Vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain

Vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain are common symptoms that can be caused by a wide range of underlying conditions. At the London Urgent Care Centre (LUCC), we understand how distressing and disruptive these symptoms can be, especially when they come on suddenly or worsen over time. Our clinical team is here to assess your condition quickly, offer symptom relief, and identify whether further treatment or referral is needed.

In many cases, vomiting and diarrhoea are the result of mild, self-limiting illnesses such as viral gastroenteritis (often referred to as a stomach bug), food poisoning, or a temporary reaction to something you’ve eaten. These can usually be managed with supportive care, including rest, hydration, and targeted medication. However, when symptoms are severe, prolonged, or accompanied by other warning signs—such as a high fever, dehydration, blood in the stool, or severe abdominal pain—it’s important to seek medical attention without delay.

At LUCC, we begin by taking a full history of your symptoms and performing a physical examination. We will check for signs of dehydration, such as:

• Low blood pressure
• Rapid heartbeat
• Dry mouth

In cases where dehydration is present, we may offer oral rehydration therapy or advise on fluid intake to help restore balance. Anti-nausea medication or anti-diarrhoeal treatments may also be prescribed when appropriate, helping you feel more comfortable and start your recovery sooner.

In addition to infections, abdominal discomfort can be caused by non-infectious gastrointestinal conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), indigestion, or food intolerances. Our clinicians are trained to recognise patterns that suggest functional bowel issues and can offer practical advice on lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and symptom management strategies.

However, not all abdominal pain is minor. In some cases, it may be a sign of a more serious condition. For example, abdominal pain could stem from urinary tract infections (UTIs), gallstones, kidney infections, or early appendicitis. Our team is skilled at identifying the so-called “red flags” that may indicate the need for urgent imaging, blood tests, or hospital referral. These warning signs may include:

• Persistent or worsening pain
• Pain localised to the lower right side of the abdomen
• High fever
• Pain accompanied by vomiting that does not subside

Where appropriate, we can arrange for further diagnostic testing or fast-track referral to hospital services for conditions that may require surgical intervention, while ensuring that you are cared for safely in the meantime.