CONDITIONS
What is chronic diarrhoea?
What is chronic diarrhoea?
Chronic diarrhoea is defined as frequent, watery stools persisting for four weeks or longer. It often begins abruptly and may be accompanied by abdominal spasms or cramping during bowel movements.
Chronic diarrhoea may result from ongoing bowel disorders. While these conditions typically cannot be permanently cured, various interventions can help relieve symptoms and improve comfort.
What are the common signs of chronic diarrhoea?
Numerous underlying conditions can lead to chronic diarrhoea, making accurate diagnosis essential for effective treatment.
- Inflammation and irritation of the bowel
- Loss of bowel control
- Urgent bowel movements
- Stomach pain
What are some of the causes of chronic diarrhoea?
Common causes of chronic diarrhoea include the following:
- Regular consumption of artificial sweeteners and fructose can contribute to chronic diarrhoea.
- Complications arising from previous abdominal surgery.
- Dietary changes
- Excessive intake of caffeine or alcohol.
- Lactose intolerance
- Medication side effects
- Celiac disease
- Colon cancer
Routine medical evaluations and screenings are recommended, especially for individuals experiencing chronic diarrhoea. Diagnostic assessments enable healthcare providers to identify the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
How do you resolve chronic diarrhoea?
Treatment for chronic diarrhoea is based on the underlying cause, which is identified through various diagnostic tests, including the following:
- An abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan uses X-rays and specialized software to generate two- and three-dimensional images of the intestines.
- Colonoscopy is a procedure in which a flexible scope equipped with a light and camera is inserted through the rectum to examine the entire colon.
- Upper endoscopy involves inserting a flexible endoscope through the mouth and esophagus to inspect the lining of the stomach and small intestine for infection, inflammation, ulcers, or cancer. Once we determine the cause of chronic diarrhoea, we will develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs and preferences.
To find out more about treatment, kindly contact the practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
All disease
begins in the gut.
