Understanding Diarrhea
Diarrhea is defined as loose, watery stools occurring three or more times per day. While occasional diarrhea is common and usually resolves on its own, chronic diarrhea lasting more than four weeks may indicate an underlying gastrointestinal condition that requires proper diagnosis and treatment.
Diarrhea is broadly categorized as acute (lasting less than 2 weeks), persistent (2-4 weeks), or chronic (more than 4 weeks). The causes range from infections and food intolerances to inflammatory bowel diseases, malabsorption syndromes, and functional disorders. Identifying the specific cause is essential for effective treatment.
At Dr. Jing Tong Gastroenterology in Flushing, NY, we conduct comprehensive evaluations to determine the root cause of your diarrhea. Dr. Tong's training at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and expertise in therapeutic endoscopy enable precise diagnosis and targeted treatment for patients throughout Queens and the greater New York City area.
When to See a Doctor
Diarrhea Lasting > 2 Weeks
Blood or Mucus in Stool
Fever Above 102°F
Signs of Dehydration
Unexplained Weight Loss
Severe Abdominal Pain
Common Causes & Treatment
Dr. Tong evaluates each patient systematically to identify the specific cause and provide targeted treatment:
Infectious Diarrhea
Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections are common causes of acute diarrhea. Stool cultures and testing help identify the pathogen. Treatment may include antibiotics, antiparasitics, fluid replacement, and supportive care depending on the causative organism.
Food Intolerance & Malabsorption
Lactose intolerance, fructose malabsorption, celiac disease, and other food sensitivities can cause chronic diarrhea. Breath tests, blood panels, and endoscopic biopsy help identify these conditions, enabling targeted dietary modifications.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis commonly present with chronic diarrhea, often with blood. Colonoscopy with biopsy is essential for diagnosis. Treatment involves anti-inflammatory medications, immunomodulators, or biologic therapies.
Functional Diarrhea & IBS-D
When no structural or infectious cause is found, functional diarrhea or diarrhea-predominant IBS may be diagnosed. Treatment includes dietary changes (low-FODMAP), anti-diarrheal medications, bile acid sequestrants, and stress management techniques.
Why Choose Dr. Jing Tong?
Johns Hopkins Trained
Systematic diagnostic approach trained at one of the nation's premier medical institutions.
Therapeutic Endoscopy
Advanced endoscopic capabilities for thorough evaluation of chronic diarrhea causes.
Multilingual Care
Comfortable care in Mandarin, Shanghainese, and English for our diverse community.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is diarrhea considered chronic?
Diarrhea is considered chronic when it persists for more than four weeks. At this point, it is important to see a gastroenterologist for proper evaluation, as chronic diarrhea often signals an underlying condition that requires specific treatment.
What tests are used to diagnose the cause of diarrhea?
Depending on your symptoms, Dr. Tong may order stool studies (culture, ova and parasites, C. difficile), blood tests (celiac panel, inflammatory markers), breath tests (lactose, fructose), and colonoscopy with biopsy to determine the underlying cause.
Can medications cause diarrhea?
Yes, many medications can cause diarrhea as a side effect, including antibiotics, NSAIDs, metformin, proton pump inhibitors, and certain supplements. Dr. Tong will review your medication history as part of the diagnostic evaluation.
How can I prevent dehydration from diarrhea?
Drink plenty of clear fluids including water, broths, and oral rehydration solutions. Avoid caffeine and alcohol. If you experience signs of severe dehydration such as dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or very dark urine, seek medical attention immediately.
Should I take over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medication?
Over-the-counter medications like loperamide can provide temporary relief, but they should not be used if you have bloody diarrhea or high fever, as they may mask a serious condition. It is best to consult with Dr. Tong for persistent symptoms to determine the appropriate treatment.
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Find the Cause of Your Diarrhea
Don't suffer in silence. Get a proper diagnosis and effective treatment at our Flushing office.