Preparing for an appointment

If you or your child needs to see a doctor, you'll likely see your primary care provider first. If there are questions about the diagnosis, your doctor may refer you to a gastroenterologist or an infectious diseases specialist.

What you can do

Preparing a list of questions will help you make the most of your time with your doctor. Some questions you might want to ask your doctor or your child's doctor include:

• What's the likely cause of these symptoms? Are there other possible causes?
• Is there a need for tests?
• What's the best treatment approach? Are there any alternatives?
• Is there a need to take any medicine?
• How can I ease the symptoms?

What to expect from your doctor

Some questions the doctor may ask include:

• When did symptoms begin?
• Have the symptoms been continuous, or do they come and go?
• How severe are the symptoms?
• Does anything seem to improve the symptoms?
• What, if anything, appears to worsen symptoms?

What you can do in the meantime

Drink plenty of fluids. Resume eating a healthy diet, restricting sugars and fats, as soon as possible. If your child is sick, follow the same approach.

If you're breastfeeding or using formula, continue to feed your child as usual. Ask your child's doctor if giving your child an oral rehydration fluid is appropriate.