Diarrhea

Everyone experiences diarrhea at some point. These semi-frequent loose and watery bowel movements occur as a result of viral infection or other gastrointestinal issues. Diarrhea is very common and is often not serious. It can typically be treated by consuming plenty of fluids and by taking over-the-counter medicine. If diarrhea persists for more than two days, however, it is considered prolonged and can be a sign of a more serious medical issue. Prolonged diarrhea also puts patients at risk for dehydration, which can negatively impact overall health. If you notice signs of prolonged diarrhea or have any questions pertaining to your symptoms, contact Dr. Berookim for a consultation.

What Cause Diarrhea?

Cause of Osmotic Diarrhea include:

• Lactose intolerance
• Digestive disorders like IBS, IBD, and celiac disease
• Certain medications
• Radiation therapy and chemotherapy

Causes of Infectious Diarrhea include:

• Bacterial infections like Salmonella or E. coli
• Viral infections like Norovirus
• Parasites from contaminated food or water – common while traveling outside the U.S.

Other Causes of Diarrhea:

• Alcohol abuse
• Laxative abuse
• Competitive running
• Diabetes
• Constipation

Diarrhea Symptoms

Symptoms of diarrhea range from mild to severe. If you experience symptoms for more than a day or two you should contact your doctor, as it may be the sign of a more pressing illness. The following are symptoms associated with diarrhea:

• Thin or loose stool
• Watery stool
• Abdominal bloating or cramps
• Frequent and uncontrollable bowel movements
• Nausea and vomiting
• Pain when producing stool
• Weight loss
• Fever
• Blood or mucus in your stool

Treatment For Diarrhea

Because diarrhea is common and often not serious, it can usually be treated at home. As dehydration is a major cause for concern when one has diarrhea, be sure to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Drinking at least 6 glasses of water a day is beneficial when one has diarrhea. To help with discomfort, take over the counter medications such as Pepto-Bismol or Imodium A-D, available in tablets or liquids.

The food you put into your body can cause increased discomfort. Avoid foods containing lactose, foods high in fiber, alcohol, caffeine, and greasy or spicy foods. When your symptoms lessen, stick with bland, white foods like bananas, rice, crackers, and skinless chicken until you feel fully back to normal.

If your symptoms do not improve, contact your doctor.

Digestive Disorders and Chronic Diarrhea

When diarrhea persists for more than 3 months, the condition is considered chronic and is probably a result of a digestive disorder. Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, and Malabsorption are all digestive disorders that have diarrhea as a symptom.

With IBS, the nerves and muscles in the intestines are sensitive and cause the following symptoms:

• cramping
• abdominal pain
• diarrhea
• mucus in the stool
• constipation

IBD is unlike IBS because it is associated with fever and can cause more serious problems. Crohn’s disease, Ulcerative colitis, and microscopic colitis are all types of IBD with diarrhea as a common symptom.

Malabsorption causes diarrhea when your body cannot properly break down certain foods. Diarrhea occurs with lactose intolerance, celiac disease, and chronic pancreatitis.

If your diarrhea persists, see a GI specialist like Dr. Berookim who will be able to diagnose and treat your diarrhea and other symptoms.

Consult the Gastroenterology Institute of Southern California

Diarrhea is common disorder that can lead to greater issues if its symptoms do not resolve on their own. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids and contact Dr. Berookim, your expert Los Angeles gastroenterologist, with your concerns and questions about chronic diarrhea. Call us at (310) 271-1122 to schedule a consultation with your GI specialist.