Contents
How Do Doctors Test for Diarrhea?
Published: Jan 24, 2024
Testing for diarrhea can help identify the cause and guide treatment, especially when symptoms are severe or persistent.
When Tests Are Needed
Not all diarrhea cases require testing. Doctors typically order tests when symptoms are severe, such as high fever, dehydration, or bloody stools. Tests are also warranted for patients with a history of recent travel, or in public health scenarios like outbreaks.
Types of Tests Used
The most common tests are stool cultures and molecular panels, which help identify bacterial, viral, or parasitic causes. Blood tests might also be required to check for dehydration or other complications. In some cases, imaging tests are used to rule out other issues.
Interpreting Test Results
Test results can reveal whether a bacterial or viral agent is causing the symptoms. Positive results guide specific treatments, while negative results may suggest a non-infectious cause, leading to further investigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Testing is needed when symptoms are severe or if there are public health concerns.
Stool tests detect bacterial, viral, or parasitic causes of diarrhea.
Yes, imaging tests can help rule out other abdominal conditions.
The Bottom Line
Proper testing can pinpoint the cause of diarrhea, leading to effective treatment.
References
- Clark SD et al. Open Forum Infect Dis 2019; 6:ofz162.
- Binnicker MJ. J Clin Microbiol 2015; 53:3723.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?