What could cause sudden stomach pain and diarrhea?

Question

Hi doctor,

My father's age is 59. He is a diabetic patient. He suddenly got a severe stomach ache and passed loose stools. He also sweated more and felt lightheaded. I feel that he is abnormal.

He refuses to go to the hospital and he believes that if there is pain in the chest, then it is a heart attack. Is this a symptom of a heart attack or food poisoning? If it is a symptom of a heart attack, then what is the immediate remedy that can be done at home before we go to the hospital? Can we use Ecosprin?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have noted all your father's details.

Most likely the symptoms are because of acute gastroenteritis. Cardiac origin of pain usually radiates to the epigastric region only and the full abdomen is not included. The loose stools shift the diagnosis towards gastroenteritis.

Do not give Ecosprin (Aspirin) rather give him some oral rehydration solution. I suggest tablet Norflox TZ (Norfloxacin and Tinidazole) twice daily, capsule Racecadotril 100 mg thrice daily along with an antispasmodic like Spasmonil (Dicyclomine and Dimethicone) twice daily. An ECG should be taken to rule out cardiac involvement. At home, give him a sugar solution with some salt in it and take him to the ER (emergency room).

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.