Ailments and Situations - Diarrhea - Causes and What to Expect

Causes:

Diarrhea can exist alone, but is generally a symptom of other causes. Food poisoning and bacterial and viral infection are common causes of diarrhea. Incomplete digestion of food, consumption of contaminated water, and intestinal bacterial toxins are also common causes. Eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia, malabsorption syndrome, hyperthyroidism, food allergies, bile duct obstruction, heavy metal poisoning, celiac disease (severe wheat allergy), irritable bowel syndrome, and inflammatory bowel disease can all cause diarrhea. Diarrhea accompanied by fever and mucous or blood in the stool can be a sign of parasites. Stress, leading to what we often describe as a "nervous stomach", is also a common cause of diarrhea. Even small amounts of caffeine (one cup of coffee) can stimulate the bowel and can cause diarrhea. Unripe fruits, spoiled or rancid foods, and foods that you cannot tolerate can also lead to diarrhea.

Chemical, "indigestible" fat alternatives, when excreted, tend to carry useful nutrients into the bowel as well, causing excess frequency of stools and diarrhea. Many people who have consumed such products have experienced violent and intolerable cramping and diarrhea. Consuming too much vitamin C, especially vitamin C supplements, is another frequent cause of diarrhea. Our thresholds for vitamin C vary. As a result, most health practitioners advise that supplemental vitamin C be taken in divided doses, so that you can become aware of your limits.

 
What to Expect:

Most cases of diarrhea clear up without treatment. However, persistent diarrhea is not only uncomfortable, but can lead to serious health complications. Severe, bloody, diarrhea or diarrhea in a child under the age of six should be treated immediately.