Most of us have been there — a day stuck close to the bathroom with diarrhea.
“It can happen because of a virus, food poisoning or a reaction to something you ate,” says Benigno Varela, MD, a gastroenterologist with PACT Gastroenterology Center and Hartford HealthCare’s Digestive Health Institute. “It’s not fun, but it usually clears up within a few days with rest and fluids.”
But what if it doesn’t? Here’s when to check in with your doctor.
1. It’s not getting better
If you’re on day three, or things are getting worse, it’s time to pick up the phone.
“When symptoms stick around, we think beyond a simple stomach bug,” says Dr. Varela. “Especially if it lasts more than 1–2 weeks, we need to take a closer look.”
Ongoing symptoms can be linked to:
- Digestive conditions like Crohn’s disease or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
- Food intolerances, such as lactose intolerance.
- Infections from bacteria or parasites.
- Medication side effects, especially antibiotics.
> Related: The 10 Best Foods for Your Gut Health
2. You notice blood or mucus
This is a clear signal from your body that something isn’t right.
“Blood or mucus in your stool can point to inflammation, infection or another underlying condition that needs evaluation,” says Dr. Varela. “Always call your doctor if you see blood in your stool.”
> Related: What Your Mucus Color Is Trying to Tell You
3. You’re getting dehydrated
Diarrhea can lead to fluid loss quickly, especially in children and older adults.
Watch for:
- Dark urine or going less often.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness.
- Dry mouth.
- Fatigue or confusion.
“It’s so important to stay hydrated,” says Dr. Varela. “If you can’t keep up with fluid loss, symptoms can escalate quickly. In some cases, electrolyte drinks can help if water alone isn’t enough.”
> Related: This Is What Dehydration Actually Looks Like
4. You have a fever or severe pain.
Mild cramping is common with diarrhea. Severe symptoms are not.
“Severe pain or a high fever can point to something more than a routine illness,” says Dr. Varela.
Call your doctor if you have:
- A fever over 101°F.
- Intense or worsening abdominal pain.
- Persistent bloating with tenderness.
> Related: 6 Signs It’s Time to See a Doctor for My Fever
5. There’s a clear trigger, like travel or antibiotics
Sometimes the cause is in your recent history.
“Diarrhea after international travel may be linked to contaminated food or water,” explains Dr. Varela. “And antibiotics can disrupt the balance of healthy bacteria in your gut, sometimes leading to more serious infections.”
Even if it’s been a few weeks since taking antibiotics, it’s still worth checking in.
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6. You have an underlying condition
Some people should reach out sooner rather than later.
This includes those who are:
- Immunocompromised.
- Living with digestive conditions like IBD.
- Managing chronic illnesses like diabetes or kidney disease.
- Over age 65.
“In higher-risk patients, we don’t want to wait,” says Dr. Varela. “An early visit to us can help prevent complications.”
> Related: 5 Ways to Improve Your Gut Health
Is it time to make the call?
When diarrhea first starts, simple care is often enough.
Try:
- Adding probiotics like yogurt or fermented foods.
- Drinking plenty of fluids or electrolyte solutions.
- Skipping alcohol, caffeine, dairy and high-fiber foods until symptoms improve.
- Sticking to bland foods like bananas, rice, applesauce and toast.
- Taking bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol®) for 1–2 days to ease diarrhea. It may darken your stool or tongue – this is harmless.
- Washing your hands frequently.
“Listen to your body,” says Dr. Varela. “Even though diarrhea is common, you’ll know when something feels off. A quick call can bring peace of mind – and help you feel better faster.”
