Should you see a doctor for diarrhea? Here’s what to know.
Diarrhea isn’t exactly a topic most people love to talk about, but when it strikes, it can quickly ruin your day—and your plans. For many, it’s a short-term inconvenience that passes on its own. But what if it doesn’t? What if it’s accompanied by other symptoms or lasts longer than expected?
Knowing when diarrhea is more than just a minor issue can save you discomfort—and possibly prevent more serious health problems. In this guide, we’ll break down the signs that mean it’s time to see a doctor, the common causes of diarrhea and why ignoring persistent symptoms might not be a good idea.
Whether you're battling a sudden stomach upset or dealing with recurring digestive issues, we’ll help you understand when professional care is the right move.
How to tell if diarrhea is more than a minor issue.
Diarrhea can range from mild to severe, but how can you tell when it’s something to be concerned about? Typically, diarrhea lasts one to two days and clears up without intervention.
However, certain signs may indicate a more serious underlying issue.
When it might not be minor:
- Lasting more than a few days: Diarrhea that persists for longer than two or three days could point to an infection or a more chronic condition like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
- Dehydration symptoms: If you’re experiencing dry mouth, extreme thirst, dizziness, or dark urine, it’s a sign your body is losing too much fluid.
- Presence of blood or mucus: Blood in your stool or mucus can signal infections, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or other concerns that need a doctor’s evaluation.
Not sure how long diarrhea should last? Learn more about the duration of common stomach bugs in this helpful article.
Key symptoms that mean you should see a doctor for diarrhea.
Sometimes, diarrhea is more than just a temporary issue. Pay attention to the following symptoms that may indicate it’s time to visit a doctor:
Warning signs to watch for.
- Severe abdominal pain: Persistent or sharp pain in your abdomen may indicate something more serious, like appendicitis or an intestinal blockage.
- Fever of 101°F or higher: A high fever and diarrhea could point to a bacterial or viral infection requiring treatment.
- Chronic diarrhea: If diarrhea becomes a recurring issue, it could be linked to an underlying condition such as Crohn’s disease or lactose intolerance.
- Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss combined with diarrhea may signal malabsorption issues or other chronic conditions.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait. Seek medical attention immediately. CityMD’s expert team is here to help.
Visit our illnesses page to learn more about how we can assist with digestive concerns.
Common causes of diarrhea that may require medical care.
Many factors can lead to diarrhea, but not all of them need medical intervention. However, some causes are more serious and may require a doctor’s expertise to diagnose and treat effectively.
Potential causes of prolonged or severe diarrhea.
- Infections: Bacterial infections like salmonella or E. coli and viral infections like norovirus can cause diarrhea that doesn’t resolve on its own.
- Food intolerances: Lactose or gluten intolerance can result in frequent diarrhea after consuming certain foods.
- Medications: Some antibiotics and other medications can disrupt your gut’s natural balance, leading to diarrhea.
- Chronic conditions: Diseases like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or IBS can cause persistent digestive issues that require ongoing management.
Don’t let persistent diarrhea disrupt your life or leave you guessing about what’s wrong. Whether it’s a short-term issue or something that needs closer attention, CityMD is here to help. With same-day visits and expert care, we’ll work with you to find the cause and get you on the road to recovery.
We’re ready to care for you.
Visit any CityMD urgent care location in your community today for an evaluation with one of our expert providers.