When Should I See a Doctor for an Upset Stomach?

Family Medicine, Primary Care Roots Community Health Center, Hippo Education, Kameda Medical Center

Supervised by Kenji Taylor, MD

Generally, you should see a doctor if you are: 1. Unable to keep any liquids down for more than a day at a time 2. Develop fevers and intensely worsening abdominal pain 3. Notice blood in your stools or vomit.

Explanation

Many upset stomachs can be from a minor viral illness, mild food poisoning or just food that doesn’t sit well with your digestion. However, several other more dangerous illnesses can also start out with mild symptoms. If you notice your symptoms worsening quickly or severely, or are unable to stay hydrated by small regular amounts of fluid, see your health care provider.

If you are concerned about your upset stomach, it is never wrong to seek further medical attention.

(References)

Viniol A, Keunecke C, Biroga T, Stadje R, Dornieden K, Bösner S, Donner-Banzhoff N, Haasenritter J, Becker A. Studies of the symptom abdominal pain--a systematic review and meta-analysis. Fam Pract. 2014 Oct;31(5):517-29. doi: 10.1093/fampra/cmu036. Epub 2014 Jul 1. PMID: 24987023.

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