Diagnosis of Diarrhoea
When diarrhoea lasts longer than a couple of days or is accompanied by concerning symptoms, medical evaluation becomes necessary. To accurately perform the diagnosis of diahhroea, the cause of diarrhoea, healthcare providers take a detailed history, perform a physical examination, and may request laboratory tests.
Doctors usually begin by asking about recent meals, travel history, medication use, and exposure to potentially contaminated water or food. These details can offer vital clues. For instance, if someone has recently returned from an area with poor sanitation, an infection is a likely cause. Similarly, a patient taking antibiotics may be suffering from antibiotic-associated diarrhoea.
Stool tests are often used to check for bacteria, parasites, or signs of inflammation. These samples help pinpoint infections like Salmonella, Shigella, or Giardia. In cases of chronic or recurrent diarrhoea, doctors might do blood tests to check for inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, or autoimmune markers. This can help identify conditions such as coeliac disease or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
If the cause remains unclear, doctors might use further diagnostic tools. A colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy allows doctors to view the inside of the bowel and take tissue samples (biopsies) if needed. Imaging tests like abdominal ultrasound or CT scans may help detect structural problems or inflammation in the digestive tract.
Diagnosis of Diarrhoea
In South Africa, access to these tests may depend on the location and healthcare setting. While private clinics offer faster turnaround times, public healthcare facilities may experience delays. Regardless, early diagnosis of diarrhoea can help prevent dehydration and guide appropriate treatment.
Once they identify the cause, doctors can tailor treatment to the specific condition. Whether it’s an infection, chronic illness, or medication-related problem, identifying the root cause is essential for effective care and recovery.
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