At the The Midlands Bowel Clinic, we understand how uncomfortable and disruptive diarrhoea can be. If you’ve been experiencing frequent, loose or watery bowel movements, especially if it’s lasted more than a few days, it’s important to get checked by a specialist. Diarrhoea can be caused by a wide range of conditions – from common stomach bugs to more serious bowel issues – and we’re here to help you find answers.
What is diarrhoea?
Diarrhoea is defined as passing loose or watery stools more often than normal. You may also feel the need to rush to the toilet urgently, have stomach cramps, or notice mucus in your stool. In some cases, diarrhoea may alternate with constipation.
Occasional diarrhoea is usually nothing to worry about, but ongoing or severe diarrhoea can lead to dehydration and may indicate an underlying condition that needs treatment.
Common causes of diarrhoea
- Viral or bacterial infections – such as norovirus, food poisoning or gastroenteritis
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) – a common condition that affects how your gut works
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) – including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
- Coeliac disease – an autoimmune condition triggered by gluten
- Food intolerances – such as lactose intolerance or sensitivity to certain additives
- Medications – including antibiotics, certain blood pressure tablets, and chemotherapy
- Stress and anxiety – emotional triggers can affect your digestive system
When to see a bowel specialist
You should book an appointment if you experience any of the following:
- Diarrhoea lasting more than 7 days
- Blood or mucus in your stool
- Severe tummy pain or cramping
- Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Night-time diarrhoea that disturbs your sleep
If you’ve noticed a recent change in your bowel habits, especially if you’re over 50 or have a family history of bowel problems, don’t wait to get checked.
How we investigate diarrhoea
At The Midlands Bowel Clinic, we offer a full range of investigations to find the cause of your diarrhoea, including:
- Blood tests to check for inflammation, anaemia or infection
- Stool tests to identify bacteria, parasites or signs of inflammation
- Coeliac disease screening
- Endoscopy (such as colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy) to look directly at the bowel lining
- Imaging such as ultrasound or MRI if needed
Treatment options
Your treatment will depend on what’s causing your symptoms. For many patients, diarrhoea improves once the underlying issue is identified and managed. Treatment options may include:
- Medication to treat inflammation, infection, or control symptoms
- Advice on diet and fluid intake
- Support from a dietitian if food intolerance or coeliac disease is suspected
- Ongoing care and monitoring for chronic conditions like IBD
Why choose The The Midlands Bowel Clinic?
Our expert team includes leading consultant gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons who specialise in diagnosing and treating all types of bowel conditions. We offer fast access to tests, tailored treatment plans, and compassionate care throughout your journey.
Contact us
If you’re worried about diarrhoea or any other bowel symptoms, don’t wait. Contact The Midlands Bowel Clinic today to book a consultation and get the answers you need. We’re here to help.
