Chronic Diarrhea Treatment in Lake Success, NY

Chronic diarrhea is defined as loose or watery stools that occur for more than four weeks. Unlike acute diarrhea, which is typically caused by infections or food-related issues, chronic diarrhea is often a sign of an underlying digestive condition. It can significantly impact daily life, leading to dehydration, weight loss, and malnutrition if left untreated.

Several conditions can lead to chronic diarrhea, including:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A common functional gastrointestinal disorder, IBS can cause alternating diarrhea and constipation, accompanied by abdominal pain, bloating, and discomfort.

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): This includes conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which cause chronic inflammation in the digestive tract. Diarrhea in IBD is often accompanied by blood in the stool, weight loss, and fatigue.

• Infections: Chronic infections from bacteria (like Clostridium difficile), parasites, or viruses can lead to ongoing diarrhea. In some cases, these infections persist even after the initial acute phase has passed.

• Malabsorption Disorders: Conditions like celiac disease or lactose intolerance can cause malabsorption of nutrients, leading to chronic diarrhea.

• Medications: Certain medications, such as antibiotics, can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, leading to chronic diarrhea.

• Endocrine Disorders: Diseases like hyperthyroidism or diabetes can also contribute to chronic diarrhea by affecting gut motility.

Dr. Preeti Mehta and her board-certified gastroenterologists at Digestive Disease Care offer comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment to manage chronic diarrhea and its underlying causes.

Chronic diarrhea is characterized by loose, watery stools lasting for more than four weeks. It can lead to several symptoms that vary in severity, impacting daily life and overall health.

Common symptoms of chronic diarrhea include:

• Frequent, Loose Stools: The most defining symptom of chronic diarrhea is the frequent passage of loose or watery stools. This can occur several times a day, often without warning.

• Abdominal Discomfort: Many individuals with chronic diarrhea experience abdominal cramps or discomfort, which may be relieved after bowel movements.

• Urgency: A sudden and strong urge to have a bowel movement, sometimes with little warning, is common. This can lead to accidents if immediate access to a restroom is not available.

• Bloating: A feeling of fullness or bloating in the abdomen is frequently reported, often associated with gas or indigestion.

• Fatigue: Chronic diarrhea can lead to dehydration and nutrient malabsorption, which may cause fatigue, weakness, and a lack of energy.

• Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss may occur, especially if the diarrhea is caused by malabsorption issues, like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

If you experience these symptoms, Dr. Preeti Mehta and her board-certified team of gastroenterologists at Digestive Disease Care can help diagnose the cause and develop a personalized treatment plan to manage chronic diarrhea.

Yes, chronic diarrhea is often a sign of an underlying health condition. When diarrhea persists for more than four weeks, it may indicate that something is disrupting the normal functioning of the digestive system. Several conditions can contribute to chronic diarrhea, ranging from gastrointestinal disorders to infections and even systemic diseases.

1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): One of the most common causes of chronic diarrhea, IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that causes frequent diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating. IBS can be triggered by stress, diet, or other factors, but it’s not related to any underlying damage to the digestive tract.

2. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, both types of IBD, involve chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. These conditions can lead to persistent diarrhea, often accompanied by blood, weight loss, and fatigue.

3. Infections: Chronic infections caused by bacteria (such as Clostridium difficile), viruses, or parasites can also lead to long-term diarrhea, especially if left untreated or improperly managed.

4. Malabsorption Disorders: Conditions like celiac disease, lactose intolerance, or pancreatic insufficiency can cause malabsorption of nutrients, leading to diarrhea as the body is unable to properly process food.

5. Endocrine Disorders: Hormonal imbalances, such as those seen in hyperthyroidism or diabetes, can also cause chronic diarrhea by affecting gut motility.

If you’re experiencing persistent diarrhea, it’s crucial to consult with a gastroenterologist. Dr. Preeti Mehta and her board-certified team at Digestive Disease Care can help identify the underlying cause and provide effective treatment options.

Dietary changes can play a significant role in managing chronic diarrhea by reducing symptoms and improving digestive health. While the effectiveness of dietary modifications depends on the underlying cause of the condition, certain foods and habits can help alleviate discomfort.

• Low-FODMAP Diet: For individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a low-FODMAP diet can be beneficial. FODMAPs are a group of carbohydrates that can be difficult to digest, leading to bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Reducing high-FODMAP foods, like certain fruits, vegetables, and dairy, can help improve symptoms.

• Avoiding Fatty and Greasy Foods: High-fat foods can irritate the digestive system and worsen diarrhea. Opting for lean proteins and low-fat options can help reduce the strain on your intestines.

• Increased Fiber Intake: For some individuals, increasing soluble fiber, found in foods like oats, bananas, and apples, can help absorb excess water in the intestines and reduce diarrhea. However, insoluble fiber should be limited as it may exacerbate symptoms in some people.

• Hydration: Chronic diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so it’s important to drink plenty of fluids. Water, clear broths, and electrolyte-rich drinks like sports drinks or oral rehydration solutions are essential to replace lost fluids.

Dr. Preeti Mehta, MD, and our board-certified team of gastroenterologists at Digestive Disease Care offer comprehensive solutions for managing chronic diarrhea. With a focus on personalized care, Dr. Mehta carefully evaluates the underlying causes of persistent diarrhea, whether related to conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), infections, or malabsorption disorders. Using advanced diagnostic tools, Dr. Mehta and her team develop individualized treatment plans that may include dietary modifications, medications, and lifestyle changes to effectively manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Their holistic approach ensures that each patient receives the most appropriate and effective care, helping to alleviate discomfort and restore digestive health. Whether you are dealing with ongoing digestive issues or need specialized care, Dr. Mehta and her team are committed to providing expert guidance and support tailored to your needs.

For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 1991 Marcus Ave, Suite M200, Lake Success, NY 11042. We serve patients from Lake Success, NY, Queens, NY, Hempstead NY, Roslyn NY, Jericho NY, Westbury NY, and surrounding areas.