What Is Diarrhea?

Diarrhea is characterized by frequent, loose, or watery bowel movements. It can be acute, lasting a few days, or chronic, continuing for weeks. While acute diarrhea is typically caused by infections or dietary factors, chronic diarrhea may signal a more serious underlying health issue. If diarrhea persists, it’s important to seek professional care to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.

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What Causes Diarrhea?

Diarrhea can result from a variety of conditions or factors, including:

  • Infections: Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can lead to diarrhea, often from contaminated food, water, or poor hygiene.
  • Food Intolerances and Allergies: Sensitivities to certain foods, such as lactose intolerance or reactions to artificial sweeteners, can trigger diarrhea.
  • Medications: Some medications, particularly antibiotics, can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, leading to diarrhea.
  • Digestive Disorders: Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn's disease, and celiac disease are common causes.
  • Functional Bowel Disorders: These disorders occur when the bowel does not function properly, leading to symptoms like diarrhea.

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What Are The Symptoms?

While diarrhea itself is the main symptom, it is often accompanied by:

  • Abdominal cramps or pain
  • Bloating
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Urgency to have a bowel movement
  • Fever
  • Dehydration (e.g., dry skin, decreased urination, excessive thirst)
  • Severe dehydration can be dangerous, especially in children and the elderly, and requires prompt medical attention.

How Is Diarrhea Treated?

Diarrhea treatment in Chandler & Mesa at AZ Gastro Care aims to alleviate symptoms and address any underlying causes. Common treatment approaches include:

  • Rehydration: It's essential to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. Oral rehydration solutions or fluids are often used to prevent dehydration.
  • Dietary Adjustments: Avoiding certain foods, such as spicy or high-fat items, can help reduce irritation. A balanced, easily digestible diet may be recommended.
  • Medications: Over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications or prescribed treatments, depending on the underlying cause (e.g., infection, inflammation), can help manage symptoms.
  • Probiotics: These supplements can help restore a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which is often disrupted during episodes of diarrhea.

Why Choose AZ Gastro Care?

At AZ Gastro Care, we are committed to providing top-tier gastrointestinal care. Our gastroenterologists are highly skilled in diagnosing the causes of diarrhea and developing effective treatment plans tailored to each patient. We take a patient-centered approach, ensuring you receive compassionate care while addressing the root causes of your symptoms.

Our multi-specialty team is equipped to offer comprehensive care, ensuring you get the treatment you need for all your digestive health concerns. Whether you're dealing with acute or chronic diarrhea, we are here to help you manage and alleviate your symptoms, improving your overall health and well-being.

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Seeking Medical Care for Diarrhea? We Can Help.

Persistent diarrhea can affect your quality of life and may be a sign of a more serious gastrointestinal problem. The expert team at AZ Gastro Care is here to diagnose the cause of your diarrhea and provide a comprehensive treatment plan to restore your health. Schedule an appointment by phone or online today to start your journey toward symptom relief.

Diarrhea FAQ

What is diarrhea?

Diarrhea is the condition of having loose, watery stools, often occurring three or more times a day. Chronic diarrhea can lead to dehydration and nutrient deficiencies, so it’s essential to address the underlying cause.

What causes diarrhea?

Diarrhea can be triggered by:

  • Infections (bacterial, viral, parasitic)
  • Food intolerances (e.g., lactose intolerance)
  • Medications (e.g., antibiotics)
  • Digestive disorders (IBS, IBD, Crohn’s disease, etc.)
  • Functional bowel disorders
  • Stress or anxiety

How is diarrhea diagnosed?

To determine the cause of diarrhea, your gastroenterologist will review your medical history, conduct a physical exam, and may recommend stool tests, blood tests, imaging studies, or endoscopy to confirm the diagnosis and create an effective treatment plan.

What treatments are available for diarrhea?

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Your doctor may recommend:

  • Dietary changes: Staying hydrated and avoiding trigger foods.
  • Medications: Anti-diarrheal drugs, antibiotics, or anti-inflammatory medications as needed.
  • Probiotics: To help restore gut bacteria balance.
  • Treating underlying conditions: Managing chronic conditions like Crohn’s disease or IBS.

When should I see a doctor for diarrhea?

You should consult a gastroenterologist if:

  • Diarrhea lasts more than a few days
  • You notice blood in your stool
  • You experience severe dehydration (e.g., excessive thirst, dry mouth, low urine output)
  • You have persistent abdominal pain or cramping
  • You suspect an underlying health condition

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Take Control of Your Digestive Health

Don’t let chronic diarrhea interfere with your daily life. At AZ Gastro Care, we are here to provide expert diarrhea treatment in Chandler & Mesa, AZ, to get to the root cause of your symptoms and help restore your health. Schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward relief.

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