Inflamed colon

[kdbush56]

This is a question about my son's friend in Mexico with him.  My son is studying abroad and teaching in Merida, Mexico and will be home this month.  He just told me that one of the other students has had diarrhea the entire 2 months so far and had to be hospitalized and has inflamed colon.  My son is wondering if he should be tested for any type of parasites when he gets home.  So far, he hasn't had any gastro problems.  Thanks for your advice.

[kdbush56]

My son has no symptoms, is just worried because he's been in Mexico for 2 1/2 months, and his friend ended up sick.  Is there any reason for him to be tested if he has no symptoms?  

[Ratnakar Kini]

Hi,
Two months of diarrhea indicates chronic diarrhea. If there is significant weight loss, he may have to be tested for malabsorption syndromes which has various different causes.
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The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.

- Ratnakar Kini M.D