The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC) states that adults suffering from diarrhea may have three or more loose, watery stools a day, averaging a quart or more of stool a day. When this condition is acute, it usually lasts for one or two days and passes without requiring medical treatment. However if it chronic, it lasts more than three days and may be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Knowing the causes may help you differentiate between the two.
Intolerance to Food
The physicians of Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterlogy, a practice specializing in diseases of the digestive system, state that certain foods may be the cause of diarrhea for some adults.
Lactose intolerance, or a milk allergy, can cause episodes of diarrhea in those who are unable to properly digest the milk sugar found in dairy products such as milk, cheese and ice cream. Even the smallest amounts can cause insufferable diarrhea.
Food intolerance doesn't end with milk allergies. For example, hot peppers contain an chemical by the name of capsaicin, which some cannot digest or tolerate well. The end result is diarrhea, although it may not occur until the following morning.
Intestinal Infections
A variety of viruses and infections invade the body, infecting the intestinal tract and resulting in diarrhea. In most cases, these infections go away by themselves without requiring medical treatment. Some of the most common viruses, according to the Mayo Clinic, include viral hepatitis and the herpes simplex virus. Any viral infection in the intestine is highly contagious and spreads easily.
Salmonella, a bacterial infection, is the result of eating contaminated food, according to Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology. Salmonella is only one example of many possible bacterial infections responsible for diarrhea, however it is serious and does require medical attention.
Parasites, such as amoebas and giardia, attack the intestines through various means. The main outlets of these parasites are contaminated water, such as well water and streams, and game animals, such as deer and rabbit.
Chemical Laxatives
Some people begin using laxatives as a means of making bowel movements easier. However it is possible for the body to become dependent on these products, and constant use can result in diarrhea.
The most common names for chemical stimulants or laxatives include magnesium, cascara and phenolphthalein. Magnesium can also be found in various over-the-counter products not meant to be used as laxatives, including Maalox and Mylanta. For this reason, it is important to read labels before purchasing any product.
Artificial Sweetners
The Mayo Clinic states that sweeteners, such as sorbitol and mannitol may also cause diarrhea. Sorbitol an artificial sweetener found in many products like gum, jellies and jams. It is also a laxative, which explains why diarrhea may be a problem after consuming these products.
