
What Causes Diarrhea After Taking Antibiotics?

Question: I had diarehha After three rounds of antibiotics for a tooth 6 weeks ago. Followed by constipation. In last two weeks bowels have normalized but I have An off and on pinching feeling in left low abdomen. Went to NP today who took xray and said I either have a lot of backed up poop or a large bowel blockage. I came home and took a very large noRmal poop They have been normal for several weeks in size and consistency. I have no other issues at all. Could I have a blockage ?
Brief Answer:
Blockage less likely
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for posting your query.
I am Dr.R.K and I am pleased to assist you.
You developed diarrhea following antibiotic treatment which is one of the side effects of antibiotc treatment.
But there is no reason why you have to develop constipation after that unless you had taken antidiarrheal medications or didnt take enough fluids or fibers.
Since you cleared the bowel and the bowel movements are normalized, blockage is less likely.
You have a recent onset constipation.
Since you are more than 50 years, I advise you to get a colonoscopy done.
Regards,
Dr.R.K
Blockage less likely
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for posting your query.
I am Dr.R.K and I am pleased to assist you.
You developed diarrhea following antibiotic treatment which is one of the side effects of antibiotc treatment.
But there is no reason why you have to develop constipation after that unless you had taken antidiarrheal medications or didnt take enough fluids or fibers.
Since you cleared the bowel and the bowel movements are normalized, blockage is less likely.
You have a recent onset constipation.
Since you are more than 50 years, I advise you to get a colonoscopy done.
Regards,
Dr.R.K
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee


Thanks. What would cause off and on low left abdomen pinch type feeling? More annoying that true pain. More like a 2 on pain scale ?
Brief Answer:
Cosntipation
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for getting back to me with more questions.
Constipation and loaded rectum can cause discomfort in the lower abdomen.
A good bowel movement will relieve this discomfort.
Constipation may also also diverticulosis in colon which may get infected causing diverticulitis which typically causes pain in the left lower abdomen. A course of antibiotic would provide relief in this case.
Let me know if you have any more questions.
Regards,
Dr.R.K.
Cosntipation
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for getting back to me with more questions.
Constipation and loaded rectum can cause discomfort in the lower abdomen.
A good bowel movement will relieve this discomfort.
Constipation may also also diverticulosis in colon which may get infected causing diverticulitis which typically causes pain in the left lower abdomen. A course of antibiotic would provide relief in this case.
Let me know if you have any more questions.
Regards,
Dr.R.K.
Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Deepak

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