Chronic diarrhea (more than 3 loose stools daily)
Overview
Chronic diarrhea is a persistent digestive condition characterized by having more than three loose, watery bowel movements per day for an extended period. This ongoing symptom can lead to dehydration, nutrient loss, and significantly impact daily activities and quality of life.
Common Causes
Chronic diarrhea can result from various digestive conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, or food intolerances like lactose intolerance. Certain medications, particularly antibiotics, can disrupt the natural balance of gut bacteria leading to ongoing loose stools. Dietary factors including excessive caffeine, artificial sweeteners, or high-fat foods may trigger persistent digestive upset. Stress and anxiety can also significantly impact bowel function, as the gut and brain are closely connected through the nervous system.
Severity Levels
Mild: You may experience occasional loose stools with minimal disruption to your daily routine. Symptoms are manageable and don't significantly interfere with work, social activities, or sleep.
Moderate: Bowel movements become more frequent and urgent, causing noticeable interference with daily activities. You may need to plan around bathroom access and experience some fatigue or discomfort.
Severe: Frequent, urgent episodes severely limit your ability to leave home or maintain normal activities. You may experience significant weakness, dehydration, or weight loss requiring immediate medical attention.
Medical Attention
Seek medical attention if your symptoms persist for more than a few days, especially if accompanied by severe dehydration, blood in stools, high fever, or severe abdominal pain. Contact your healthcare provider promptly if you experience signs of dehydration such as dizziness, dry mouth, or decreased urination. If you have underlying health conditions or take medications that may be affected, consult your doctor sooner rather than later.
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