Timing and pattern
We review duration, frequency, nighttime symptoms and the relationship to meals, travel and medicines.
Lower digestive symptom
Persistent or recurrent diarrhea
We review duration, frequency, dehydration, blood, recent travel, antibiotics, foods and other changes.
Overview
Acute and chronic diarrhea are evaluated differently
A short episode after a meal or infection is different from diarrhea that persists or repeatedly returns.
Stool tests, blood tests and colonoscopy are considered according to duration, inflammation, bleeding, age and medical history.
Urgent signs
Arrange prompt medical assessment if these changes occur
These findings do not identify one diagnosis, but they can change how quickly you should be assessed.
- Marked dehydration, dizziness or inability to drink
- Blood in the stool, black stool or increasing abdominal pain
- Persistent fever, repeated nighttime diarrhea or unintentional weight loss
What we check
What we review during the consultation
We combine the course of the symptom or result with the medical background rather than judging from one finding alone.
Symptoms that occur together
Blood, mucus, fever, abdominal pain, bloating, weight loss, joint or skin symptoms and dehydration are checked.
Medical history and medicines
We review current conditions, operations, family history, alcohol and smoking, prescribed medicines, over-the-counter products and supplements.
Consultation flow
From consultation to the next step
The order may change according to the symptom or result. We first review urgency and then select the appropriate evaluation.
- 01
Organize the symptom
We review when it started, how it changes and its relationship to meals or bowel movements.
- 02
Check urgency
Bleeding, severe pain, fever, dehydration and other findings that affect timing are reviewed.
- 03
Review the background
Medical conditions, medicines, operations, screening results and previous tests are checked.
- 04
Select appropriate tests
Blood, stool, imaging or endoscopy is considered according to the clinical findings.
- 05
Decide the next step
Treatment, observation, additional testing or hospital referral is discussed from the results.
Assessment
How we decide the next step
Clinical review
The consultation begins by organizing the course of the symptom or screening result and checking whether prompt evaluation is needed.
Tests selected for the situation
Blood and stool tests may be used first. Colonoscopy is considered when inflammation, bleeding or a persistent unexplained change is suspected.
Treatment and follow-up
We explain the findings and decide whether treatment, observation, additional testing or referral to a hospital is appropriate.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about Diarrhea
These are general principles. Individual testing and treatment are decided during the consultation.
Will I always need an endoscopy?
Not always. The duration and associated findings determine whether stool or blood tests, treatment, colonoscopy or referral is appropriate.
Do I need an appointment for the first consultation?
General medical consultations do not require an appointment. Please visit during clinic hours. Gastroscopy and colonoscopy are arranged separately after the required information is reviewed.
Medical references
General medical information is based on public guidance from professional societies and national institutions. Individual care is determined after clinical review.
Related
Related pages
Contact
General consultation for Diarrhea does not require an appointment
Visit during clinic hours. Gastroscopy and colonoscopy requests are handled through the dedicated page.