Do ladybug ingestion cause diarrhea and loose stools?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have had loose or liquid stools for almost a year. When I have specific meals, I need to use the bathroom immediately. This evening, I noticed a dead bug in the stool. The bug looks like a ladybug with a dark green shell and dark spots rather than bright colored. The bug is missing its head, but its body is intact, with legs. Are bugs causing my diarrhea? Will the bug be digested? Can diarrhea occur due to worms or parasites? I had pinworms when I was a kid and underwent treatment. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query, and I can understand your concern.

I have reviewed your reports (attachment removed to protect the patient’s identity). It does look like a digested ladybird. However, it needs to be sliced open and seen under a microscope to confirm. When the bug passes through the gut, its color may change but not its shape. The bug is not the cause of your loose stools. The parasites that you had as a kid were human parasites and are not the same. However, I am concerned regarding your loose stools for one year. Get it checked by a local doctor. Further details on symptoms evolution, dietary practices, drug abuse, tattoos, sexual practices, and day-to-day lifestyle can help with diagnosis.

I hope the information helps.

Thank you.