Diarrhoea & Vomiting

Diarrhoea and vomiting occur when the digestive system is irritated or infected, leading to frequent loose stools and the forceful expulsion of stomach contents. These symptoms often appear together and can cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and short-term nutritional deficiencies if not managed properly. While mild cases resolve on their own, prolonged or severe symptoms may require medical attention to prevent complications.

Dr. Chok Aik Yong

Colorectal Surgeon & General Surgeon

MBBS | MRCS (UK) | MMed (Surgery) | FRCS (UK)

Symptoms Causes Diagnosis Treatment Prevention FAQ

Symptoms of Diarrhoea & Vomiting

Diarrhoea and vomiting can present with a variety of symptoms, affecting digestion, hydration, and overall well-being.

Frequent loose, watery stools: Bowel movements occur more often than usual, with stools that are softer or completely liquid. This can lead to an urgent need to use the toilet and may be accompanied by bloating or mild discomfort.
Nausea and vomiting: A feeling of queasiness in the stomach that can lead to vomiting, which expels stomach contents forcefully. Vomiting may be occasional or persistent, depending on the underlying cause.
Abdominal discomfort or cramping: The stomach may feel tight, bloated, or painful, especially before passing stool or vomiting. The discomfort can range from mild to severe, with episodes of worsening pain.
Signs of dehydration: A dry mouth, increased thirst, reduced urination, and darker-coloured urine indicate a loss of body fluids. In more severe cases, dehydration can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and weakness.
Fatigue and weakness: Loss of fluids, disrupted sleep, and reduced nutrient absorption may cause tiredness, low energy levels, and a general feeling of weakness.

Causes and Risk Factors

Diarrhoea and vomiting can result from various triggers, including infections, food-related reactions, and medication effects.

Viral infections

Norovirus and rotavirus are common culprits, spreading through contaminated food, water, or close contact with infected individuals.

Bacterial infections

Salmonella, Escherichia coli (E. coli), Campylobacter, and other bacteria can enter the digestive system through undercooked food, unclean water, or improper food handling.

Food intolerances and sensitivities

Certain conditions, such as lactose intolerance or coeliac disease, can cause digestive distress when specific foods are consumed.

Medication side effects

Antibiotics and other medications may disturb gut bacteria balance, resulting in diarrhoea.

Traveller’s diarrhoea

Exposure to unfamiliar bacteria and parasites in food and water while travelling can cause digestive symptoms.

Diagnostic Methods

Physical examination

Dehydration signs, including dry mouth and reduced skin elasticity, are checked along with abdominal tenderness or unusual sounds. Vital signs such as heart rate and blood pressure may be monitored to assess fluid loss effects.
Stool analysis

A stool sample may be tested for bacteria, viruses, parasites, or blood. If an infection is suspected, a culture may be performed to pinpoint the exact cause. Test results typically take 2–3 days.
Blood tests

This helps assess electrolyte levels, hydration status, kidney function, and inflammation markers. In prolonged or severe cases, they can indicate whether further medical intervention is necessary.

Treatment Options

Management focuses on symptom relief, hydration, and dietary adjustments to support recovery.

Fluid replacement

Water, clear broths, and oral rehydration solutions help restore fluids and electrolytes. Taking small, frequent sips reduces the risk of further stomach irritation.

Dietary adjustments

Eating bland, low-fibre foods such as plain rice, toast, and bananas can ease digestion. Spicy, fatty, dairy-based, and caffeinated foods should be avoided until symptoms resolve. Normal meals can be gradually reintroduced as the digestive system recovers.

Medication use

In some cases, anti-diarrhoeal medicines such as activated charcoal may help slow bowel movements, while anti-emetics such as Domperidone can reduce nausea and vomiting. These should only be used under medical advice, as they may not be suitable for all causes of diarrhoea and vomiting.

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Prevention and Management

Good hygiene, proper food handling, and cautious eating can help prevent diarrhoea and vomiting. Washing hands with soap and water before meals and after using the toilet reduces infection risk. Cooking meat thoroughly, preventing cross-contamination, and drinking bottled or boiled water when travelling lowers exposure to harmful bacteria. Staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and allowing adequate rest support recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long do diarrhoea and vomiting usually last?

Symptoms often improve within 1–3 days. However, bacterial or parasitic infections, food intolerances, or underlying digestive conditions may extend the duration.

Is diarrhoea after eating a sign of food poisoning?

It can be, especially if symptoms appear within hours of eating and are accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or stomach cramps. However, other conditions like food intolerances or irritable bowel syndrome can also cause diarrhoea after meals.

Can dairy products worsen diarrhoea?

Yes, dairy products can be harder to digest when the gut is irritated. It is best to avoid milk and other dairy products until symptoms fully resolve.

Dr. Chok Aik Yong

Colorectal Surgeon & General Surgeon

MBBS|MRCS (UK)|MMed (Surgery)|FRCS (UK)

Expertise lies in managing colorectal diseases, particularly advanced colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease.

Dr Chok graduated with degrees in Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery from the National University of Singapore. He was conferred the Master of Medicine (Surgery) in Edinburgh (UK) and a member of the Royal College of Surgeons, UK. He subsequently completed his specialist training in colorectal surgery and became a Fellow of the royal college of Surgeons in Edinburgh in 2016.
Dr Chok was awarded the Health Manpower Development Plan (HMDP) award in 2019 to further advance his colorectal training at Royal Marsden Hospital, one of the top 5 cancer centres in the world. While in London, Dr Chok trained with pioneers in the surgical management of advanced colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and gained extensive experience while appraising the latest clinical and research evidence.

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