Symptoms of diarrhea: how to decide whether to see a doctor and how to choose a department

Introduction

Diarrhea is a common symptom caused by the elimination of unwanted substances from the body. If a foreigner living in or visiting Japan experiences symptoms of diarrhea, it is important to know whether he or she should see a doctor and, if so, which department to go to. This article explains the criteria for deciding whether or not to visit a hospital when diarrhea occurs and, if so, which department to go to.

Criteria for deciding whether you should see a doctor when diarrhea occurs

Diarrhea is a symptom of inflammation, infection, or other circumstances in the intestines and usually resolves within a few days, but it is important to see a doctor if the cause is serious. A visit to a doctor is also necessary if diarrhea persists continuously or if accompanying symptoms such as dehydration and weight loss occurs. The criteria for deciding whether you should see a doctor are as follows

• Diarrhoea that lasts for more than 4-5 consecutive days.
• If diarrhea interferes with daily life
• If there are complications such as loss of appetite, vomiting, or fever
• If blood is seen during diarrhea
• Infants, the elderly, pregnant women, etc.

Over-the-counter medicines can be used in emergency and transient cases, such as diarrhea caused by tension or stress. If a viral or bacterial infection is suspected, do not take over-the-counter medicines and drink fluids. If the diarrhea is so severe that you cannot even take fluids and is accompanied by vomiting, it is advisable to go to a hospital for intravenous fluids or other treatment rather than over-the-counter medicines.

The types of departments and clinics you should see

Visits can be made to internal medicine, gastroenterology, pediatrics, etc. Specifically, it is important to select the most appropriate department, taking into account the duration of diarrhea, the severity of the symptoms, and the concomitant symptoms. Examples of departments that should be consulted include

• Internal medicine: treatment of common diarrhea symptoms
• Gastroenterology: treatment for symptoms of diarrhea caused by diseases of the digestive system.
• Paediatrics: treatment of diarrhea in children.

OTC Drugs and Medicines available in Japanese Drugstores

Here are some famous drugs available in Japanese drugstores as reference. Please consult pharmacists or medical experts regarding dosage and precautions before getting those products.

Conclusion

Diarrhea is a symptom that subsides within a few days, but it is important to see a doctor if it is continuous or if accompanying symptoms occur. When visiting a doctor, you can choose from internal medicine, gastroenterology, or pediatrics.