Overview

Chronic diarrhea is having loose or watery stools for 4 weeks or more. Acute diarrhea is usually caused by short-term infections, but chronic diarrhea is often a sign of a deeper digestive or systemic problem. If you keep losing fluids, it can make it harder for your body to absorb nutrients and cause dehydration, weight loss, and weakness. Conditions that cause inflammation, digestive problems, infections, or malabsorption can all lead to chronic diarrhoea. It can affect people of all ages and significantly impact their daily lives and quality of life. Early evaluation is essential to determine the aetiology and prevent long-term complications.

Symptoms
Some common symptoms are having to go to the bathroom often, having stomach cramps, feeling like you have to go to the bathroom, and feeling bloated. People may feel tired and dehydrated, and may lose weight. Sometimes, stool may contain blood or mucus. Diarrhea that lasts a long time can also cause an electrolyte imbalance, which can make you feel weak, dizzy, or have muscle cramps.

Causes
Inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic infections, and malabsorption disorders like lactose intolerance or celiac disease can all cause chronic diarrhea. Other reasons are taking medicine for a long time, having hormonal problems, not having enough pancreatic function, and being sensitive to certain foods.

Diagnosis
Doctors review a person's medical history, perform a physical exam, and order lab tests to determine whether they have an infection, inflammation, or poor nutrition. Blood tests check electrolyte levels and detect underlying conditions. To examine the lining of the intestines, a doctor may recommend an endoscopy or colonoscopy.

Treatment
The goal of treatment is to identify and address the underlying cause and prevent dehydration. It is important to rehydrate and replace electrolytes. Changes to your diet, such as avoiding foods that make you sick, might help. Depending on the diagnosis, medications can help with inflammation, infection, or bowel movement. For long-term improvement, it is important to receive nutritional support and treat any other health problems that may accompany it.
The prognosis depends on the underlying cause. Treating the main problem often improves things. Early diagnosis and good care help prevent dehydration, nutrient deficiencies, and other problems, allowing their digestive system to function normally again.