Diarrhea, or loose, watery stools, may occur suddenly or as part of a chronic digestive disorder. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC), diarrhea is usually common and dissipates within two days, without need for medical care. Severe diarrhea may cause dehydration--a potentially serious complication in children and elderly individuals. Digestive diseases that involve diarrhea may be caused by genetic factors. Since digestive symptoms can indicate serious health conditions, medical guidance is key.
Harmful Bacteria
Your body requires helpful bacteria for proper wellness. When harmful bacteria enter your body, however, they can cause bacterial infections and diseases. According to the NDDIC, infections caused by harmful bacteria, such as campylobacter, salmonella, shigella, and escherichia coli (E. coli), commonly cause diarrhea. A person may develop diarrhea in response to eating food or drinking water contaminated by harmful bacteria. Additional symptoms of bacterial infections may include body aches, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, reduced appetite, lethargy and indigestion. Bacterial infections may require medical treatment.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a digestive disorder that causes diarrhea, pain, bloating, gas and/or recurrent bouts of constipation. Although the specific cause of IBS remains unknown, abnormally strong stomach contractions may cause rapid food passage, diarrhea and related symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic. Stomach contractions in people with IBS may also be unusually strong and long-lasting. Although food does not cause IBS, particular foods and beverages, such as milk, chocolate and alcohol, may trigger diarrhea symptoms. Emotional stress and hormonal changes associated with PMS may also contribute.
Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as Crohn's disease and colitis, cause painful inflammation in the digestive tract. According to the NDDIC, diarrhea is a common symptom of both disorders. Additional symptoms may include iron deficiency (anemia), fatigue, reduced appetite, unintentional weight loss, rectal bleeding, joint pain and developmental delays in children. Although the specific causes of Crohn's disease and colitis remain unknown, an irregular immune system response is likely involved. Genetics may also contribute, as both conditions tend to run in families. The goal of treatment for IBDs is to prevent and reduce diarrhea and other symptoms. In severe cases, chronic diarrhea causes people with IBDs to develop dehydration, nutrient deficiencies, malnutrition and increased risk for osteoporosis.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Diarrhea Information
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Ulcerative Colitis Facts and Treatment
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Crohn's Disease Facts and Treatment
- Mayo Clinic: Irritable Bowel Syndrome Causes
