Abdominal pain and diarrhea that occur at the same time may have a variety of causes. These can include indigestion, infections, allergies, food intolerances, and an intestinal condition, among others.
Abdominal pain refers to any pain you feel between your chest and pelvis. This may feel like cramps and aches that may be dull or sharp.
Diarrhea is when you experience loose, watery stools at least
There are three types of diarrhea, which vary depending on how long symptoms last:
- Acute: Up to 2 weeks.
- Persistent: 2 to 4 weeks.
- Chronic: At least 4 weeks, and symptoms may come and go.
It’s common to sometimes experience acute diarrhea, which may be accompanied by short-term abdominal pain.
However, persistent and chronic diarrhea that’s accompanied by abdominal pain may be a sign of an underlying health condition that requires medical treatment.
Keep reading to learn more about the causes of abdominal pain and diarrhea, when to see a doctor, and how to treat it.
Most people occasionally experience abdominal pain and diarrhea for a short time. This may
- making dietary changes
- consuming too much alcohol
- indigestion
- viruses, including the stomach flu
- food poisoning
- taking certain medications, such as some antibiotics, antacids, and cancer drugs
- premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
- parasites, like giardiasis, amebiasis, or hookworm
- bacterial infection, like shigellosis or E. coli
- stress and anxiety
Infections or health conditions that that affect the organs in your abdomen can cause pain with diarrhea. Organs in the abdomen include:
Health conditions that affect these areas may cause inflammation in different parts of your digestive tract, like the stomach and intestines. This can cause cramps and interrupt typical digestive processes, resulting in abdominal pain and diarrhea.
Frequent, constant, or severe abdominal pain and diarrhea may indicate an underlying health condition. Depending on the condition, you may also experience bloody stools.
Some health conditions that may cause abdominal pain and diarrhea
- food allergies
- irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- food intolerance, such as lactose or gluten intolerance
- diverticulitis
- pancreatitis
- stomach ulcers
- biliary colic
- impacted bowel
- intestinal obstruction
- inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease
- appendicitis
- drug allergies
- celiac disease
- cystic fibrosis
- some forms of cancer
Vascular disorders that occur in the intestines may also cause abdominal pain and diarrhea. These may include:
- mesenteric ischemia
- mesenteric venous thrombosis
- median arcuate ligament syndrome
Speak with a healthcare professional if you experience abdominal pain and diarrhea that last for
- frequent nausea or vomiting
- a sustained fever of 102°F (38.9°C) or higher
- stool that contains blood or dried blood, which looks like wet coffee grounds
- an inability to keep food down
- extreme thirst or dry mouth
- an inability to speak or see
- mental confusion or loss of consciousness
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- seizures
- swelling of the genitals
- external bleeding
Diarrhea can be more dangerous for infants, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. In these cases, discuss symptoms with a doctor.
To determine the cause of abdominal pain and diarrhea, a doctor will first perform a physical exam. They’ll also ask some questions about your health history and lifestyle.
Be sure to mention any recent trips overseas. Traveling to certain countries may increase your risk of traveler’s diarrhea and abdominal pain, which is usually caused by an infection from
A doctor may also order a stool culture, urinalysis, and blood tests to check for signs of infection and inflammation.
Other diagnostic tests may include:
Medication can help treat the underlying condition causing your abdominal pain and diarrhea. If your symptoms are caused by stress or need to be managed, home remedies can help.
Medical treatments
The type of medical treatment you’ll receive for abdominal pain and diarrhea depends on the underlying condition causing your symptoms.
Treatments for some of the more common causes of these symptoms include:
- antidiarrheal medications
- antibiotics to treat bacterial infections, including food poisoning
- prescription allergy medications
- antidepressants to treat stress and anxiety
- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for inflammatory conditions
- antiparasitic drugs to kill parasites
Home remedies
In most cases, acute diarrhea and abdominal pain will get better on their own without medical treatment. Some natural remedies may provide symptom relief.
Staying hydrated when you experience these symptoms can prevent dehydration and complications. Drink plenty of clear liquids, such as water, juice, and broth, and avoid caffeine and alcohol.
The following dietary changes may also help relieve your symptoms:
- eat small amounts of low fiber, mild foods like plain toast, rice, and eggs
- avoid spicy, high fat, and high fiber foods
- eat foods rich in probiotics, such as yogurt and sauerkraut
Some over-the-counter (OTC) medications and herbal supplements can also help ease stomach pain and diarrhea. Some herbal supplements include:
It’s important to speak with a doctor or pharmacist before taking OTC medications and herbal remedies. Always follow their advice and the instructions on the packaging.
Some stress-relieving activities like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing could help relieve symptoms.
Not all conditions that cause abdominal pain and diarrhea can be prevented, but some
- eating a balanced diet
- limiting alcohol and spicy and fatty foods
- drinking plenty of water
- washing your hands frequently
- practicing good hygiene when preparing food, such as washing kitchen work surfaces frequently
- storing food properly
When traveling abroad, be careful about what you eat and drink. Consider avoiding tap water, ice cubes, and raw foods, including peeled fruits and vegetables.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists disease warnings and travel advisories on its travel health website. Consult this list and a doctor before traveling abroad.
What causes stomach pain and diarrhea?
The most common causes of stomach pain and diarrhea are infections, such as gastroenteritis (stomach flu), and food allergies, lactose intolerance, and stress. Common bowel disorders, such as IBS and Crohn’s disease, can also cause these symptoms.
When should I go to the ER for abdominal pain and diarrhea?
Get immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- severe, sudden abdominal pain
- vomit and it’s bloody or looks like coffee grounds
- bloody or black, tarry stools
- pain when you touch your abdomen
- difficulty breathing
- chest pain
Abdominal pain and diarrhea can take a toll on your daily life. With the right diagnosis and treatment plan, you can find relief. Acute cases usually resolve on their own within a few days, while chronic cases may need medical attention.
If you experience severe or persistent symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor. With the right diagnosis and treatment plan, relief is possible.