Can a virus cause diarrhea for two weeks?

Acute diarrhea is diarrhea that comes on suddenly and usually lasts 1 to 3 days, but can continue for as long as 2 weeks. The most common cause is a viral infection, or gastroenteritis. In children, rotavirus is the most common culprit.

Should I go to the doctor if I’ve had diarrhea for 2 weeks?

When to See Your Doctor Visit your doctor right away if you experience any of the following symptoms: Diarrhea that lasts more than two days. Diarrhea accompanied by a fever of 102 degrees F or higher. Six or more loose stools in 24 hours.

Why have I had diarrhea for 14 days?

Persistent Diarrhea When diarrhea lasts more than 14 days, it is considered to be persistent. The etiologic agents are likely to be different in these cases (8). The most important group of pathogens is the intestinal protozoa, including Giardia, Cryptosporidium and E. histolytica.

Does diarrhea clean out your colon?

Many people believe that they have emptied out their colons after multiple bouts of diarrhea or that they can keep their colon empty by avoiding food. However, since stool is made up in large part of bacteria, fecal matter is continuously being formed.

What if diarrhea won’t stop?

Although dehydration is the biggest worry with diarrhea, it’s not the only one. If diarrhea persists beyond a few days, complications, including kidney and urinary problems, can arise. It could also be a symptom of a more serious condition, like Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or signs of an infection.

What is considered severe diarrhea?

Severe diarrhea means having more than 10 loose, watery stools in a single day (24 hours). Moderate diarrhea means having more than a few but not more than 10 diarrhea stools in a day. Mild diarrhea means having a few diarrhea stools in a day.

What if you have diarrhea for 2 weeks?

Acute diarrhea, which lasts from two days to two weeks, is typically caused by a bacterial, viral or parasitic infection of some sort. Chronic diarrhea lasts longer than does acute diarrhea, generally more than four weeks. Chronic diarrhea can indicate a serious disorder, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn ‘s disease,…

Is it normal to have diarrhea for 2 weeks?

Chronic diarrhea is not normal and you should talk to your doctor about it. “After two weeks, if you still have loose, watery stools that are not getting any better,” says Dr. Starpoli, “you investigate.”.

Why do I keep getting diarrhea?

Common causes of acute diarrhea include: Viral infections. Bacterial infections. Parasites. Medications. Lactose intolerance. Fructose. Artificial sweeteners.

What kind of Doctor treats diarrhea?

Doctor and medical specialist list for Diarrhea: The following types of doctors or medical specialists have been listed as possibly involved in diagnosis, treatment or management for Diarrhea: Gastroenterologist. Gastrointestinal surgeon. Geriatric medicine specialist. Infectious disease specialist. Pediatrician.