“Why do I have diarrhea 2 to 3 times a week?”
I have diarrhea 2-3 times a week. I have a good appetite, I have gas. No meds.
Male | 73 years old
Conditions: Diarrhea
4 Answers
GastroenterologistGastroenterologist
EPI Vs. Coffee ingestion
Experiencing diarrhea 2 to 3 times a week could have various causes, and it's important to consult with a physician to determine the underlying reason for your symptoms. While I can't provide a diagnosis without a formal consultation, I can outline some common factors that may contribute to frequent diarrhea:
1. Dietary factors: Certain foods or beverages can cause diarrhea, especially if you have sensitivities or intolerances. Common culprits include lactose (found in dairy products), gluten (found in wheat and other grains), spicy or greasy foods, and artificial sweeteners.
2. Gastrointestinal infections: Infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites can lead to episodes of diarrhea. These infections are often accompanied by other symptoms like abdominal pain, fever, nausea, or vomiting.
3. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): IBS is a chronic condition characterized by changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea. It can be triggered by various factors such as stress, certain foods, or hormonal changes.
4. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are forms of IBD that can cause chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, leading to diarrhea, abdominal pain, and other symptoms.
5. Medications or supplements: Some medications, such as antibiotics or certain over-the-counter supplements, can disrupt the normal balance of gut bacteria and cause diarrhea as a side effect.
6. Anxiety or stress: Emotional stress or anxiety can affect bowel function and lead to diarrhea in some individuals.
7. Other underlying conditions: Certain medical conditions like celiac disease, food allergies, thyroid disorders, or malabsorption issues can also contribute to chronic diarrhea.
It's essential to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your medical history, conduct a physical examination, and potentially order additional tests to determine the underlying cause. They will be able to provide you with a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment or further investigations as needed.
1. Dietary factors: Certain foods or beverages can cause diarrhea, especially if you have sensitivities or intolerances. Common culprits include lactose (found in dairy products), gluten (found in wheat and other grains), spicy or greasy foods, and artificial sweeteners.
2. Gastrointestinal infections: Infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites can lead to episodes of diarrhea. These infections are often accompanied by other symptoms like abdominal pain, fever, nausea, or vomiting.
3. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): IBS is a chronic condition characterized by changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea. It can be triggered by various factors such as stress, certain foods, or hormonal changes.
4. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are forms of IBD that can cause chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, leading to diarrhea, abdominal pain, and other symptoms.
5. Medications or supplements: Some medications, such as antibiotics or certain over-the-counter supplements, can disrupt the normal balance of gut bacteria and cause diarrhea as a side effect.
6. Anxiety or stress: Emotional stress or anxiety can affect bowel function and lead to diarrhea in some individuals.
7. Other underlying conditions: Certain medical conditions like celiac disease, food allergies, thyroid disorders, or malabsorption issues can also contribute to chronic diarrhea.
It's essential to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your medical history, conduct a physical examination, and potentially order additional tests to determine the underlying cause. They will be able to provide you with a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment or further investigations as needed.
It could be many things, irritable bowel being high on the list. Diarrhea requires a diligent and dedicated work up.
You have to be evaluated. How long have you had diarrhea? Do you bleed? How many movements do you have a day and what do you mean by diarrhea? Do you drink milk? Do you awaken at night to have a stool? Have you been on antibiotics in the last 6 months? Good luck!
