In most cases, abdominal pain and diarrhea are short-lived, a result of improper digestion. When abdominal pain and diarrhea are persistent and long-lasting, they can interfere with daily life. Chronic abdominal pain and diarrhea usually indicate the presence of an inflammatory bowel disease or a digestive disorder.
Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease characterized by inflammation of the digestive tract. Although Crohn's can affect any area in the digestive tract, it most commonly affects the ileum, which is the lower part of the small intestine, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. The exact cause of Crohn's disease is unknown, but the most widely accepted theory is that it develops as a result of an abnormal immune response to bacteria in the digestive tract. The most common symptoms of Crohn's are abdominal pain and diarrhea, although rectal bleeding, weight loss, skin problems, arthritis and fever may also occur. Treatment for Crohn's usually consists of a combination of medications, nutritional supplementation and lifestyle changes. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove an irreversibly damaged part of the intestines.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome is a disorder of the lower intestinal tract, characterized by its symptoms of abdominal pain and alternating bouts of diarrhea and constipation. Irritable bowel syndrome is believed to be a result of abnormal intestinal contractions, according to MedlinePlus. Contractions may be too frequent and strong, resulting in diarrhea, or too intermittent and weak, resulting in constipation. Treatment for irritable bowel syndrome focuses on relieving individual symptoms. Possible treatments may include anti-diarrheal medications, medications to stimulate bowel movements and anti-depressants to slow bowel movements. Lifestyle modifications, such as dietary changes and regular exercise, may help.
Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is another inflammatory bowel disease that results in chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. Although it's possible for any area of the digestive tract to be inflamed, ulcerative colitis usually only affects the inner lining of the colon and the rectum, according to MayoClinic.com. The exact cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown, but it's believed to develop as a result of genetics and abnormal immune response. Symptoms of ulcerative colitis include rectal bleeding, rectal pain, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, unintentional weight loss and fatigue. Treatment for ulcerative colitis consists of a combination of drug therapies that include anti-inflammatory medications, immunosuppressants, anti-diarrheal medications and pain relievers. Surgery is also used in extremely severe cases; it involves removal of part of the colon and the rectum.
