Chronic Diarrhea
Chronic diarrhea can be caused by a wide range of conditions; among the most common are inflammatory bowel disease (Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), malabsorption symptoms associated with poor digestion and absorption of food, and chronic infections. Chronic diarrhea may also be caused by many other less common conditions.
Irritable bowel syndrome — One of the more common causes of chronic diarrhea is irritable bowel syndrome. IBS can cause painful abdominal cramps and irregular bowel movements (diarrhea or constipation). Infections can cause IBS.
Inflammatory bowel disease — Inflammatory bowel disease includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, two of the most common forms. An immune system attack on digestive organs can lead to these conditions. Blood in the stool is a clue of inflammatory bowel disease.
Infections — Chronic diarrhea is caused by intestinal infections. Travelers or people living in tropical or resource-limited countries are susceptible to infections that cause chronic diarrhea. Contaminated food or water, and unpasteurized (“raw”) milk can also cause intestinal infections.
Endocrine disorders — Chronic diarrhea and weight loss can be caused by hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). The nerves supplying the digestive tract can be damaged by diabetes, which can lead to chronic diarrhea.
Food allergy or sensitivity — Hypersensitivity and food allergies can lead to chronic diarrhea. Wheat flour contains gluten, which can cause diarrhea and weight loss in celiac disease sufferers. Milk causes diarrhea and gas for patients with lactose intolerance.
Medicines — As a side effect of many medications (prescription and non-prescription), dietary and herbal supplements diarrhea may occur. Check with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist whether any of your medicines may be causing diarrhea. Most prescriptions come with paperwork or a medicine bottle that contains this information.