Why do I get stomach discomfort and loose stools after food?

Question

Hello doctor,

For the last three to four days, after every meal, I am facing loose stools. Generally after four to five hours of consuming meals. No blood in the stools but a little bit of discomfort around the anal region.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern. Most likely you are suffering from gastroenteritis, also known as stomach flu. It is an intestinal infection marked by diarrhea, cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever. However, it is not necessary that all symptoms are present in every patient. Mostly bacterial, protozoal, and viral infections cause inflammation in your stomach and intestines, causing symptoms like vomiting, severe abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. You should get a stool routine and microscopy test done to see the cause of the infection. If possible, an ultrasound of the abdomen should be done. Treatment is to be discussed with your treating doctor. I suggest:

Take an anti-diarrheal (Loperamide 2 mg) capsule.
Take Ondansetron 4 mg tablet for nausea along with a proton pump inhibitor 40 mg to provide symptomatic relief.
If the stool test is positive for bacterial infection, therapy with antibiotics like a third-generation Cephalosporin and anti-protozoal like Metronidazole can be given for three days.
Take a lot of soluble fiber in your diet.
Take lots of yogurt in your diet. It contains Lactobacillus (good bacteria in the gut).
Have Isabgol husk two teaspoons twice daily.
An over-the-counter probiotic should be taken thrice a day.
Drink a lot of orange juice and coconut water. Take juices rich in potassium to compensate for electrolyte loss in stools.
Keep yourself hydrated. Drink plenty of boiled water.
Eat light food. Avoid spicy and junk food.

Please mention the duration from which you are having symptoms. I hope I have cleared all your doubts. In case you have any more questions, feel free to ask.

Thank you.