HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Can Diarrhea Be A Sign Of The Flu?

default
Posted on Thu, 7 Jun 2018
Question: I have been ailing with a stomach complaint for almost a week, no vomiting but numerous trips to the loo for the other problem. I am not running a fever, but my wife is on her way home early from work due to an unstoppable cough. Are these flu symptoms, as one of my coworkers admitted her son was ill with flu last week and would have been the ideal vector for this virus. Is it also possible for the doctor to give me an excuse to take to my commanding officer since I am a Federal law enforcement employee and need this to substantiate my absence?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Ornela Ademovi (5 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Please see as below

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

I understand your concern, but it is not clear from your question whether you are experiencing any other symptoms, besides loose stools. It is flu season indeed and being on etanercept also means your immune system is weaker, but fever, fatigue, muscle pain, stuffy nose are more typical of flu.

Diarrhea doesn’t usually require medication and resolves after a couple of days, but you can take Imodium once or twice per day for relief. Good hydration is also very important.

If you experience stomach cramping, watery or green or foul smelling runny stools accompanied by a fever you most probably need antibiotics (prescription based medication).

Yes, it would be reasonable for any doctor (after clinical examination) to give you an excuse for a diagnosis of diarrhea.

I hope this answers your questions. Please feel free to ask any further questions.

Kind regards

Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Ornela Ademovi

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 725 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
Can Diarrhea Be A Sign Of The Flu?

Brief Answer: Please see as below Detailed Answer: Hello, I understand your concern, but it is not clear from your question whether you are experiencing any other symptoms, besides loose stools. It is flu season indeed and being on etanercept also means your immune system is weaker, but fever, fatigue, muscle pain, stuffy nose are more typical of flu. Diarrhea doesn’t usually require medication and resolves after a couple of days, but you can take Imodium once or twice per day for relief. Good hydration is also very important. If you experience stomach cramping, watery or green or foul smelling runny stools accompanied by a fever you most probably need antibiotics (prescription based medication). Yes, it would be reasonable for any doctor (after clinical examination) to give you an excuse for a diagnosis of diarrhea. I hope this answers your questions. Please feel free to ask any further questions. Kind regards