[39M] Experiencing frequent diarrhea and daily urge to dry heave

What might be happening

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

• Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria or parasites. Viral gastroenteritis is the second most common illness in the U.S. It causes diarrhea and vomiting but no fever.

  • Treatment typically includes rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Antibiotics are not usually used unless the gastroenteritis is bacterial.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Signs and symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea or constipation, or both.

  • Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms so that you can live as normally as possible. In many cases, you can control IBS by managing your diet, lifestyle and stress.

• Food Intolerance or Allergy: Some people have difficulty digesting certain types of foods, which can lead to diarrhea and abdominal cramping.

  • Treatment generally involves avoiding the foods that cause the symptoms.

• Gastritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach lining. Weaknesses in the mucus-lined barrier that protects your stomach wall allow your digestive juices to damage and inflame your stomach lining.

  • Treatment typically involves taking medication to decrease stomach acid.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and other diagnoses are also possible. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

1. Stay hydrated: Diarrhea can cause dehydration, so make sure to drink plenty of fluids. Water is good, but adding broth, juice or sports drinks to your diet may help replace lost minerals called electrolytes.

2. Rest: Your body needs energy to fight off the virus. Getting extra sleep can give your body the rest it needs.

3. Eat light: While your body is fighting off a virus, it doesn’t need the extra work of digesting food. Stick with easy-to-digest foods like toast, gelatin, or bananas.

What you should look out for

If your symptoms persist or get worse, it's important to seek medical attention. Here are some signs that you should reach out to a healthcare provider:

• Blood in your stool
• High fever (above 101°F)
• Signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, excessive thirst, little to no urination, severe weakness, dizziness, or lightheadedness
• Severe abdominal or rectal pain
• Diarrhea that lasts more than 3 days

Remember, while this advice can provide guidance, it's always important to consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.