Q What are the warning signs of severe diarrhea that mean I must go to a hospital?
A If you have bloody stool, high fever, or unrelenting severe vomiting, go to a medical facility immediately. Signs of severe dehydration—almost no urine and a very dry mouth—also require prompt care.
Detailed Answer
Most acute diarrhea is not dangerous, but in the following cases you must seek care without delay. ① Bloody stool, ② a high fever of 38°C or above, and ③ unrelenting severe vomiting are warning signs requiring immediate medical attention. Also, severe dehydration signs—little to no urination, a parched mouth and tongue, and a rapid loss of energy—as well as continuous unexplained weight loss or diarrhea that won't stop, call for urgent evaluation.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
Children and the elderly are especially at risk, as dehydration progresses quickly and can lead to electrolyte imbalance or acute kidney impairment. When these warning signs appear, emergency care takes priority over Korean medicine treatment; once safety is confirmed, Korean medicine management for recovery and relapse prevention can follow.
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