Diarrhea and changes in bowel habits – when should you seek help?
Diarrhea and changes in bowel habits can be caused by anything from mild infections to more serious conditions. If you experience persistent symptoms, it's important to find out what's causing them so you can get the right treatment.
At Medicus, we offer a thorough assessment to find the cause of your symptoms and help you with a customized treatment plan.
What are considered abnormal stool changes?
- Diarrhea: Loose or watery stools more than three times a day.
- Constipation: Less frequent or straining bowel movements, often with a hard consistency.
- Alternating between diarrhea and constipation: May be a sign of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other conditions.
- Blood or mucus in stool: A sign of possible inflammation or damage to the intestine.
- Changed color: Dark or black stools may indicate bleeding, while pale stools may indicate problems with the bile or liver.
Common causes of diarrhea and stool changes
- Infections: Viruses, bacteria, or parasites can cause acute diarrhea.
- Food intolerances: For example, lactose intolerance or celiac disease.
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): A functional bowel disorder that often causes alternating between diarrhea and constipation.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
- medications: Some antibiotics or laxatives can cause diarrhea.
- Stress: May affect bowel function and cause changes in stool.
When should you see a doctor?
You should seek help if?
- Diarrhea lasts longer than two weeks.
- You have blood or mucus in your stool.
- The symptoms are accompanied by weight loss, fever, or severe abdominal pain.
- You experience frequent changes in bowel movements for no apparent reason.
At Medicus, we can help you find out what is behind these symptoms and start the right treatment.
How we can help you
Colonoscopy
En koloskopi provides a detailed examination of your colon and can identify inflammation, polyps, or other causes of your symptoms.
Blood tests and stool samples
To detect infections, inflammations or other underlying conditions.
Personal follow-up
We take the time to understand your symptoms and tailor a treatment plan that suits you.
Practical information
referral
No referral is necessary – book an appointment directly with us.
Insurance
Many insurance companies cover the evaluation and treatment of diarrhea and related symptoms. Contact us to check if the treatment is covered by your insurance.
Book an appointment today - get a thorough assessment of your symptoms
Don't let diarrhea and stool changes limit you. Contact us today for a thorough evaluation and proper treatment.
