spicy and salty foods in the diet, smoking, alcohol abuse.

See also

Stagnation of bile

Biliary dyskinesia is a functional disorder. This is a violation of the outflow of bile from the liver through the bile ducts to the gallbladder, and then from it through the common cystic outflow into the duodenum. The disease can develop independently, or may be accompanied by other diseases: gastritis, peptic ulcer, cholecystitis, pancreatitis and others.

In addition to nausea, symptoms of biliary dyskinesia include sharp pain in the right hypochondrium, bloating, bitter taste in the mouth, and lack of appetite.

Inflammation of the pancreas

One of the most common gastroenterological diseases is pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas. It happens in an acute or chronic form (with periodic exacerbations). Symptoms are characteristic of both an attack of acute pancreatitis and an exacerbation of the chronic form of the disease.

In addition to nausea, the disease is accompanied by vomiting and pain in the upper abdomen. Sometimes they are shingles in nature and extremely painful.

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When the intestines grumble

Irritable bowel syndrome is a violation of the basic functions of the organ. With this disease, the pain sensitivity of the intestine increases: even ordinary irritants cause severe cramps, discomfort in the abdomen and impaired stool. The disease often occurs against the background of increased stress, depression, chronic fatigue and anxiety. Other possible causes: violation of the intestinal microflora, hormonal changes and a hereditary factor.

Inflammatory bowel disease

Abdominal pain and nausea can be associated with ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and intestinal obstruction – obstruction of the passage of feces through the intestines due to obstructions – adhesions, volvulus of the intestine or tumor.

In Crohn’s disease, the inflammatory process can affect all parts of the gastrointestinal tract, but most often it affects the large intestine and ileum – the final section of the small intestine.