Most people have experienced the sudden onset of diarrhea, which can be disruptive, uncomfortable, and a potential sign of a contagious illness. The question of whether it is appropriate to call out of work if you have diarrhea is a common concern. Beyond the personal discomfort and need for frequent bathroom access, the primary reason for staying home is to prevent the spread of infection to coworkers and, if applicable, customers. Health professionals strongly advise this, especially for certain professions.
The Health and Safety Reasons to Stay Home
The most important reason to stay home is to protect others. Many causes of diarrhea are infectious and spread easily from person to person through poor hygiene or contaminated surfaces. Norovirus, for example, is a highly contagious stomach virus that spreads rapidly in close quarters like an office setting. By taking a sick day, you prevent your workplace from becoming a vector for an outbreak. This responsibility is heightened for certain professions.
High-Risk Occupations
If you work in healthcare or the food service industry, staying home with diarrhea is not just a courtesy but often a legal and ethical requirement. State and local health regulations may explicitly forbid food handlers or healthcare workers from coming to work until they are symptom-free for a certain period, typically 24 to 48 hours. Ignoring these rules could put vulnerable patients or the general public at serious risk.
Communicating with Your Employer
When calling in sick, you don’t need to provide a graphic account of your symptoms. Most managers prefer a brief and professional explanation. The goal is to be clear that you are unwell and will not be coming in, without oversharing personal medical details. Common phrases include:
- "I'm dealing with a stomach bug and won't be able to come in today."
- "I woke up feeling unwell with some digestive issues and need to take a sick day."
- "I believe I have food poisoning and need to recover at home."
Keep the conversation short, and focus on when you expect to return to work. For persistent or severe symptoms, you might mention that you will keep them updated after consulting with a doctor.
Know Your Company's Policy
Every workplace has its own rules for calling out sick. Before you call, it's wise to review your company's employee handbook. Policies often specify the required mode of communication (phone call, email, or internal chat) and the required advance notice. While many employers respect privacy, some may require a doctor's note for extended absences.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most cases of diarrhea resolve on their own with rest and hydration, certain symptoms warrant a call to a doctor. This is especially true if you experience:
- High fever
- Signs of dehydration, such as excessive thirst, infrequent urination, or dizziness
- Diarrhea that lasts more than three days
- Severe abdominal pain
- Black or bloody stool
A doctor can help diagnose the underlying cause and determine if specific treatment or additional time off is needed.
Infectious vs. Non-Infectious Diarrhea
| Feature | Infectious Diarrhea (e.g., Stomach Flu, Food Poisoning) | Non-Infectious Diarrhea (e.g., IBS, Stress) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Cause | Viruses (like norovirus), bacteria (like E. coli, Salmonella), or parasites. | Stress, food intolerances, chronic conditions (like Crohn's), or medication side effects. |
| Duration | Often acute (short-term), resolving within a few days. | Can be acute or chronic, depending on the underlying cause. |
| Contagion Risk | High. Easily spread to others through contaminated surfaces or poor hygiene. | None. Cannot be transmitted to other people. |
| Return to Work | Recommended to wait 24-48 hours after symptoms cease to prevent spread. | Can return to work when physically able, as no contagion risk exists. |
| Accompanying Symptoms | May include fever, vomiting, and chills. | Symptoms are often more localized to the GI tract without systemic signs of infection. |
Tips for a Quick Recovery and Safe Return
To aid your recovery and ensure a smooth return to work, consider these steps:
- Hydrate Properly: Diarrhea causes significant fluid loss. Drinking plenty of water, broth, and electrolyte-rich beverages is crucial to prevent dehydration.
- Rest: Your body needs energy to fight off the infection. Resting at home allows for a faster recovery.
- Eat Bland Foods: Stick to easily digestible foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet) until your symptoms subside.
- Practice Excellent Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, especially after using the bathroom.
- Notify Your Employer Promptly: Give your boss as much notice as possible so they can arrange for coverage.
- Disinfect Surfaces: If you suspect an infectious cause, disinfect high-touch surfaces in your home to prevent infecting family members.
Conclusion
Calling out of work for diarrhea is a valid and responsible decision, protecting not only your own health but also that of your colleagues and the wider community. Most cases of acute diarrhea can be infectious, making your absence a vital measure for public health. By communicating professionally, knowing your company's policy, and prioritizing your recovery, you can manage the situation responsibly and return to work when you are fully well and no longer a risk to others. Remember, resting at home is often the fastest route back to health and productivity.
