Battling Ongoing Bloating and Diarrhoea? Uncover the Cause with At-Home Gut Health Testing

Are Bloating, Diarrhoea, or Stomach Discomfort Ruining Your Day?

Many of us experience the occasional upset tummy, but when symptoms like bloating, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, or nausea linger for days or weeks, it’s natural to worry. Persistent digestive discomfort can disrupt work, social life, and overall wellbeing. But what’s behind these symptoms – food, stress, or an underlying infection?

What Causes Ongoing Digestive Complaints?

Common causes include:

• Viral or bacterial gut infections (from contaminated food or water)
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or food intolerances
• Chronic conditions like coeliac disease or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Recent travel abroad

UK residents can pick up infections from vacation destinations or even locally after eating poorly cooked food or unwashed vegetables.

How Does a PCR Gut Pathogen Test Work?

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) technology detects tiny amounts of DNA or RNA from viruses, bacteria, and parasites in your stool. Unlike traditional tests that may miss certain bugs, a PCR test can accurately detect a wide range of pathogens – including Norovirus, Salmonella, Campylobacter, E. coli and more – all from a home sample.

It's easy: collect a stool sample in the privacy of your home using our secure kit, post it to our accredited UK lab, and receive results in just 2 days.

What Steps Can You Take Today to Help Your Digestion?

• Eat plenty of fibre-rich foods and stay hydrated
• Wash hands before meals and after using the loo
• Cook foods thoroughly to prevent food poisoning
• If symptoms persist beyond a week, consider testing for pathogens

When Should You Consider a Home Gut Pathogen Test?

If you have:

• Diarrhoea or stomach cramps lasting more than a few days
• Recently travelled or experienced food poisoning symptoms
• Blood in your stool or sudden weight loss

It’s time to act. Identifying the cause helps guide the right treatment and can bring peace of mind.

Learn more about our At-Home Gastrointestinal Pathogen PCR Test and order your kit today.

Prefer in-person testing? Book a consultation at one of our UK clinics.

More digestive health guidance is available from the NHS A-Z.