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

Gastroenteritis: The Most Common Culprit

Gastroenteritis, commonly known as stomach flu, is a prevalent intestinal infection that often causes a combination of stomach ache, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue. This condition typically results from viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections.

Viral gastroenteritis, caused by norovirus or rotavirus, is the second most common illness in the United States. Bacterial gastroenteritis can be caused by various pathogens, including:

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

Symptoms of gastroenteritis often include:

• Stomach pain or cramping
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Low-grade fever
• Headache
• Fatigue

How long does gastroenteritis typically last? Most cases of viral gastroenteritis resolve within a few days to a week. However, bacterial infections may require antibiotic treatment and can persist longer if left untreated.

Diverticulitis: When Colon Pouches Become Inflamed

Diverticulitis is a condition that occurs when small pouches (diverticula) in the colon wall become infected and inflamed. This condition is more common in older adults and is often associated with a low-fiber diet.

Symptoms of diverticulitis may include:

• Pain in the lower left abdomen
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Bloody stools
• Frequent or painful urination
• Fever

How can diverticulitis be prevented? Increasing dietary fiber intake, staying hydrated, and regular exercise can help prevent diverticulitis. In some cases, medical intervention may be necessary to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Celiac Disease: When Gluten Becomes the Enemy

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder triggered by the ingestion of gluten. This condition affects approximately 2 million people in the United States, although many may be undiagnosed.

Common symptoms of celiac disease include:

• Stomach cramps
• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Bloating
• Malnutrition
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Joint pain
• Easy bruising

How is celiac disease diagnosed? Celiac disease is typically diagnosed through blood tests and intestinal biopsies. The only effective treatment is a strict gluten-free diet, which can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further intestinal damage.

COVID-19: A New Cause for Concern

While primarily a respiratory illness, COVID-19 can also cause gastrointestinal symptoms in some individuals. The novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is responsible for this disease, which has become a global health concern.

Potential symptoms of COVID-19 include:

• Cough and shortness of breath
• Loss of taste or smell
• Fever and chills
• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Muscle or body aches

When do COVID-19 symptoms typically appear? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms may manifest 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. If you suspect you have COVID-19, it’s crucial to isolate yourself and seek medical advice.

Medication Side Effects: An Often Overlooked Cause

Many medications can cause gastrointestinal side effects, including stomach ache, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue. These adverse events are unwanted reactions to a drug and can vary in severity.

Common medication side effects may include:

• Upset stomach
• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness
• Insomnia
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting

How can medication side effects be managed? If you experience persistent or severe side effects, consult your healthcare provider. They may adjust your dosage, switch to an alternative medication, or provide strategies to mitigate the side effects.

Endometriosis: A Hidden Cause of Abdominal Pain

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including gastrointestinal issues.

Symptoms of endometriosis may include:

• Stomach cramps
• Lower back and pelvic pain
• Heavy periods
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Bloating
• Fatigue
• Pain during intercourse

How is endometriosis diagnosed and treated? Diagnosis often involves a combination of physical exams, imaging tests, and sometimes laparoscopy. Treatment options may include pain management, hormone therapy, or surgery in severe cases.

Bowel Obstruction: A Serious Condition Requiring Immediate Attention

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 may include:

• Severe stomach cramping and pain
• Inability to pass gas
• Abdominal swelling
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Severe constipation or diarrhea

What causes bowel obstruction? Common causes include adhesions from previous surgeries, hernias, tumors, or inflammatory bowel diseases. Immediate medical attention is crucial if you suspect a bowel obstruction.

Pancreatitis: When the Pancreas Becomes Inflamed

Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, which can be acute or chronic. This condition often presents with sudden, severe abdominal pain that radiates to the back.

Additional symptoms of pancreatitis may include:

• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Sweating
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

What are the risk factors for pancreatitis? Heavy alcohol consumption, gallstones, certain medications, and high triglyceride levels can increase the risk of developing pancreatitis. Prompt medical treatment is essential to prevent complications.

Appendicitis: A Common Surgical Emergency

Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the colon. This condition often requires immediate surgical intervention to prevent complications.

Symptoms of appendicitis may include:

• Abdominal pain, typically in the lower right side
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Frequent urination
• Fever (in about 40% of cases)

How is appendicitis diagnosed? Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scan. If confirmed, appendectomy (surgical removal of the appendix) is usually performed promptly.

Iron Poisoning: An Unexpected 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 be particularly dangerous for children.

Symptoms of iron poisoning may include:

• Abdominal pain
• Irritability
• Drowsiness
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting, sometimes with blood
• Rapid breathing
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness

How is iron poisoning treated? Treatment depends on the severity of the poisoning and may include gastric lavage, iron chelation therapy, or supportive care. Prevention involves keeping iron supplements out of reach of children and taking only the recommended dosage.

Anaphylaxis: A Life-Threatening Allergic Reaction

Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur within minutes of exposure to an allergen. While respiratory symptoms are common, gastrointestinal symptoms can also occur.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include:

• Skin rash or hives
• Itchy throat
• Stomach pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Difficulty breathing
• Rapid pulse
• Dizziness or fainting

How is anaphylaxis treated? Immediate administration of epinephrine is crucial in treating anaphylaxis. People with known severe allergies often carry an epinephrine auto-injector (such as an EpiPen) for emergencies.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While many cases of stomach ache, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue can be managed at home, certain situations warrant immediate medical attention. These include:

• Severe, persistent abdominal pain
• Blood in vomit or stool
• Signs of dehydration (excessive thirst, dark urine, dizziness)
• High fever (above 102°F or 39°C)
• Symptoms lasting more than a few days without improvement
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Sudden, severe symptoms indicative of anaphylaxis

Should you go to the emergency room or wait for a doctor’s appointment? If symptoms are severe, sudden, or accompanied by warning signs like those listed above, it’s best to seek emergency care. For milder symptoms that persist, schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider.

Prevention and Management Strategies

While not all causes of stomach ache, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and manage symptoms:

1. Practice good hygiene, especially handwashing, to prevent infections
2. Maintain a healthy diet rich in fiber
3. Stay hydrated
4. Avoid known food allergens or triggers
5. Take medications as prescribed and report any side effects to your healthcare provider
6. Manage stress through relaxation techniques or exercise
7. Get adequate sleep
8. Keep a symptom diary to identify patterns or triggers

How can you support your digestive health? Incorporating probiotic-rich foods or supplements, eating smaller, more frequent meals, and avoiding trigger foods can help maintain a healthy digestive system. However, always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or starting new supplements.

Diagnostic Approaches for Gastrointestinal Issues

When experiencing persistent stomach ache, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue, your healthcare provider may use various diagnostic tools to determine the underlying cause. These may include:

• Physical examination
• Blood tests to check for infections, inflammation, or organ function
• Stool tests to detect parasites or bacterial infections
• Imaging studies such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or CT scans
• Endoscopy or colonoscopy to examine the digestive tract
• Food allergy or intolerance tests

What should you expect during a gastrointestinal evaluation? Your healthcare provider will likely start with a detailed medical history and physical exam. Based on these initial findings, they may order additional tests to confirm a diagnosis or rule out certain conditions. Be prepared to discuss your symptoms in detail, including their duration, severity, and any factors that seem to worsen or improve them.

Long-Term Impact and Complications

While many causes of stomach ache, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue are acute and resolve with appropriate treatment, some conditions can have long-term impacts or lead to complications if left untreated. Potential long-term effects may include:

• Chronic malnutrition or nutrient deficiencies
• Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
• Increased risk of infections
• Complications from untreated inflammatory conditions
• Development of chronic gastrointestinal disorders
• Impact on quality of life and mental health

How can you minimize the risk of long-term complications? Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are key to preventing long-term complications. If you experience persistent or recurrent symptoms, it’s crucial to work closely with your healthcare provider to develop an effective management plan. This may involve lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, medications, or other interventions tailored to your specific condition.

In conclusion, stomach ache, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue can be symptoms of various conditions ranging from mild to severe. Understanding the potential causes, recognizing warning signs, and seeking timely medical attention are crucial for effective management and prevention of complications. By staying informed and proactive about your health, you can take steps to maintain a healthy digestive system 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.

Read also

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.