I. Causes Of Acute Diarrhea:

Mostly infectious and usually go away on their own. Treatment involves staying hydrated with oral or intravenous fluids. In some cases, antibiotics and antiparasitic agents might be prescribed.

II. Causes Of Chronic Diarrhea:

These are often linked to diseases affecting the small and large intestines, as well as pancreatic insufficiency.

Small Intestine Culprits Include:

1. Celiac disease

2. Tropical sprue

3. Giardiasis and other parasitic infections

4. Whipple disease

5. Small bowel tuberculosis

6. Small bowel Crohn’s disease

7. Chronic variable immunodeficiency

8. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth

Large Intestine Offenders Include:

1. Ulcerative colitis

2. Crohn’s disease

3. Microscopic colitis

4. Colonic malignancies

5. Lymphoma

6. Radiation colitis

7. Ischemic colitis

Pancreatic Disorders:

Chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, and other causes leading to excessive secretion.

Diagnosis:

Involves stool and blood tests, endoscopy, colonoscopy, and biopsies. Treatment focuses on addressing the specific cause.

Constipation: When Things Slow Down

Constipation is when there’s a decrease in the frequency of bowel movements or a change from the normal pattern for an individual (less than one stool in 3 days).

Common Causes of Constipation:

1. Slowness of bowel movement

2. Hypothyroidism

3. Diabetes mellitus

4. Hypercalcemia

5. Hypokalemia

6. Side effects of certain medications

7. Obstructing lesions in the colon (like large polyps or malignancies)

8. Anal fissures

Evaluation:

Blood testing, colonoscopy, cross-sectional imaging, and anal manometry are part of the diagnostic process.

Treatment:

Tailored to address the specific cause of constipation.

Understanding your digestive system is crucial for maintaining overall health. If you experience persistent symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and personalized care. Remember, a healthy gut is a key to a healthier you!