COVID and GI - Is Diarrhea a Symptom of Corona?

Time to read 3 min

For some individuals that have gotten the coronavirus, there may be some long-term effects that impact the gastrointestinal tract. You can experience diarrhoea, bloating, nausea, and pain as some of the long-term effects of COVID 19 in some cases.


It is best to get a complete blood and stool test done to check for other reasons behind gastric symptoms. You could have an intolerance, allergy, IBS, IBD, or other conditions that could be impacting your gut health.


When asking - is diarrhea a symptom of corona? it is important to get all other tests done prior to diagnosing it as the coronavirus. There may be some digestive symptoms with COVID 19, or GI symptoms present in patients with COVID 19, but this isn't a direct diagnostic protocol.


You would need to get rapid testing done through a nasal swab to determine whether you have the coronavirus. You can also experience difficulty breathing, fatigue, and weakness as more direct symptoms if you have COVID 19.


What are the digestive symptoms of COVID 19?

For someone with COVID they can experience digestive symptoms that can last for several months. You can also check whether these symptoms are as a result of psychological stress, digestive allergies, or infections.

Vomiting

You can experience vomiting as one of the first few signs of COVID related digestive issues.

Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea can also occur when you have COVID, as it can be triggered due to the ACE 2 binding of the coronavirus.

Discomfort

You can experience overall discomfort as well as aches around the body.

Increased abdominal sensitivity

You can experience sensitivity around the belly region. This can be more pronounced in older people.

Pain and nausea

Pain and nausea can also lead to headaches and issues with vitality as well.



Understanding the differences between COVID 19 and gastric conditions

There are critical differences between COVID related gastric issues and other viral gastric conditions. You can experience a different range of symptom groups and find that medication will have to be prescribed accordingly.

Analysing the symptoms

The virus originating in Wuhan China shows respiratory symptoms as the main signs. In COVID 19 patients with mild digestive symptoms, there is an additional component of difficulty breathing. People with COVID will also experience weakness as well as other signs.

Exposure to the virus

If you have been exposed to COVID 19 then you can back-track your exposure route. If you have consumed food with bacteria then you can check your exposure trail. This can help you determine what condition you may have.

Severity of signs

For individuals with gastric issues unrelated to COVID 19, they may experience an increased severity in signs when they consume allergens or have IBS. Doctors et al understand the clinical characteristics of COVID in the case of someone with SARS COV 2 and gastric symptoms.



What's the best approach?

The best approach is to follow a comprehensive check-up and medication based management of diarrhoea and COVID 19. You should also take additional precautions if you are at risk or are managing another medical condition.

Get a complete blood test

A complete blood test will be able to determine the root cause for your diarrhoea. It can also check for antibodies for certain types of bacteria, as well as check for underlying allergen reactions. Your CBC is also important to track if you have COVID.

Stool test for infections

A stool test for H Pylori and other infections is important so that medication can be prescribed. You can start to feel better and rule out COVID if there is an infection detected.

COVID 19 testing

You should also keep testing for COVID so that you're checking your viral load. For mild cases, a simple rest and hydration model is enough. If there is escalation in symptoms then you may have to take more advanced treatment.

Medication for symptoms

You can take painkillers and antibiotics if you are experiencing the signs of an infection. These can help with the symptoms, giving you better relief overall.

Imaging tests for analysis

You should go for imaging tests such as ultrasounds and endoscopy, which can check for internal organ health. This is important for anyone who is over the age of 65 years, as it can reduce your risk factor.



* Medical Disclaimer - The following information is for educational purposes only. No information provided on this website, including text, graphic, and images, are intended as substitutes for professional medical advice. Please consult with your doctor about specific medical advice pertaining to your condition(s).

Tests to consider

Supplements to consider