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Concerned about symptoms?
Most patients are seen within one to two weeks at Cobalt Hospital.
Secretary
RELATED
IBS
Crohn’s Disease
Coeliac Disease
Colonoscopy
TRUSTED INFORMATION
Independent national charity, diarrhoea and bowel symptom guidance.
What is diarrhoea?
A common symptom that is usually short-lived, but persistent diarrhoea deserves proper investigation.
Diarrhoea causes in Newcastle range from a passing infection to a longer-term digestive condition. Diarrhoea means passing loose or watery stools more often than normal. Short episodes usually settle on their own, but diarrhoea lasting weeks needs proper investigation.
Diarrhoea that lasts beyond a few weeks needs a structured approach to find the cause. Dr Kejariwal provides this for patients across Newcastle, Durham, North Tyneside, Gateshead and Sunderland.
Causes and risk factors
Short-term diarrhoea is most often caused by infections or food-related triggers. Persistent diarrhoea more often links to conditions such as IBS, IBD, or coeliac disease, according to Crohn's & Colitis UK (2026).
Symptoms
- Loose, watery stools
- Passing stools more frequently than usual
- Urgency to reach a toilet quickly
- Abdominal cramping
- Mucus or blood mixed with the stool, in some cases
When to seek help: See a specialist for diarrhoea lasting more than a few weeks, or sooner with blood or weight loss.
How is diarrhoea diagnosed?
Investigation typically includes stool tests for infection or inflammation, called faecal calprotectin. Blood tests follow, and a colonoscopy may rule out IBD or coeliac disease.
What are the treatment options?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause once identified. This ranges from dietary changes for IBS to targeted treatment for inflammatory or infective causes. Dr Kejariwal identifies the cause before recommending treatment.
Living with diarrhoea in 2026
Short episodes of diarrhoea are extremely common and usually resolve without specific treatment. Diarrhoea persisting beyond two to three weeks warrants proper investigation, rather than relying solely on anti-diarrhoeal medication.
Self-care and prevention
Stay well hydrated and use oral rehydration solutions if needed. Eat plain, easily digestible foods as symptoms settle. Good hand hygiene helps avoid spreading any underlying infection.
What happens at your appointment?
You meet Dr Kejariwal at Cobalt Hospital for a full consultation. He reviews your symptoms, history, and any past tests. He explains what he thinks is happening in plain English. Together you agree a clear next step, whether that means more tests, starting treatment, or simple monitoring. A written summary goes to you and your GP after every visit. Most patients are seen within one to two weeks, and urgent concerns are prioritised.
When to see a specialist
See a specialist for diarrhoea lasting more than a few weeks, sooner if it contains blood or comes with severe pain.
Frequently asked questions about diarrhoea
When does diarrhoea need investigating?
If it lasts more than a few weeks, recurs often, or comes with blood or weight loss, get it investigated.
What conditions commonly cause persistent diarrhoea?
Common causes include IBS, inflammatory bowel disease, coeliac disease, and, less commonly, infections or other digestive conditions.
Can antibiotics cause diarrhoea?
Yes. Antibiotics can disrupt gut bacteria and commonly cause diarrhoea, which usually settles once the course finishes.
How long is diarrhoea considered normal before seeing a doctor?
More than a few days in adults, or beyond two to three weeks, should generally be assessed, sooner with concerning symptoms.