Diarrhea

Diarrhea is an increase in the frequency of bowel movements, an increase in the looseness of stool, or both. It is caused by increased secretion of fluid into the intestine, reduced absorption of fluid from the intestine, or rapid passage of stool through the intestine. Reach out to us at Enhanced Wellness Living today — your journey to wellness can begin with a single consultation!

What Symptoms Are Associated with Diarrhea?

Symptoms include:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Cramping
  • Other symptoms can depend on the cause

Are There Different Types?

Diarrhea can be defined absolutely or relatively. Absolute is more than five bowel movements a day or liquid stools. Relative is defined as an increase in the number of bowel movements per day or an increase in the looseness of stools compared with an individual’s usual bowel habits.

What Tests Can Be Done to Diagnose Acute Diarrhea?

Tests that are useful in the evaluation of this condition include:

  • Examination of stool for white blood cells or enzymes that they produce
  • Examination of stool for parasites
  • Cultures of stool for bacteria
  • Testing of stool for the toxins of C. difficile
  • Blood tests for electrolyte abnormalities

What Tests Can Be Done to Diagnose Chronic Diarrhea?

Tests that are useful in the evaluation of this condition include:

  • Examination of stool for parasites
  • Upper gastrointestinal X-rays (UGI series)
  • Barium enema
  • Esophago-gastro-duodenoscopy (EGD) with biopsies
  • Colonoscopy with biopsies
  • Small intestinal endoscopy with biopsies
  • Hydrogen breath testing
  • Measurement of fat in the stool
  • Pancreatic function tests

Treatment

In most cases, diarrhea usually dissipates in time. Once it is finished, bowel movements will return to normal. When it lasts more than a couple of days or comes on frequently, it might be a symptom of another cause and should be assessed by one of our providers.

The Following Cases May Require Emergency Treatment:

  • When diarrhea lasts more than 3 days
  • Bloody, black, or oily looking stools
  • Abdominal pain that doesn’t get better with a bowel movement
  • Dehydration symptoms including dizziness, weakness or muscle cramps
  • A high fever accompanying diarrhea

The first step in your journey towards improving your health is to schedule a new patient consultation. Our providers would be happy to answer any of your questions. At Enhanced Wellness Living, we proudly serve residents in the Jackson, Ridgeland, Bolton, Brandon, Canton, Clinton, Madison & Vicksburg, Mississippi area. We look forward to helping you lead a happier, healthier quality of life.