How long should you have loose stools before seeing a doctor?

Visit your doctor right away if you experience any of the following symptoms: Diarrhea that lasts more than two days. Diarrhea accompanied by a fever of 102 degrees F or higher. Six or more loose stools in 24 hours.

Why has my poop been mushy for days?

When mushy stool occurs, it is often hard to control the urge or timing of the bowel movement. This form of stool has passed through the colon quickly, due to stress or a dramatic change in diet or activity level.

What can cause sudden diarrhea?

Causes of diarrhea

  • Infection. A viral infection, such as stomach flu, is the most common cause of acute diarrhea.
  • Food poisoning.
  • Lactose intolerance.
  • Parasites.
  • Toddler’s diarrhea.
  • Antibiotics.
  • Irritable bowel syndrome.
  • Inflammatory bowel disease.

Is it normal to have loose stools for a week?

Having loose stools is not uncommon as people from all groups can experience because it is chiefly caused by what you eat. You should feel some relief within two or three days of experiencing it.

When do loose stools become diarrhea what are the symptoms?

In order for loose stools to be considered diarrhea, they have to occur repeatedly. If you have loose stools three or more times per day, then it’s diarrhea. The most common symptoms of loose stools include: You may also have other gastrointestinal symptoms including: You may have either chronic loose stools or loose stools after eating.

What causes loose stools and what to do about it?

1 alcohol 2 rich and spicy foods 3 coffee 4 magnesium

What causes a lot of oily stools and diarrhea?

Certain conditions like chronic pancreatitis can also result in oily loose stools or diarrhea. Although a fatty meal can trigger loose stools, speak with your doctor if it’s a regular occurrence.

How long does it take for loose stools to go away?

It’s acute when loose stools last for a few days, up to two weeks. A viral infection commonly causes acute diarrhea. Persistent diarrhea lasts for 2 to 4 weeks. Chronic diarrhea lasts for four weeks or longer and may be continual or come and go. Chronic diarrhea is usually a sign of a more serious underlying condition.

Do you have diarrhea when you have loose stools?

However, if you have loose stools from time to time, it doesn’t mean you have diarrhea. In order for loose stools to be considered diarrhea, they have to occur repeatedly. If you have loose stools three or more times per day, then it’s diarrhea. The most common symptoms of loose stools include:

When to see a doctor for loose stool?

Loose stools may be a cause for concern if the diarrhea lasts longer than two weeks or when it is in conjunction with bleeding, weight loss or symptoms that keep you awake at night.

What to do when you have loose stools?

Practicing good self-care, like ensuring you get enough rest, drink plenty of water, feed your body nourishing foods and spend some time being active, can help to alleviate stress that may cause loose stools.