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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Abdominal Cramps, Diarrhea And Blackish Stool?

Hi. I am a female, age 35 years suffering from abdominal cramping and diarrhea with black stool (first time). My husband and I recently traveled abroad to DR and we are not sure if my symptoms are from traveling. I have experienced these symptoms for about three days now. Would you mind shedding some light on what this condition might be. Thank you.
Wed, 21 Jan 2015
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi!
How are you?
You might have acquired a parasitic infection known as Schistosomiasis.

With a history of travel to DR and the problems getting soon after returning from that country are highly suggestive of Schistosomiasis.

Infection occurs through contact with contaminated water with the parasite in open bodies of water.
On contact with humans, the parasite burrows into the skin, matures into another stage then migrates to the lungs and liver, where it matures into the adult form.
The adult worm then migrates to its preferred body part, depending on its species. These areas include the bladder, rectum, intestines, liver, etc.
causing blood in the stools (which gets darkened), blood in the urine, etc.

This infection responds to the drug Praziquantal. Kindly consult your physician for the confirmation and further management.
Nothing to worry, it gets cured following a complete course of Praziquantal.

Take care.
Regards!
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What Causes Abdominal Cramps, Diarrhea And Blackish Stool?

Hi! How are you? You might have acquired a parasitic infection known as Schistosomiasis. With a history of travel to DR and the problems getting soon after returning from that country are highly suggestive of Schistosomiasis. Infection occurs through contact with contaminated water with the parasite in open bodies of water. On contact with humans, the parasite burrows into the skin, matures into another stage then migrates to the lungs and liver, where it matures into the adult form. The adult worm then migrates to its preferred body part, depending on its species. These areas include the bladder, rectum, intestines, liver, etc. causing blood in the stools (which gets darkened), blood in the urine, etc. This infection responds to the drug Praziquantal. Kindly consult your physician for the confirmation and further management. Nothing to worry, it gets cured following a complete course of Praziquantal. Take care. Regards!