Chronic Diarrhea: Causes and Concerns for Young Adults

Q: Chronic Diarrhea: Causes and Concerns for Young Adults

Hello： It may be caused by irritable bowel syndrome or dietary and psychological stress. <br>If there is a family history of colorectal cancer, you should consult a gastroenterologist to evaluate whether an endoscopy is necessary. <br>Additionally, there are some endocrine issues

Chronic diarrhea

Doctor, I am 27 years old and for the past two to three years, I have been experiencing soft stools or diarrhea without abdominal pain or blood in my stool.
Sometimes the stool appears green.
In April of this year, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and was diagnosed with a Helicobacter pylori infection, for which I took medication for two weeks.
However, the symptoms have persisted, and I have also noticed weight loss.
What could be causing this?

ian, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/14

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: It may be caused by irritable bowel syndrome or dietary and psychological stress.
If there is a family history of colorectal cancer, you should consult a gastroenterologist to evaluate whether an endoscopy is necessary.
Additionally, there are some endocrine issues, such as hyperthyroidism.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2022/08/14

More Info

Chronic diarrhea can be a challenging condition, especially for young adults like yourself. Given your symptoms, including soft stools or diarrhea for the past two to three years, occasional green stools, and weight loss, it's essential to consider several potential causes and concerns.

Possible Causes of Chronic Diarrhea
1. Infections: You mentioned being treated for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, which is known to cause gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea. However, if your symptoms persist after treatment, it may indicate that the infection was not fully eradicated or that another infection is present. Other bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections could also be responsible for your symptoms.

2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): IBS is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by chronic diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between both. It often presents without any identifiable structural or biochemical abnormalities. Stress and dietary factors can exacerbate IBS symptoms.

3. Malabsorption Syndromes: Conditions such as celiac disease or lactose intolerance can lead to chronic diarrhea. In celiac disease, the ingestion of gluten triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine, leading to malabsorption of nutrients and diarrhea. Lactose intolerance occurs when the body lacks the enzyme lactase, leading to diarrhea after consuming dairy products.

4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can cause chronic diarrhea, weight loss, and other gastrointestinal symptoms. These are autoimmune conditions that cause inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.

5. Medications: Certain medications can cause diarrhea as a side effect. If you are taking any medications, it is worth reviewing them with your healthcare provider.

6. Dietary Factors: Sometimes, dietary choices can lead to chronic diarrhea. High intake of certain foods, such as those high in sugar or fat, can cause gastrointestinal upset. Additionally, artificial sweeteners like sorbitol can lead to diarrhea in some individuals.

Concerns and Next Steps
Given your symptoms and the duration of your condition, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Return to Your Doctor: Since your symptoms have persisted despite treatment for H. pylori, it is essential to revisit your healthcare provider. They may recommend further testing, such as stool tests, blood tests, or imaging studies, to identify the underlying cause of your chronic diarrhea.

2. Dietary Review: Keeping a food diary can help identify any potential dietary triggers. Note what you eat and drink, along with any symptoms that follow. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

3. Consider a Gastroenterologist: If your primary care physician is unable to determine the cause of your symptoms, a referral to a gastroenterologist may be necessary. They specialize in digestive disorders and can provide more targeted evaluations and treatments.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any additional symptoms you may experience, such as fever, abdominal pain, or changes in appetite. This information can help your healthcare provider make a more accurate diagnosis.

5. Hydration and Nutrition: Chronic diarrhea can lead to dehydration and nutrient deficiencies. Ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids and consider discussing dietary adjustments with a nutritionist.

Conclusion
Chronic diarrhea can significantly impact your quality of life, and understanding its causes is crucial for effective management. Given your history and ongoing symptoms, it is essential to seek further evaluation to identify the underlying issue. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help alleviate your symptoms and improve your overall health. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are healthcare professionals ready to assist you in finding relief.

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