Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Persistent Diarrhea And Loss Of Appetite In 92 Year Old Man?
Question: My dad is 92 and has had diahrea over a month. no fever, some loss of appetite..he exercises daily."feels fair"
when will i receive a response??
when will i receive a response??
Brief Answer:
Considerations
Detailed Answer:
hello and thank you for sending the question.
I am sorry to hear that your dad has been experiencing the diarrhea for over a month. There are a couple of considerations here and I think you should follow up with a primary care physician for further diagnostic considerations.
One possibility is that he may be experiencing a bacterial colitiswhich has thrown off the normal balance of bacteria in his system. Sometimes a course of antibiotics will help to alleviate this particular issue.
Another consideration is some degree of malabsorption at this point it is very important also for him to maintain adequate hydration with fluids and electrolytes in order to restore fluid lost from the diarrhea.
Again at this time I would encourage you to have him see his local physician for a focus consultation and physical examination. Laboratory studies including a possible culture of his stool might be helpful in determining the diagnosis and approach to treatment.
Sincerely,
Dr Galamaga
Considerations
Detailed Answer:
hello and thank you for sending the question.
I am sorry to hear that your dad has been experiencing the diarrhea for over a month. There are a couple of considerations here and I think you should follow up with a primary care physician for further diagnostic considerations.
One possibility is that he may be experiencing a bacterial colitiswhich has thrown off the normal balance of bacteria in his system. Sometimes a course of antibiotics will help to alleviate this particular issue.
Another consideration is some degree of malabsorption at this point it is very important also for him to maintain adequate hydration with fluids and electrolytes in order to restore fluid lost from the diarrhea.
Again at this time I would encourage you to have him see his local physician for a focus consultation and physical examination. Laboratory studies including a possible culture of his stool might be helpful in determining the diagnosis and approach to treatment.
Sincerely,
Dr Galamaga
Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
