Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Diarrhea is the body's way of clearing out toxins, infections, or irritants from the digestive system. It can result from infections, food intolerance, medications, or chronic illnesses. Common symptoms include frequent bowel movements, abdominal cramps, dehydration, and nausea. Treatment includes hydration, dietary adjustments, and medication when necessary.

Causes of Diarrhea

• Infections: Viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections from contaminated food or water.
• Food intolerances: Lactose intolerance, gluten sensitivity, or artificial sweeteners.
• Medications: Antibiotics, laxatives, and certain cancer treatments.
• Chronic conditions: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, or celiac disease.
• Dietary choices: Excessive caffeine, alcohol, fatty foods, or spicy meals.
• Stress and anxiety: Can affect gut health and trigger diarrhea.

Symptoms of Diarrhea

• Frequent, loose, or watery stools
• Abdominal pain or cramps
• Bloating and gas
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever in cases of infection
• Dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, dark urine)

What is Constant Diarrhea a Sign Of?

Chronic diarrhea lasting more than four weeks may indicate:

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Food intolerances (e.g., lactose, gluten)
• Chronic infections (e.g., parasites, bacterial overgrowth)
• Endocrine disorders (e.g., hyperthyroidism, diabetes)

Sudden Watery Diarrhea

Sudden watery diarrhea is often caused by:

• Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
• Food poisoning
• Bacterial infections (E. coli, Salmonella, Campylobacter)
• Excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption
• Side effects of medications

What is Watery Diarrhea a Sign Of?

Watery diarrhea can indicate:

• Viral or bacterial infections
• Malabsorption issues (e.g., celiac disease, pancreatic insufficiency)
• Medication side effects
• Excessive alcohol or caffeine intake

When to Worry About Diarrhea in Adults

Seek medical attention if diarrhea:

• Lasts more than three days
• Includes blood or mucus
• Causes severe dehydration (dark urine, dizziness, confusion)
• Is accompanied by high fever (above 102°F or 39°C)

Diarrhea Treatment Options

Hydration Therapy

• Drink plenty of water, herbal teas, and electrolyte solutions.
• Oral rehydration salts (ORS) help prevent dehydration.

Dietary Adjustments

• Eat bland foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (BRAT diet).
• Avoid dairy, fatty, or spicy foods.

Medications

• Loperamide (Imodium): Slows stool movement.
• Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol): Helps treat mild infections and inflammation.
• Antibiotics: Used if bacteria are the cause.