Diarrhea, characterized by frequent bowel movements and loose stools, is a common health concern. It can be a standalone problem or co-occur with additional symptoms like queasiness, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, or unintentional weight loss. Most cases of diarrhea are of short duration, typically lasting only a few days. However, when diarrhea extends beyond a few weeks, it may be a sign of an underlying problem, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or a more serious condition like an ongoing infection, celiac disease, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Diagnosis of Diarrhea
Your healthcare practitioner will review your medical history, medications, and perform a physical exam. They may order diagnostic tests to pinpoint the cause of your diarrhea. These tests for diarrhea diagnosis could include:
1.Blood Test for Diarrhea:
Full blood count tests, electrolyte measurements, and kidney function assessments can help us understand how severe your diarrhea is.
2.Stool sample analysis:
To identify the source of your diarrhea, your healthcare provider could recommend a stool test to look for bacteria or parasites.
3.Breath test for hydrogen levels.
This test detects lactose intolerance by measuring breath hydrogen levels after consuming a lactose-rich liquid, indicating incomplete lactose digestion.
4.You can pick a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy:
Using a slender illuminated tube inserted through your rectum, the doctor checks your colon. This tool can also take small tissue samples, called biopsies. Flexible sigmoidoscopy looks at the lower colon, while colonoscopy examines the entire colon.
5.Upper Endoscopy:
Doctors use a slender tube with a camera to look at your stomach and upper small intestine. They might take a tissue sample for testing in the lab.
Conclusion
Going to the bathroom more often, passing loose stools are the usual signs of diarrhoea. Diarrhoea can disrupt our regular routines and be quite uncomfortable. Typically, diarrhoea is a temporary problem that usually clears up within a few days. If it persists or if you're dealing with severe diarrhoea symptoms, it's essential to contact your healthcare provider. Remember, there's no need to be embarrassed; healthcare providers are well-versed in managing diarrhoea. Don't forget to review your health insurance coverage to ensure it can assist with any medical expenses associated with finding relief.