[19F] Experiencing crampy stomachache and persistent watery diarrhea

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Gastroenteritis: Also known as the stomach flu, this condition is often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, and sometimes fever and vomiting. The fact that your symptoms started after a flight could suggest that you picked up an infection while traveling.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and eating bland foods until the infection clears.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a chronic condition that affects the large intestine and can cause cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation. However, IBS usually doesn't cause changes in stool color or consistency.

  • Treatment often involves long-term lifestyle adjustments.

• Food poisoning: This is an illness caused by eating contaminated food. Symptoms can start within hours of eating the contaminated food and can include diarrhea, stomach cramps, and vomiting.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and avoiding the offending food.

What you can do

1. Stay hydrated: Diarrhea can cause you to lose a lot of water and electrolytes. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or electrolyte solutions. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can dehydrate you.

2. Eat bland foods: When you feel ready to eat solid foods, start with bland foods like rice, crackers, or bananas.

3. Rest: Your body needs energy to fight off the infection. Getting rest will help.

4. Over-the-counter treatments: There are over-the-counter medicines that can help with symptoms of diarrhea and stomach cramps. However, these should not be used for more than a couple of days without talking to a doctor.

What you should look out for

If your symptoms continue for more than a week, or if you have any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention:

• Severe abdominal or rectal pain
• Blood in your stool or black, tarry stools
• High fever (above 101.3°F)
• Signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, excessive thirst, little to no urination, severe weakness, dizziness, or lightheadedness

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.