Chronic diarrhea is defined as diarrhea that lasts for more than two weeks, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Causes include parasites, infections, medications such as antibiotics, hereditary disorders, tumors and reduced blood flow to the intestine. Treatment of chronic diarrhea depends on its cause, and the condition needs to be reported to a physician for diagnosis.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, has symptoms such as bloating, abdominal cramping, diarrhea and constipation. As many as 20 percent of Americans have symptoms of IBS, and it occurs in women more frequently. Some people with IBS have frequent, loose and watery stools. Although the cause of IBS is not known, it is believed that it may result from a large intestine that is sensitive to stress or certain foods, according to National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. No cure exists for IBS, but symptoms can be treated with changes to the diet, stress management and medications, explains the NIDDK.
Giardia Infection
Giardia is one of the most common infections transmitted by water in the U.S., explains MayoClinic.com. Lakes, streams, swimming pools, hot tubs and city water supplies can be contaminated with the parasite. It is also transmitted through contact with an infected person or through food. Symptoms include burping, nausea, weight loss, abdominal cramping, and diarrhea that can be foul-smelling and that can alternate with soft and greasy stools. According to MayoClinic.com, Giardia is especially dangerous in children under 5 due to risks of serious dehydration and malnutrition.
Chronic Pancreatitis
Chronic pancreatitis is an ongoing inflammation of the pancreas that causes permanent damage, according to the National Institutes of Health website, MedlinePlus. The pancreas produces insulin and enzymes that are necessary to digest food. Causes of chronic pancreatitis include alcohol abuse, blockage of the ducts that drain digestive enzymes, cystic fibrosis, elevated triglycerides and certain medications. Symptoms include chronic diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, weight loss, and abdominal pain that is most intense in the upper abdomen and that may worsen after eating or drinking alcohol. Chronic pancreatitis is a serious disease that requires medical treatment.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is caused by the lack of the enzyme lactase that is needed to digest lactose, which is the sugar in dairy products. This can cause distressing symptoms after ingestion of dairy products, including gas, diarrhea, nausea, cramps and bloating, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Up to 75 percent of African Americans and Native Americans and up to 90 percent of Asian Americans are lactose intolerant. Lactase enzyme supplements can treat lactose intolerance, notes UMMC. A physician should be consulted for a diagnosis.
