Health and Wellness
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
IBS

 

 

 

 


Chronic Diarrhea and IBS

Having chronic diarrhea can be a cause of many things.

If you have consistent diarrhea problems and don’t find that it is associated with any other symptoms, it may be a result of IBS. By knowing why your digestive tract is responding this way, as well as knowing possible solutions to slow down the bowel movement, you will be able to ease the symptoms of diarrhea in relation to IBS.

Diarrhea is not considered part of IBS unless it is consistent for twelve or more weeks out of the year. Once this has been established, you should see a doctor for testing to make sure that it is a result of irritable bowel syndrome and not another problem. Often times, having consistent diarrhea may be related to malabsorption, Crohn’s disease or colitis. After being examined, your doctor will be able to determine if these are the problems instead of IBS.

Another reason for diarrhea that, in contrast, is not related to IBS is an infection of the parasite giardia lambia.

This is usually carried by beavers, making it a problem in mountainous areas. This parasite will break up the stools before they are completely digested, causing problems in relation to diarrhea. This is important to get examined right away if you are suddenly having problems with your digestion. Chronic diarrhea may also be a result from surgery, such as removal of your bladder.  These are important to consider before determining whether you have IBS or not.

Diarrhea, in relation to IBS, may be caused from particular trigger foods that are part of your diet. These then cause your stools to loosen. Things such as alcohol and caffeine are well known in causing this problem. Sugar substitutes are also largely attributed to diarrhea. If you are lactose intolerant, meaning that you can not have dairy, it may also cause your digestive tract to react with diarrhea. If this is one of your problems, you can try cutting out these substances completely and see if your condition improves.

You can also look at the inconsistencies of your stools. If you frequently have diarrhea, then it may be from IBS. If it is abnormal, and happens more than three times a day, it may also be related to this syndrome. Bloating and distension from the abdomen area are also directly related to those that have chronic diarrhea that is associated with bowel syndrome.

You may find that you will sometimes have diarrhea, while other times be constipated. This is a good sign that you have IBS. However, these are characteristic of other syndromes as well, and should be noted by a physician before deciding on treatment.

If you have chronic diarrhea, it may be associated with IBS. This may be the dominant problem that is occurring with your digestion, or it may be combined with constipation. Determining why you are having these digestive problems, as well as finding ways to stop the symptoms from occurring will help you to move back to a normal digestive tract and not allow the symptoms to get in the way.


All of the materials on this site have been included for the purpose of providing general information, and they should not be relied on as a substitution for professional advice.

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