May 25, 2012
Topics A-Z Diarrhea I'm having soft stools for 8 weeks. Do I need to see a doctor?
I'm having soft stools for 8 weeks. Do I need to see a doctor? |
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Dear Ask The Doctor: Hello, I am 37 years old. recently in the last 8 weeks. My bowl movements have been water like or very soft clumps not amounting to much. I have to go number 2 approx. 5 times a day. Their is a lot of blotting and gas that comes along with it. My diet has not changed recently. Any ideas to the cause. Dear Jesse: Diarrhea lasting >4 weeks is considered chronic diarrhea. There are several causes: irritable bowel syndrome, overuse of laxatives, chronic alcohol abuse, hormonal disturbances (e.g. hyperthyroidism), malabsorption disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, viral and/or parasitic infections, to name a few. Usually, irritable bowel syndrome is ruled out first before other causes are entertained. A thorough history and physical exam should be done so the exact cause of the diarrhea can be determined. For now, if the diarrhea is really bothering you, use over-the-counter antimotility agents (Lomotil) to alleviate symptoms and always stay hydrated. Seeing a doctor as soon as possible should still be a priority. I do hope this helps and take care always |
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| Last Updated ( Wednesday, 07 September 2011 ) |
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