Any GPs? Traveller's diarrhoea (tmi - sorry)

[Fedupwithmyhairagain]

Not sure if I need to see GP and don't want to waste an appointment if not necessary.

Came back from Latin America 2 weeks ago. Was there for 2 weeks and had no problems but had loose bowels since returning home. Typically I'm 'constipated' as I have slow guy motility & often only empty my bowels 2-3 x week. Since I've been back I started out 5x day but only loose not liquid (but this is clearly far from normal for me). Stools have been liquid at times and now back to loose. Over past two weeks the frequency has slowed to 1-2 x day but still loose and quite smelly stools.

I've had sore throat & fever and also felt quite unwell last week. Writing it down like this I feel I've answered my own question!

I am not a GP, but do know that normal travellers diarrhoea does not go on for weeks.

Maybe you've picked up a parasite of some description. You really need to see the GP & get some tests.

Definitely not a time wasting appointment.
They'll want a stool sample, but they'll give you a special pot to get it.

You need to see the GP asap and also mention that you have been travelling in South America (specify which country/countries as well). It is more than likely that you have picked up some sort of stomach bug from your recent travels, the type (albeit bacterial or parasite based) needs to be properly determined so it can be treated.

Thank you for your replies. I'm working away this week so will book an appointment for Friday & take it from there.

Having googled giardia I suspect it may be what I have. Should I be prioritising a GP visit over work rather than waiting to see GP on Friday? I feel OK in myself at the moment.

Yes, get yourself to the doc.