Watery Diarrhea: Causes and Dietary Tips for Relief

Diarrhea with watery stools?

Hello Doctor, in July 2022, I underwent a colonoscopy and gastroscopy, which showed no issues, only that I have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
The week before last, I experienced constipation, and my stool was too hard, which caused an injury to my anus and some bleeding.
Later, I bought yogurt and started drinking it every other day last week, along with approximately 1800cc of water daily.
Although my stool was a bit hard at first, it became normal after that.
Four days ago, I started having diarrhea, but it was only once.
The next day, I noticed something strange; during bowel movements, I only passed clear water and some residue (similar to the stool after taking laxatives the day before a colonoscopy).
The following day, I did not have a bowel movement, and today it is the same, with more water being expelled, but still only once a day, and the frequency has not increased.
Is this related to my IBS or could it be another condition? Are there any dietary improvements I should make? Yesterday, I ate zongzi, one for lunch and one for dinner, accompanied by bamboo shoot soup.
Today, I had half a bread for breakfast, a small bowl of rice noodles for lunch, and for dinner, a cup of yogurt and eight pan-fried dumplings.
Do I need to undergo another colonoscopy and gastroscopy? Thank you, Doctor.

A, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/21

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Just adjust your diet (regular timing and portion control, low oil and low dairy) in conjunction with medication.

Reply Date: 2023/06/21

More Info

Understanding watery diarrhea can be quite complex, especially when considering the interplay of dietary habits, underlying gastrointestinal conditions, and individual health history. Based on your description, it seems you have a history of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and have recently experienced a shift in your bowel habits, including episodes of diarrhea and changes in stool consistency.
Watery diarrhea can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections (viral, bacterial, or parasitic), food intolerances, medications, and underlying gastrointestinal disorders such as IBS. In your case, the fact that you have a history of IBS suggests that your symptoms may be related to this condition, which is characterized by a sensitive gut that can react to stress, certain foods, and other triggers.

Your recent experience of having hard stools followed by diarrhea could indicate a few things. First, the hard stools may have led to anal fissures, which can cause bleeding and discomfort. The subsequent watery stools could be your body’s response to the irritation or inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. It’s also possible that the introduction of new foods, such as the粽子 (sticky rice dumplings) and bamboo shoot soup, could have triggered a reaction, especially if these foods are not typically part of your diet.

In terms of dietary recommendations, it’s essential to focus on a balanced diet that is gentle on your digestive system. Here are some tips:
1. Hydration: Continue to drink plenty of fluids, especially water and electrolyte solutions, to prevent dehydration, particularly if you are experiencing diarrhea.

2. Bland Diet: Stick to a bland diet that includes easily digestible foods. The BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) is often recommended during episodes of diarrhea. These foods can help firm up stools.

3. Avoid Irritants: Stay away from spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and high-fat foods, as these can exacerbate symptoms of IBS and lead to further gastrointestinal distress.

4. Probiotics: Incorporating probiotics, such as yogurt or fermented foods, can help restore the balance of gut bacteria, which may be beneficial after episodes of diarrhea.

5. Fiber Intake: Gradually increase your fiber intake with soluble fiber sources like oats, bananas, and cooked vegetables, which can help regulate bowel movements.

6. Monitor Food Intolerances: Pay attention to how your body reacts to certain foods. Keeping a food diary can help identify any triggers that may worsen your symptoms.

Regarding your question about whether you need to undergo another colonoscopy or endoscopy, this decision should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider. If your symptoms persist, worsen, or if you experience significant changes in your bowel habits, weight loss, or other concerning symptoms, further evaluation may be warranted.
In summary, while your symptoms may be related to IBS, it’s crucial to monitor your condition closely and make dietary adjustments as needed. If you have any doubts or if your symptoms do not improve, seeking medical advice is always a prudent choice. Your health is paramount, and addressing these gastrointestinal issues early can help prevent more significant complications down the line.

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