Diarrhea is a common digestive issue that most adults experience at some point. In many cases, it resolves on its own within a few days. However, when diarrhea becomes frequent, severe, or persistent, it can signal an underlying condition that requires medical attention. Knowing the common causes of diarrhea and recognizing warning signs can help you decide when home care is enough and when visiting urgent care is the safer choice.
For same-day illness treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen. Our medical team is available 7 days a week to provide symptom relief to all patients in the Aberdeen, NJ area. Just walk-in or plan your visit in advance below.
What Causes Diarrhea in Adults?
Diarrhea occurs when the digestive system is unable to absorb enough water from stool, resulting in loose or watery bowel movements. This can be triggered by infections, medications, food sensitivities, or digestive disorders. Stress and anxiety may also affect gut function, causing short-term diarrhea. While occasional episodes are usually harmless, repeated or prolonged diarrhea can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance if not properly managed.
Infectious Diarrhea
Infectious diarrhea is caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites that enter the body through contaminated food, water, or close contact with infected individuals. Viral infections are the most common cause and often resolve within a few days. Bacterial or parasitic infections, however, may cause more severe symptoms such as fever, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, or bloody stools. These cases may require medical testing and targeted treatment, especially if symptoms worsen or persist.
Medication Side Effects
Certain medications can irritate the digestive tract and cause diarrhea as a side effect. Antibiotics are a frequent culprit because they disrupt the balance of healthy gut bacteria. Other medications, including antacids with magnesium, chemotherapy drugs, and some blood pressure medications, may also trigger loose stools. If diarrhea begins shortly after starting a new medication or becomes ongoing, a healthcare provider can help determine whether an adjustment or alternative treatment is needed.
Food Allergies
Food allergies or intolerances can also lead to diarrhea, often accompanied by bloating, gas, or stomach pain. Common triggers include dairy, gluten, shellfish, and artificial sweeteners. Symptoms may appear shortly after eating and improve once the trigger food is avoided. In some cases, food-related diarrhea may be mistaken for infection, making proper evaluation important especially if symptoms are recurring or severe.
When Is It the Right Time to Visit Urgent Care?
You should visit urgent care if diarrhea lasts longer than three days, is accompanied by high fever, severe abdominal pain, blood in the stool, or signs of dehydration such as dizziness, dry mouth, or reduced urination. Urgent care is also appropriate for older adults, people with weakened immune systems, or anyone unable to keep fluids down. Urgent care centers provide prompt evaluation, testing, and treatment to prevent complications and help you recover safely and quickly.
Get Walk-In Illness Testing & Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen
Are you dealing with diarrhea or other illness symptoms? Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen for same-day treatment! Our urgent care center operates on a walk-in basis, allowing those with the busiest schedules to stop by at their convenience– and we’re open 7 days a week! Our team is dedicated to providing the most exceptional urgent care to those who need it. We accept most health insurance plans and offer cost-effective options to self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about treatment, or other services we provide, please contact our medical team directly at (732) 583-5100.
