Know the Symptoms of Diarrhea and When to See a Doctor Everyday Health Menu NewslettersSearch Diarrhea Know the Symptoms of Diarrhea and When to See a Doctor By Ashley WelchMedically Reviewed by Ira Daniel Breite, MD Reviewed: June 17, 2022 Medically Reviewed Diarrhea can cause stomach pain and cramps. Getty Images Diarrhea is a common, unpleasant ailment that everyone suffers from at least occasionally. In the majority of cases, it will last a few days, but diarrhea that sticks around for weeks or longer can indicate a serious health problem requiring medical attention. It’s important to know the signs of diarrhea in both adults and children, and when it's time to see a doctor. Someone with diarrhea may also experience one or more of the following symptoms:Pain or cramping in the abdomenAn urgent need to go to the bathroomNausea If diarrhea is caused by an infection, people may also experience:Bloody stoolsVomitingFever and chillsLight-headedness and dizziness Diarrhea can lead to dehydration and malabsorption, each of which have their own symptoms. Symptoms of malabsorption include COVID-19 and Diarrhea Diarrhea, along with other gastrointestinal issues like nausea and vomiting, is a symptom of In some people, Other research suggests having diarrhea with COVID-19 is associated with an increased risk of severe illness. Scientists are still working to better understand the relationship between COVID-19 and gastrointestinal symptoms. Tests for Diarrhea Most diarrhea goes away on its own in a few days. When diarrhea lasts for longer, tests are needed to find out what’s causing it so proper treatment can be administered. A visit to the doctor for diarrhea will consist of a physical examination and a full medical history, including a review of your medication. A physician will also carefully feel your abdomen and may perform a rectal exam. Additionally, testing for acute diarrhea may include:Stool Test This might be recommended to determine whether you have a bacteria or a parasite infection. A healthcare professional will give you containers for catching and storing your stool samples, as well as instructions on where to send or take the containers for analysis. Blood Test A complete blood count can show signs of infection, If diarrhea persists, or if there are worrisome signs like bleeding, your doctor may order other tests, which include:Colonoscopy or Sigmoidoscopy These are both tests involving a lighted tube with a camera. A A sigmoidoscopy is a similar procedure but looks at the rectum and lower portion of the colon only. Hydrogen Breath Test This test is used to diagnose Fasting Test This will help determine if a food intolerance or allergy is the cause of your diarrhea. Your physician may ask you to avoid certain foods, including dairy, wheat, carbohydrates, or other ingredients in an effort to see if your symptoms of diarrhea respond to those diet changes. When to See Your Doctor While occasional bouts of diarrhea are common and not cause for concern, diarrhea can become dangerous if it leads to severe dehydration. It can also signal an infection or a more serious health issue. Visit your doctor right away if you experience any of the following symptoms:Diarrhea that lasts more than two daysDiarrhea accompanied by a fever of 102 degrees F or higherSix or more loose stools in 24 hoursSevere, unbearable pain in the abdomen or rectumBloody stools or stools that are black and tarry or contain pusDiarrhea accompanied by frequent vomitingSigns of dehydration Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking Symptoms & Causes of Diarrhea. Show Less NEWSLETTERS Sign up for our Digestive Health Newsletter SubscribeBy subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. The Latest in Diarrhea Can Your Period Cause Diarrhea? Besides riding a hormonal roller-coaster and dealing with uncomfortable cramps, many women also experience diarrhea during their period.By Diana RodriguezAugust 21, 2022 4 Tips to Prevent Traveler’s Diarrhea Traveler’s diarrhea is the most common travel-related illness. 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