what can be the cause of diarrhea with horrible stomach cramps and vomiting? It lasts for a week

Hi, guest.

Having diarrhea for a week along with stomach cramps and vomiting can be distressing and uncomfortable.

Gastrointestinal infections, whether viral, bacterial, or parasitic, are common causes of diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. These can often resolve on their own, but in some cases, they may require specific treatments.

Sometimes, these symptoms can be triggered by a reaction to certain foods. Common culprits include lactose, gluten, and certain food additives.

Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause these symptoms, although they usually have other signs and symptoms as well. Also, IBS can cause chronic diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain. It's often a diagnosis of exclusion when other causes are ruled out.

Some medications can cause gastrointestinal disturbances, including antibiotics, which can disturb the normal gut flora.

The fact that your white blood cell count is elevated suggests that your body is responding to some form of stress or infection. This is a common response to many different conditions, not necessarily limited to infections.

For management and relief:

• Hydration: With ongoing diarrhea, it's crucial to stay hydrated. Oral rehydration solutions can be helpful.
• Diet: Eating bland, easy-to-digest foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet) can be soothing.
• Probiotics: These can sometimes help in restoring gut flora, especially if your symptoms are related to antibiotic use.
• Follow-Up Care: It's important to keep in touch with your healthcare provider. If symptoms persist or worsen, or if new symptoms appear, you should seek medical attention.

Since your ER visits haven't provided a clear diagnosis, a follow-up with a gastroenterologist might be beneficial. They can offer more specialized testing and treatment options. Your symptoms, while possibly indicative of a common gastrointestinal issue, could also be a sign of something more complex, so ongoing medical evaluation is important.