Diarrhea can strike anyone—kids, adults, even seniors. Most of the time it clears up in a day or two. But when should you call your doctor? In this easy-to-read guide, Houston gastroenterologist Dr. Bharat Pothuri explains how to know if your diarrhea is serious. We’ll also cover common causes, special scenarios, and simple tips to feel better fast.
Diarrhea means having loose, watery stools three or more times in 24 hours. It can make you cramp, feel weak, or even dizzy. Most bouts last one to three days. But sometimes diarrhea signals a bigger problem.
“As a Houston gastroenterologist, I tell my patients that our gut often talks to us,” says Dr. Bharat Pothuri. “We just need to listen.”
If you’re not sure what’s causing your symptoms, keep a simple food and symptom diary for 24–48 hours. Note what you eat, when you use the bathroom, and any other signs like fever or nausea.
Below are some questions patients often ask. We explain each in a friendly, simple way.
Early pregnancy can bring all kinds of tummy changes. Hormone shifts slow digestion for some women, but speed it up for others.
Dr. Pothuri explains, “As hormone levels change, stool consistency can vary. But diarrhea alone doesn’t confirm pregnancy.”
Waking up with diarrhea can happen for many reasons:
If you regularly get diarrhea in the morning, track your sleep, stress, and meals. Try avoiding spicy or fatty foods after 7 p.m. to see if it helps.
Peptic ulcers usually cause burning belly pain or indigestion. But can they also lead to diarrhea?
If you have persistent belly pain and diarrhea, talk to a gastroenterologist. You may need tests like an endoscopy.
Headaches and diarrhea can go hand in hand. Common links include:
Stay hydrated with small sips of water or oral rehydration solutions. If your headache won’t let up, or if you see blurred vision, call your doctor right away.
Most kidney stone symptoms involve back or side pain—not diarrhea. Yet some people ask, “Do kidney stones cause diarrhea?”
If you have severe flank pain plus diarrhea, you need a full checkup. Your Houston or Greater Houston specialist can order the right imaging tests.
How do you know it’s time to call your doctor or head to the ER? Look for these red flags.
“In Houston, we have excellent GI clinics ready to help,” says Dr. Pothuri. “Don’t wait until you’re dehydrated.”
| Feature | Mild Diarrhea | Severe Diarrhea |
| Duration | 1–2 days | More than 2 days |
| Stool Frequency | 3–5 loose stools per day | Over 6 loose stools per day |
| Fever | Low-grade or none | High-grade (over 102°F) |
| Blood/Mucus in Stool | Rare | Common |
| Dehydration Symptoms | Thirst, mild fatigue | Dizziness, rapid heartbeat, sunken eyes |
| When to Seek Help | If persists beyond 2 days | Immediately or emergency services for shock |
Most mild cases of diarrhea improve at home. Try these simple steps:
You can reduce your risk of diarrhea with a few daily habits:
Most diarrhea episodes pass quickly with simple home care. But if you see any red flags—like blood in your stool, high fever, or signs of dehydration—don’t wait. Call your Houston gastroenterologist or head to the nearest ER.
At Gastrodoxs.com, we believe everyone deserves fast, clear advice when tummy troubles strike. If you need personalized care in Houston or the Greater Houston area, reach out to Dr. Bharat Pothuri’s office. Your gut will thank you!
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
In adults, most cases clear up in 1–3 days. In kids, it may last up to 5 days. Seek help if it goes beyond that.
Yes. Stress and anxiety can trigger irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), leading to diarrhea.
Viral and bacterial forms can spread. Wash hands well and avoid sharing utensils or towels.
If you’re very thirsty, dizzy, or have dark urine, you may be dehydrated. Get fluids right away.
Dairy, fatty or greasy foods, spicy dishes, high-fiber fruits and veggies, and caffeine can all make diarrhea worse.
Generally yes. Probiotics help restore gut bacteria, but talk to your Houston gastroenterologist if you have severe symptoms.
Many people get loose stools on antibiotics. Talk to your doctor about adding a probiotic supplement.
You don’t need to fast. Eat bland, easy-to-digest foods in small amounts.
If diarrhea lasts more than 24 hours, if the child is less than 3 months old, or if there are signs of dehydration.
It’s best to rest until you feel stronger. Light stretching is OK, but avoid intense workouts until you’re rehydrated.
