Foods That Trigger Diarrhea: A Gastroenterology Perspective - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

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When it comes to gastrointestinal issues, particularly chronic diarrhea, understanding the triggers and underlying causes is crucial. Based on your description, it seems you have a complex interplay of dietary sensitivities, possible allergies, and pre-existing health conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms.

1. Understanding Your Reactions to Dairy Products: You mentioned that drinking iced or cold milk tea or coffee with milk leads to diarrhea, while consuming plain milk or tea does not cause the same reaction. This could indicate a lactose intolerance, particularly when it comes to certain dairy products mixed with other ingredients. Lactose intolerance occurs when the body lacks sufficient lactase, the enzyme needed to digest lactose, the sugar found in milk. When lactose is not properly digested, it can lead to symptoms like diarrhea, bloating, and gas. Additionally, the combination of milk with other ingredients, such as sugars or caffeine, may exacerbate your symptoms. It’s also possible that you might have a sensitivity to certain additives or sweeteners commonly found in flavored drinks.

2. Increasing Frequency of Symptoms: You noted that your diarrhea has become more frequent over time. This change is significant and warrants attention. Chronic diarrhea can lead to dehydration and nutritional deficiencies, which can further complicate your health. The fact that you have been experiencing this for a long time without seeking medical advice is concerning. It’s essential to understand that persistent gastrointestinal symptoms should not be ignored, as they can indicate underlying conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or even infections.

3. Existing Health Conditions: You mentioned having hepatitis B and experiencing urticaria (hives) due to seafood allergies. Hepatitis B can affect liver function, which in turn can impact digestion and absorption of nutrients. The liver plays a vital role in metabolizing various substances, and any dysfunction can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms. Additionally, your allergy to seafood could suggest a broader spectrum of food sensitivities or allergies, which may also contribute to your gastrointestinal distress.

Given these factors, it is highly advisable to consult a gastroenterologist. A specialist can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include blood tests, stool tests, and possibly imaging studies or endoscopy, to rule out any serious conditions. They can also help you identify specific food triggers through an elimination diet or allergy testing.

In the meantime, consider keeping a food diary to track what you eat and any subsequent symptoms. This can provide valuable information to your healthcare provider. Additionally, it may be beneficial to avoid known triggers, such as iced drinks or dairy products that cause you discomfort, until you can get a clearer understanding of your condition.

In summary, your symptoms warrant a comprehensive evaluation by a gastroenterologist, especially given the increasing frequency of your diarrhea and your existing health conditions. Understanding your dietary triggers and managing your symptoms effectively can significantly improve your quality of life.