Infectious Diarrhea

Introduction: Why Infectious Diarrhea Needs a Root-Cause Approach

Infectious diarrhea isn’t just a temporary inconvenience—it can indicate an underlying imbalance in your gut health and immune defenses. At Patients Medical in New York City, our integrative physicians go beyond just relieving symptoms. We identify the microbial causes of diarrhea and help your body recover naturally using functional medicine testing and holistic therapies.

What Is Infectious Diarrhea?

Infectious diarrhea is caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites that disrupt normal intestinal function. While acute cases may resolve in days, chronic or recurring infections can trigger long-term gastrointestinal issues like leaky gut, nutrient deficiencies, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Common Infectious Agents:

  • Viruses: Norovirus, Rotavirus, Adenovirus
  • Bacteria: Salmonella, E. coli, Shigella, Campylobacter

Parasites: Giardia, Cryptosporidium, Entamoeba histolytica

Common Symptoms of Infectious Diarrhea

  • Loose or watery stools
  • Abdominal cramps or bloating
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fever or chills
  • Fatigue and dehydration
  • Urgency or incontinence

If symptoms last more than 48 hours or are accompanied by blood in the stool, medical attention is necessary.

Root Causes: Why Are You Getting Sick?

Functional medicine focuses on why your immune system may be more vulnerable to pathogens. Factors we evaluate include:

Diagnostic Testing We Use

At Patients Medical, we don’t guess—we test. We use advanced labs to pinpoint the source and assess your gut ecosystem:

✅ Comprehensive stool analysis (parasites, pathogens, H. pylori)

✅ Gut microbiome DNA testing

✅ Zonulin and leaky gut markers

✅ Food sensitivity panels

✅ Inflammatory markers (calprotectin, CRP)

✅ Immunoglobulin levels (IgA, IgG, IgM)

✅ Nutrient absorption testing (zinc, B12, iron)

Integrative Treatment Solutions for Infectious Diarrhea

Nutritional Therapy

We tailor your diet to reduce inflammation and rebalance your microbiome:

  • BRAT or FODMAP-guided food plans
  • Bone broth and mucilaginous herbs for gut lining support
  • Rehydration protocols with electrolytes and trace minerals

Targeted Herbal & Antimicrobial Therapies

Based on test results, we may use natural antimicrobial supplements:

  • Oregano oil, berberine, black walnut, or grapefruit seed extract
  • GI-cleansing protocols
  • Probiotic and prebiotic rebalancing

IV Nutrient Therapy

Custom IVs restore hydration and immune function:

  • B-complex, Vitamin C, magnesium, glutathione
  • Zinc and trace minerals for mucosal repair

Stress and Immune Support

We help modulate stress and rebuild immune defenses:

  • Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha or holy basil
  • Acupuncture and guided meditation
  • Cortisol and adrenal hormone balancing

Real Case Study: Ahmed’s Recovery After Travel

Ahmed, 34, returned from an international trip with severe diarrhea and fatigue. Initial ER visits only treated symptoms. At Patients Medical, we found Giardia through advanced stool DNA testing. After a 6-week integrative plan with:

  • Antiparasitic herbs
  • Gut-healing L-glutamine
  • Targeted probiotics
  • IV rehydration support

Ahmed fully recovered, gained back 8 lbs, and restored his energy within two months.

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

Contaminated food or water containing bacteria, viruses, or parasites is the most common source.

Yes. If not treated properly, it can lead to chronic gut issues like IBS, dysbiosis, or leaky gut.

We use advanced stool panels and immune testing to identify pathogens, inflammation, and imbalance.

Not always. In many cases, herbal antimicrobials and natural therapies are sufficient and safer for the gut.

We are out-of-network but provide superbills for reimbursement. Many labs are partially covered.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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