Chronic diarrhea is a common digestive issue, but it can be debilitating. Not only does it make life difficult, but it may also lead to dehydration.
Diarrhea can be caused by many things, such as eating certain foods and taking medications. Some people experience chronic diarrhea when they have persistent infections or certain medical conditions.
If your diarrhea persists for more than a few days, it’s time to see a doctor. They can run tests to diagnose the source of your issue and provide treatment.
Chronic diarrhea can have several causes, but here are the most common:
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is an intestinal disorder that causes constipation and frequent diarrhea. To treat IBS, doctors may prescribe antidiarrheals such as loperamide; in addition, diet changes or counseling may help improve symptoms.
Traveler’s diarrhea, which occurs when you consume contaminated food or water that has not been properly handled and filtered, can also lead to persistent diarrhea. According to the National Institutes of Health, these kinds of symptoms should be addressed promptly and usually resolved with treatment.
Chronic diarrhea may also be due to ongoing or recurring infections like parasites and bacteria. While these can be treated with antibiotics, they may cause intense diarrhea that prevents you from engaging in normal activities.
Infections that last months or even years may be difficult to identify the source of. Fortunately, your doctor can often accurately pinpoint the source of your diarrhea by testing blood and stool samples for signs of disease.
Chronic diarrhea may be due to underlying medical issues such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Your doctor will collaborate with you in determining the most appropriate course of treatment, which may involve medication or surgery.
Chronic diarrhea can be caused by other conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome. If this is the case for you, your doctor may prescribe medications both to address the underlying condition and alleviate your diarrhea symptoms at once.
Hormonal disorders such as an overactive thyroid or diabetes may contribute to chronic diarrhea. Your doctor may suggest hormone replacement therapy or the use of glucocorticoids, medications that help balance out your body’s natural hormonal system.
Surgery such as gallbladder removal or colon resection can cause chronic diarrhea. These procedures increase bile levels in your digestive tract, making it harder to absorb water and leading to frequent, loose stools.
Certain natural remedies, such as probiotics and fiber supplements, may also be effective for chronic diarrhea. While some of these items can be purchased over the counter, others require a valid prescription to use.
