What is the duration of diarrhea that is considered abnormal?

From the Guidelines

Diarrhea lasting more than 7 days is generally considered not normal and warrants medical attention. According to the 2017 Infectious Diseases Society of America clinical practice guidelines for the diagnosis and management of infectious diarrhea 1, acute watery diarrhea and acute bloody diarrhea typically last less than 7 days. Prolonged diarrhea is defined as lasting 7-13 days, persistent diarrhea as lasting 14-29 days, and chronic diarrhea as lasting 30 days or longer. It is essential to seek medical attention if diarrhea persists beyond 7 days, especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, severe abdominal pain, bloody stools, or signs of dehydration.

Some key points to consider when experiencing diarrhea include:

• Staying hydrated with water, clear broths, or oral rehydration solutions like Pedialyte 1
• Avoiding dairy products, caffeine, alcohol, and high-fiber foods temporarily
• Being aware of the risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which can become serious health issues, particularly in children, elderly people, and those with compromised immune systems 1
• Recognizing that persistent diarrhea may indicate an underlying condition that requires specific treatment 1

It is crucial to note that the management of diarrheal illness should focus on avoiding dehydration by ensuring adequate fluid and electrolyte intake for replacement and maintenance 1. Additionally, the use of antimicrobial and antimotility drugs should be appropriate, as increasing resistance to these agents and the risk of worsening illness can occur 1.

From the FDA Drug Label

The FDA drug label does not answer the question.

From the Research

Definition of Normal Diarrhea Duration

• Diarrhea is a common symptom that can be caused by various factors, including infections, inflammatory bowel disease, and other gastrointestinal disorders 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
• The duration of diarrhea can vary depending on the underlying cause, but in general, acute diarrhea typically lasts for a few days to a week 3, 6.

When Diarrhea is Not Normal

• Diarrhea that lasts for more than 7-10 days can be considered abnormal and may require medical attention 3, 5.
• Other signs that diarrhea is not normal include:
  • Blood in the stool
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Fever
  • Vomiting
  • Signs of dehydration, such as excessive thirst, dark urine, and dizziness 2, 4, 5.
• In patients with inflammatory bowel disease, diarrhea can be a chronic symptom that requires ongoing management and treatment 5.

Treatment of Diarrhea

• Loperamide is an effective treatment for acute diarrhea, including traveler's diarrhea and diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome 2, 3, 4, 6.
• Loperamide can be used to reduce the frequency of diarrhea and the time until the diarrhea stops, without increasing the risk of severe complications 3, 6.
• Other treatments for diarrhea may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and dietary changes, depending on the underlying cause of the diarrhea 5, 6.