10 Common Causes of Diarrhea And How to Treat Them

Key takeaways:

• Diarrhea is often a common symptom of mild to moderate digestive issues, but it’s essential to know the underlying causes for effective treatment.
• Various factors, including infections, diet, and stress, can trigger diarrhea, each requiring different management approaches.
• If symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a healthcare provider is a vital step to avoid complications and receive targeted treatment.

Diarrhea can be an uncomfortable and disruptive experience, often arising without warning and making daily tasks difficult to manage. It’s characterized by frequent, loose stools and can stem from many causes, ranging from mild dietary changes to more significant infections.

Understanding what triggers diarrhea, as well as available treatment options, can make a big difference in managing symptoms effectively. This article delves into some common causes of diarrhea, practical treatment tips, and signs that it may be time to seek professional medical advice.

Common causes of diarrhea

Diarrhea can result from numerous sources, each with its own unique set of symptoms and treatment options. Here are some of the most common causes to consider:

1. Viral infections

Viral infections, such as norovirus and rotavirus, are frequent causes of diarrhea. These viruses typically spread through contaminated food or water, leading to digestive upset once inside the body. Symptoms of viral infections often include watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes fever.

Most viral infections resolve on their own within a few days, and hydration is key to preventing dehydration. However, if symptoms persist beyond a few days or worsen, a healthcare provider can offer additional guidance and recommend supportive treatments.

2. Bacterial infections

Bacterial infections, such as those from E. coli or Salmonella, are often caused by consuming contaminated foods. These infections can cause more intense symptoms, including severe abdominal cramping, bloody stools, and fever. Foodborne illnesses like these tend to cause noticeable digestive distress.

If diarrhea is accompanied by blood or severe abdominal pain, it’s essential to see a doctor. Bacterial infections often require antibiotics, and untreated infections can lead to dehydration or further complications.

3. Food intolerances

Food intolerances, such as lactose or gluten intolerance, can lead to diarrhea when the body struggles to digest specific ingredients. For instance, lactose intolerance occurs when the body lacks the enzyme needed to break down lactose, a sugar in milk and dairy products. Symptoms include bloating, gas, and loose stools after consuming trigger foods.

Identifying and avoiding trigger foods can often prevent symptoms. Keeping a food diary can help in identifying patterns, and consulting a doctor or dietitian for testing and dietary advice can be helpful in managing food intolerances.

4. Medications, including antibiotics

Certain medications, including antibiotics, are known to cause diarrhea by disrupting the balance of good bacteria in the digestive system. Antibiotics, while essential for treating bacterial infections, can sometimes lead to antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Other medications that may cause diarrhea include chemotherapy drugs, weight loss drugs, and certain antacids containing magnesium.

If diarrhea develops after starting a new medication, inform your healthcare provider. They may recommend a probiotic supplement to support gut health or adjust your dosage if possible.

5. Irritable bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic digestive condition that often includes diarrhea as a primary symptom. IBS affects the large intestine and can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and irregular bowel habits. People with IBS-D (IBS with diarrhea) frequently experience episodes of loose stools triggered by stress, certain foods, or hormonal changes.

Managing IBS often involves dietary adjustments, such as following a low-FODMAP diet and reducing stress. Medications may also help control symptoms, and consulting a gastroenterologist for a personalized treatment plan can make management easier.

6. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the digestive tract. People with IBD experience symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and blood in the stool due to inflammation in the intestines.

Routine care for IBD management typically requires medication to control inflammation and regular evaluation/monitoring by a healthcare provider. If you experience persistent diarrhea, blood in stools, or unexplained weight loss, seeking medical advice for possible diagnostic work-up and treatment is essential.

7. Stress and anxiety

Emotional stress and anxiety can trigger diarrhea, especially in individuals prone to digestive issues. The gut-brain connection plays a significant role in digestive health, and stress can influence bowel habits. For some, anxiety causes the digestive system to speed up, leading to diarrhea and other symptoms like bloating and discomfort.

Managing stress in everyday life—through things like deep breathing, exercise, or mindfulness—can make a difference in how the digestive system responds. For those who notice ongoing digestive issues linked to anxiety, speaking with a mental health professional may also provide helpful tools.

8. Hormonal changes

Hormonal fluctuations, such as those occurring during menstruation or pregnancy, can sometimes lead to changes in digestive function, including diarrhea. During menstruation, shifts in prostaglandins (hormone-like substances that trigger uterine contractions) can also stimulate the intestines, leading to loose stools. Pregnancy-related hormonal changes can also impact the digestive system, potentially causing diarrhea or constipation.

Hormone-related digestive changes are usually temporary, but staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet can help manage symptoms. If diarrhea becomes persistent or impacts daily life, consulting a healthcare provider can be beneficial to rule out other causes.

9. Parasitic infections

Parasitic infections, such as giardiasis, can result in persistent diarrhea, often accompanied by fatigue, bloating, and stomach cramps. Parasites, like Giardia, are typically contracted from contaminated water or food, especially in areas with inadequate sanitation.

If you suspect a parasitic infection, especially following travel or exposure to untreated water, see a healthcare provider. Treatment often includes specific medications to eliminate the parasite, and early intervention can prevent further complications and restore digestive health.

10. Sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners

Sugar alcohols, like sorbitol and xylitol, are often found in sugar-free candies, gums, and some low-calorie foods. These sweeteners can be challenging for the body to absorb, leading to digestive issues such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea, especially when consumed in large quantities.

Reducing intake of foods with sugar alcohols may alleviate symptoms. For those experiencing persistent digestive upset, keeping an eye on food labels and limiting artificial sweeteners can be helpful. If symptoms continue, consider consulting a healthcare provider for further guidance on dietary choices.

Read our guides on types of diarrhea and treating diarrhea for more.

When you should see a doctor about diarrhea

While many cases of diarrhea resolve on their own, there are certain situations where seeking medical advice is essential:

You should see a doctor if:

• Diarrhea persists beyond three days without any signs of improvement.
• There’s even a small amount of blood in the stool, or mild abdominal discomfort continues.
• Frequent diarrhea starts to interfere with your daily activities.

You should go to the emergency room if:

• Severe dehydration symptoms arise, such as dizziness, a rapid heart rate, or confusion.
• Fever reaches or exceeds 103°F (39.4°C) and doesn’t respond to home care.
• Stool contains a moderate amount of blood or appears black and tarry, as this may suggest a more serious issue.
• You experience sudden, intense abdominal pain that doesn’t subside with rest, indicating the need for immediate evaluation.

Questions to ask your doctor about diarrhea

If you decide to seek medical care, having a few questions prepared can help you gain a better understanding of your symptoms and treatment options:

• What could be causing my symptoms, and are there specific foods or activities I should avoid?
• Are there any tests I should take to confirm the cause of my diarrhea?
• What treatment options do you recommend, and are there any side effects?
• How can I prevent diarrhea from recurring in the future?

Frequently asked questions: diarrhea causes

If you’re experiencing diarrhea, it’s natural to have questions about what might be causing it and how best to manage it. Here are answers to some common questions that can help guide your understanding and recovery:

Can antibiotics cause diarrhea?

Yes, antibiotics can lead to diarrhea by disturbing the balance of bacteria in your gut. Antibiotic-associated diarrhea is fairly common and usually resolves once the medication course is finished. However, taking a probiotic may help restore balance and reduce symptoms.

Can stress or anxiety cause diarrhea?

Yes, stress or anxiety can cause diarrhea. The “gut-brain connection” means that stress and anxiety can have a direct impact on your digestive system. Many people experience stress-related digestive issues, and managing stress through relaxation techniques can often help ease symptoms.

What are common causes of diarrhea during pregnancy?

Hormonal changes, dietary shifts, and prenatal vitamins can all lead to diarrhea during pregnancy. If diarrhea is persistent or severe, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider to ensure both mother and baby remain healthy.

Managing chronic diarrhea

Diarrhea is usually a short-term issue that can often be managed at home, but knowing what’s causing it can make a big difference in treating and preventing it. Small changes in daily habits, like balanced eating, stress management, and watching for food triggers, can help keep symptoms at bay and support overall digestive health.

If symptoms don’t improve or if more serious signs like dehydration or blood in the stool appear, reaching out to a healthcare provider is wise. Getting checked early can prevent complications and keep your digestive health on track, so you can handle symptoms effectively and lower the chance of future episodes.

General Medicine follows a strict editorial process, including using real experts to write our articles, vetted primary sources, fact-checking, a secondary medical review, and updates as necessary. This article was medically reviewed and fact checked by Dr. Lane Thaut, DO.

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