When should the ER be visited for lower backache accompanied by diarrhea?
Patient: Hi, I have been having pain in my lower left side that started in my back and kinda expanded over my hip bone towards my groin area. That pain has stayed and I have also started having some pretty severe nausea and diarrhea. I had an ultra sound and x ray done last week but do not have the results yet. The pain, diarrhea and nausea have been getting worse. When should I go to the emergency room. Doctor: Hello and Welcome to 'Ask A Doctor' service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.  Considering the lower back pain that radiates to the groin area, the fact that you have symptoms of nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, in my opinion this might be a bacterial gastroenteritis. Gastroenteritis is usually accompanied by these symptoms, but if the symptoms continue for more than 4 days and you haven't taken probiotics and oral rehydration solutions you should go to the ER for IV therapy and further treatment. You should also consider starting antibiotic treatment (Ciprofloxacin) for some days. You can use Buscopan for abdominal pain and Ranitidine.  Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.