Biegunka
Etiologia i przyczyny
Biegunka definiowana jest jako oddawanie co najmniej trzech luźnych lub wodnistych stolców na dobę, z podziałem na ostrą (<2 tyg.), przetrwałą (2-4 tyg.) i przewlekłą (>4 tyg.). Najczęstszą przyczyną ostrej biegunki są infekcje wirusowe (75-90%), głównie norowirusy u dorosłych i rotawirusy u dzieci. Bakterie, takie jak E. coli (szczepy Shiga toksynotwórcze), Campylobacter jejuni, Salmonella spp., Shigella spp. oraz Clostridioides difficile, stanowią drugą co do częstości grupę patogenów. Pasożyty (Giardia lamblia, Cryptosporidium parvum, Entamoeba histolytica) są rzadsze, ale istotne u podróżnych. Poza infekcjami, biegunka może wynikać z nietolerancji pokarmowych (laktoza, fruktoza, sztuczne słodziki), chorób zapalnych jelit (choroba Leśniowskiego-Crohna, wrzodziejące zapalenie jelita grubego, mikroskopowe zapalenie jelita grubego), zespołu jelita drażliwego, SIBO, zaburzeń endokrynologicznych, działań niepożądanych leków (antybiotyki, chemioterapia, inhibitory pompy protonowej, metformina) oraz innych stanów, takich jak nowotwory czy radioterapia.
- Biegunka (Diarrhea) – Etiologia, przyczyny i czynniki wywołujące
- Przyczyny infekcyjne biegunki
- Nieinfecyjne przyczyny biegunki
- Biegunka podróżnicza (traveler’s diarrhea)
- Specyficzne przyczyny biegunki u dzieci
- Patofizjologia biegunki
- Biegunka osmotyczna
- Biegunka wydzielnicza
- Biegunka zapalna
- Zaburzenia motoryki jelitowej
- Biegunka tłuszczowa (zespoły złego wchłaniania)
- Klasyfikacja biegunki według czasu trwania
- Czynniki ryzyka wystąpienia biegunki
- Konsekwencje i powikłania biegunki
Biegunka (Diarrhea) – Etiologia, przyczyny i czynniki wywołujące
Biegunka (diarrhea) definiowana jest jako oddawanie co najmniej trzech luźnych lub wodnistych stolców w ciągu doby lub częstsze oddawanie stolca niż jest to normalnie dla danej osoby12. Przyczyny występowania biegunki są liczne i zróżnicowane, a ich zrozumienie jest kluczowe dla odpowiedniego postępowania terapeutycznego. W zależności od czasu trwania biegunkę można podzielić na ostrą (trwającą krócej niż 2 tygodnie), przetrwałą (trwającą 2-4 tygodnie) oraz przewlekłą (trwającą powyżej 4 tygodni)34.
Przyczyny infekcyjne biegunki
Infekcje stanowią najczęstszą przyczynę ostrej biegunki i mogą być wywołane przez różne patogeny35. Poniżej omówiono główne czynniki infekcyjne:
Zakażenia wirusowe
Wirusy są najczęstszą przyczyną ostrej biegunki, odpowiadając za 75-90% przypadków67. Do najważniejszych wirusów wywołujących biegunkę należą:
- Norowirus – najczęstsza przyczyna ostrej biegunki u dorosłych, często określany jako „biegunka rejsowa” ze względu na charakterystyczne epidemie na statkach wycieczkowych58
- Rotawirus – najczęstsza przyczyna ostrej biegunki u dzieci (odpowiada za około 40% hospitalizacji z powodu biegunki u małych dzieci)59
- Inne wirusy: adenowirusy jelitowe, astrowirusy, wirus cytomegalii oraz wirusy wywołujące zapalenie wątroby810
Zakażenia bakteryjne
Bakterie są drugą co do częstości przyczyną biegunek infekcyjnych. Częściej związane są z podróżami, chorobami współistniejącymi i zatruciem pokarmowym6. Najważniejsze patogeny bakteryjne obejmują:
- Escherichia coli (E. coli) – szczególnie szczepy produkujące toksynę Shiga (E. coli O157:H7), będące najczęstszą przyczyną krwawej biegunki infekcyjnej w Stanach Zjednoczonych11
- Campylobacter jejuni – jedna z najczęstszych bakteryjnych przyczyn biegunki12
- Salmonella spp. – powszechna przyczyna zatruć pokarmowych13
- Shigella spp. – wywołująca biegunkę o ostrym przebiegu6
- Clostridioides difficile (dawniej Clostridium difficile) – szczególnie istotna u osób w podeszłym wieku po antybiotykoterapii11
- Vibrio parahaemolyticus i Vibrio cholerae – związane z spożyciem skażonych owoców morza i wody10
- Yersinia enterocolitica i Aeromonas hydrophila1410
Zakażenia pasożytnicze
Pasożyty są rzadszą przyczyną biegunek w krajach rozwiniętych, ale częściej występują u podróżujących do regionów o ograniczonym dostępie do czystej wody15. Główne pasożyty wywołujące biegunkę to:
- Giardia lamblia – najczęstszy pasożyt wywołujący biegunkę u dzieci16
- Cryptosporidium parvum – odporne na chlorowanie, częsta przyczyna epidemii w przedszkolach i miejscach publicznych17
- Entamoeba histolytica – wywołująca amebozę, mogącą powodować objawy od łagodnej biegunki do czerwonki18
- Cyclospora – szczególnie częsta w Gwatemali, Haiti, Nepalu i Peru7
Nieinfecyjne przyczyny biegunki
Oprócz czynników infekcyjnych, wiele innych stanów może wywoływać biegunkę, zarówno ostrą jak i przewlekłą519:
Nietolerancje pokarmowe i alergie
- Nietolerancja laktozy – trudności w trawieniu laktozy, cukru zawartego w mleku i produktach mlecznych, dotykająca około 65% populacji światowej520
- Nietolerancja fruktozy – problemy z trawieniem fruktozy, naturalnego cukru występującego w owocach i miodzie58
- Nietolerancja sztucznych słodzików – sorbitol, erytrytol i mannitol mogą powodować biegunkę u zdrowych osób8
- Celiakia – choroba autoimmunologiczna związana z nietolerancją glutenu, białka zawartego w pszenicy, jęczmieniu i życie521
- Alergie pokarmowe – na przykład na białka mleka krowiego, soję, zboża, jaja i owoce morza22
Choroby zapalne jelit i inne schorzenia przewodu pokarmowego
- Choroba Leśniowskiego-Crohna – powodująca zapalenie tkanek przewodu pokarmowego1411
- Wrzodziejące zapalenie jelita grubego – prowadzące do owrzodzeń i zapalenia błony śluzowej jelita grubego1411
- Mikroskopowe zapalenie jelita grubego – odpowiadające za 10-15% biegunek wydzielniczych23
- Zespół jelita drażliwego (IBS) – częsta przyczyna przewlekłej biegunki, charakteryzująca się bólami brzucha, wzdęciami i zmiennymi wzorcami wypróżnień2324
- Zespół przerostu bakteryjnego jelita cienkiego (SIBO) – charakteryzujący się nadmiernym wzrostem bakterii w jelicie cienkim2518
- Niedokrwienne zapalenie jelita grubego – związane z zaburzonym przepływem krwi w jelitach26
Leki jako przyczyna biegunki
Ponad 700 leków może wywoływać biegunkę jako działanie niepożądane411. Najczęściej biegunkę powodują:
- Antybiotyki – poprzez zaburzanie naturalnej flory jelitowej i potencjalne wywoływanie infekcji Clostridioides difficile527
- Leki przeciwnowotworowe i chemioterapeutyki – szczególnie te stosowane w leczeniu nowotworów jelita grubego i innych nowotworów układu pokarmowego2829
- Środki przeczyszczające – zwłaszcza zawierające magnez530
- Leki na nadciśnienie tętnicze13
- Leki stosowane w leczeniu refluksu żołądkowo-przełykowego, takie jak inhibitory pompy protonowej i antagoniści receptora H214
- Leki przeciwdepresyjne21
- Inhibitory cholinesterazy stosowane w leczeniu choroby Alzheimera28
- Leki przeciwcukrzycowe, zwłaszcza metformina i akarboza28
Inne przyczyny biegunki
- Zaburzenia endokrynologiczne – nadczynność tarczycy, choroba Addisona1123
- Nowotwory – rak jelita grubego, chłoniak, rdzeniak tarczycy, rak trzustki30
- Zabiegi chirurgiczne przewodu pokarmowego – resekcja żołądka (gastrektomia), operacje bariatryczne, usunięcie pęcherzyka żółciowego (cholecystektomia)3123
- Radioterapia – szczególnie napromienianie miednicy lub jamy brzusznej2632
- Zaburzenia wchłaniania kwasów żółciowych – często po cholecystektomii2332
- Nadużywanie alkoholu – szczególnie piwa i wina3330
- Stres i niepokój – przyspieszające perystaltykę jelit3234
- Bieganie – „biegunka biegacza” o niejasnej etiologii3530
Biegunka podróżnicza (traveler’s diarrhea)
Osoby podróżujące do krajów rozwijających się są narażone na biegunkę podróżniczą, powodowaną przez spożycie skażonej żywności lub wody317. Główne czynniki ryzyka obejmują:
- Nieodpowiednie warunki sanitarne i higieniczne21
- Skażona woda pitna lub używana do irygacji upraw36
- Nieodpowiednio przechowywana lub przygotowana żywność7
- Patogeny bakteryjne (najczęstsze, ok. 75-90% przypadków) – głównie Escherichia coli, Campylobacter jejuni, Shigella i Salmonella7
- Wirusy (10-25% przypadków) – norowirus, astrowirusy, sapowirus i rotawirus77
- Pasożyty (rzadziej) – Giardia i Cryptosporidium7
Specyficzne przyczyny biegunki u dzieci
U dzieci występują zarówno podobne przyczyny biegunki jak u dorosłych, jak i specyficzne dla wieku dziecięcego1637:
- Rotawirus – najczęstsza przyczyna ostrej biegunki na świecie wśród dzieci38
- „Biegunka małego dziecka” (toddler’s diarrhea) – jedna z najczęstszych przyczyn przewlekłej biegunki u zdrowych dzieci, spowodowana dietą ubogą w tłuszcze i bogatą w cukry i płyny (zwłaszcza soki owocowe)39
- Nadmierne spożycie soków owocowych – zawierających duże ilości cukrów i węglowodanów, takich jak sorbitol i fruktoza39
- Nietolerancje pokarmowe, w tym nietolerancja laktozy16
- Wrodzone zaburzenia biegunkowe – bardzo rzadkie problemy związane z nieprawidłową budową jelita (enteroptia z kosmkowaniem, mikrokosmkowa choroba inkluzji) lub zaburzeniami transportu jelitowego4040
Patofizjologia biegunki
Biegunka występuje, gdy zaburzony zostaje proces wchłaniania wody i elektrolitów w jelitach lub gdy dochodzi do zwiększonego wydzielania płynów do światła jelita41. W zależności od mechanizmu można wyróżnić kilka typów biegunki:
Biegunka osmotyczna
Występuje, gdy niewchłanialne, rozpuszczalne w wodzie substancje pozostają w jelicie i zatrzymują wodę41. Charakterystyczną cechą biegunki osmotycznej jest to, że ustępuje po zaprzestaniu spożywania słabo wchłanianej substancji lub po zagłodzeniu42. Przyczynami są:
- Nietolerancje cukrów – laktozy, fruktozy, sorbitolu43
- Nadmierne spożycie substancji przeczyszczających zawierających magnez43
- Nietolerancja glutenu (celiakia)23
Biegunka wydzielnicza
Występuje, gdy jelita wydzielają więcej elektrolitów i wody niż są w stanie wchłonąć41. Najczęstsze przyczyny to:
- Infekcje (np. cholera) – toksyny bakteryjne stymulują wydzielanie wody i elektrolitów do światła jelita42
- Mikroskopowe zapalenie jelita grubego23
- Zaburzenia endokrynologiczne23
- Nowotwory endokrynne wytwarzające substancje pobudzające wydzielanie – VIPoma (peptyd wazoaktywny jelitowy), gastrinoma (gastryna), guz chromochłonny (histamina), rdzeniak tarczycy (kalcytonina i prostaglandyny), rakowiak (histamina, serotonina)41
Biegunka zapalna
Występuje, gdy błona śluzowa jelita grubego staje się zapalna, owrzodzona lub przekrwiona, co prowadzi do uwalniania białek, krwi, śluzu i innych płynów, zwiększających objętość i zawartość wody w stolcu43. Przyczynami są:
- Zapalne choroby jelit (choroba Leśniowskiego-Crohna, wrzodziejące zapalenie jelita grubego)23
- Infekcje bakteryjne wywołujące zapalenie (Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter)42
- Infekcja Clostridioides difficile23
- Rak jelita grubego23
Zaburzenia motoryki jelitowej
Przyspieszony pasaż treści jelitowej skraca czas kontaktu z błoną śluzową jelita, co zmniejsza wchłanianie i powoduje biegunkę, nawet jeśli sam proces wchłaniania przebiega prawidłowo4142. Przyczynami są:
- Zespół jelita drażliwego23
- Nadczynność tarczycy44
- Zespół rozrostu bakteryjnego jelita cienkiego (SIBO)18
- Stany po operacjach bariatrycznych lub resekcji jelita4
Biegunka tłuszczowa (zespoły złego wchłaniania)
Charakteryzuje się obecnością tłuszczu w stolcu i tłustym pierścieniem wokół miski toaletowej po spłukaniu43. Przyczynami są:
- Celiakia3
- Przewlekłe zapalenie trzustki3
- Niewydolność zewnątrzwydzielnicza trzustki32
- Zespoły złego wchłaniania26
Klasyfikacja biegunki według czasu trwania
Czas trwania biegunki ma istotne znaczenie diagnostyczne i terapeutyczne34:
Biegunka ostra
Trwa krócej niż 2 tygodnie i najczęściej ma podłoże infekcyjne3. Charakterystyka:
- Najczęściej wywołana przez wirusy (75-90% przypadków)6
- U dorosłych głównie norowirus, u dzieci rotawirus5
- Rzadziej bakterie i pasożyty5
- Zazwyczaj ustępuje samoistnie w ciągu kilku dni45
- Typowe przyczyny: infekcje wirusowe, zatrucia pokarmowe, działania niepożądane leków22
Biegunka przetrwała
Trwa od 2 do 4 tygodni3. Charakterystyka:
- Może być przedłużeniem ostrej biegunki infekcyjnej18
- Wymaga dokładniejszej diagnostyki46
- Często związana z infekcjami pasożytniczymi (Giardia, Cryptosporidium)1818
- Może być wczesnym etapem choroby powodującej przewlekłą biegunkę43
Biegunka przewlekła
Trwa dłużej niż 4 tygodnie43. Charakterystyka:
- Najczęściej ma podłoże nieinfekcyjne3
- Wymaga szczegółowej diagnostyki4
- Często związana z chorobami zapalnymi jelit, zespołem jelita drażliwego, celiakią, mikroskopowym zapaleniem jelita grubego823
- Może być wywołana przez leki, nietolerancje pokarmowe, zaburzenia wchłaniania3
- Niektóre infekcje, takie jak giardioza czy zakażenie C. difficile, mogą prowadzić do przewlekłej biegunki, jeśli nie są leczone14
Czynniki ryzyka wystąpienia biegunki
Określone czynniki mogą zwiększać ryzyko wystąpienia biegunki747:
- Podróże do krajów o niskim standardzie sanitarnym31
- Niedostateczna higiena osobista47
- Spożywanie nieprzygotowanej lub niewłaściwie przechowywanej żywności36
- Picie nieprzegotowanej wody z niepewnych źródeł48
- Kontakt z osobami chorymi na infekcyjną biegunkę47
- Wiek – dzieci i osoby starsze są bardziej podatne7
- Osłabiony układ odpornościowy (np. u pacjentów z HIV/AIDS, po przeszczepach, w trakcie chemioterapii)49
- Stosowanie antybiotyków – zaburzających naturalną florę jelitową7
- Niedożywienie – szczególnie niedobór cynku u dzieci w krajach rozwijających się11
- Przerwy w dostawie energii elektrycznej prowadzące do nieprawidłowego przechowywania żywności7
Konsekwencje i powikłania biegunki
Biegunka może prowadzić do szeregu poważnych powikłań, szczególnie jeśli jest ostra, przedłuża się lub występuje u osób z grup ryzyka2243:
- Odwodnienie – najpoważniejsze powikłanie, szczególnie niebezpieczne u dzieci i osób starszych2250
- Zaburzenia elektrolitowe – utrata sodu, potasu, magnezu, chlorków i wodorowęglanów43
- Niedożywienie – szczególnie u dzieci z przewlekłą biegunką47
- Zespół złego wchłaniania – w następstwie uszkodzenia błony śluzowej jelita22
- Zaostrzenie chorób współistniejących3
- Błędne koło niedożywienia i biegunki – każdy epizod biegunki pogłębia niedożywienie, co zwiększa podatność na kolejne epizody47
Zrozumienie etiologii biegunki jest kluczowe dla właściwego postępowania diagnostycznego i terapeutycznego. Leczenie powinno być ukierunkowane na przyczynę biegunki, a w przypadku ostrej biegunki najważniejsze jest zapobieganie odwodnieniu poprzez odpowiednią nawodnienie i wyrównanie elektrolitów36. W przypadku biegunki przewlekłej konieczna jest dokładna diagnostyka w celu identyfikacji przyczyny i wdrożenia odpowiedniego leczenia194.
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Materiały źródłowe
- #1 Diarrhea – Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diarrhea
Diarrhea is defined by the World Health Organization as having three or more loose or liquid stools per day, or as having more stools than is normal for that person. […] The most common cause is an infection of the intestines due to a virus, bacterium, or parasitea condition also known as gastroenteritis. […] These infections are often acquired from food or water that has been contaminated by feces, or directly from another person who is infected. […] A number of non-infectious causes can result in diarrhea. […] These include lactose intolerance, irritable bowel syndrome, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis, hyperthyroidism, bile acid diarrhea, and a number of medications. […] Acute diarrhea is most commonly due to viral gastroenteritis with rotavirus, which accounts for 40% of cases in children under five.
- #2 Patient education: Acute diarrhea in adults (Beyond the Basics) – UpToDatehttps://www.uptodate.com/contents/acute-diarrhea-in-adults-beyond-the-basics/print
Diarrhea is commonly defined as three or more loose or watery stools per day. […] This topic review discusses the causes and treatments of sudden onset (acute) diarrhea in adults in developed countries. […] Diarrhea can be caused by infections or a variety of other factors. The cause of diarrhea is not identified in most people, especially those who improve without treatment. […] Diarrhea caused by infections usually results from eating or drinking contaminated food or water. […] Diarrhea not related to an infection can occur as a side effect of antibiotics or other drugs, food allergies, gastrointestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, and other diseases. […] A summary of the various common causes of diarrhea is available in the table (table 1). […] Diarrhea can be caused by infections or other factors. Sometimes, the cause of diarrhea is not known. Diarrhea caused by an infection usually begins 12 hours to four days after exposure and resolves within three to seven days. […] Antibiotics are not needed for most people with diarrhea.
- #3 Diarrhea – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelfhttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448082/
Diarrhea is a common condition that varies in severity and etiology. […] Diarrhea is categorized into acute or chronic and infectious or non-infectious based on the duration and type of symptoms. Acute diarrhea is defined as an episode lasting less than 2 weeks. Infection most commonly causes acute diarrhea. Most cases result from a viral infection, and the course is self-limited. Chronic diarrhea is defined as a duration lasting longer than 2 weeks and tends to be non-infectious. Common causes include malabsorption, inflammatory bowel disease, and medication side effects. […] Following are some important considerations to be made while diagnosing and managing diarrhea, as the identification of the etiological agent is very important: […] Common causes of fatty diarrhea include celiac disease and chronic pancreatitis.
- #3 Diarrhea – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelfhttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448082/
In the secretory form of diarrhea, bacterial and viral infections are the common causes. […] Diarrhea results from reduced water absorption by the bowel or increased water secretion. Most acute diarrheal cases have an infectious etiology. […] The treatment of chronic diarrhea is specific to its etiology. […] There are many causes of diarrhea, and the condition is best managed by an interprofessional team that includes nurses and pharmacists.
- #4 Diarrhea – Knowledge @ AMBOSShttps://www.amboss.com/us/knowledge/diarrhea/
For etiologies of acute, persistent, or chronic diarrhea, see specific subsections below. […] The differential diagnosis of chronic diarrhea is extensive. A systematic approach with efficient use of testing is needed to arrive at a diagnosis quickly. […] Chronic diarrhea is commonly classified as watery, fatty, or inflammatory. […] The WHO defines diarrhea as 3 loose or watery stools per day or more frequent passage than is normal for the individual. […] Acute diarrhea lasts 14 days or less and is almost always caused by an infectious agent, typically a virus. […] Persistent diarrhea, lasting 15-30 days, is also typically caused by an infectious agent, but stool testing for pathogens is generally warranted to confirm the diagnosis. […] Chronic diarrhea, defined as diarrhea lasting longer than 30 days, has an extensive differential diagnosis.
- #4 Diarrhea – Knowledge @ AMBOSShttps://www.amboss.com/us/knowledge/diarrhea/
More than 700 medications can cause diarrhea and, therefore, the introduction of a new medication within 6-8 weeks of the onset of diarrhea should be considered as a potential cause. […] Chronic diarrhea is common after bariatric surgery. […] The management of acute diarrhea is primarily supportive, as the disease is usually a self-limited viral infection. Further management focuses on determining whether diagnostic testing and directed therapy are needed (e.g., antibiotic therapy for bacterial gastroenteritis). […] Persistent diarrhea has a broader differential diagnosis than acute diarrhea. Parasitic infection (e.g., giardiasis), recurrent bacterial infection (e.g., C. difficile infection), and noninfectious causes (e.g., IBS-D) must be considered. […] Chronic diarrhea can be classified as inflammatory, fatty, or watery. Grouping patients into broad categories based on clinical features and basic laboratory findings narrows the differential diagnosis and facilitates efficient advanced testing.
- #4 Diarrhea – Knowledge @ AMBOSShttps://www.amboss.com/us/knowledge/diarrhea/
A thorough history followed by systematic stool and blood testing is required to identify the specific etiology. […] The presence of any red flags for severe or rapidly progressing diarrheal disease (e.g., sepsis, extreme dehydration, blood in the stool) mandates escalation of testing and, in some cases, empiric antibiotics for bacterial gastroenteritis. […] Testing is seldom required, as the disease tends to be self-limited and care is primarily supportive. […] Curative treatment is directed toward the underlying cause. […] For specific indications for testing, see the respective subsections below on acute, persistent, and chronic diarrhea. […] Testing is usually limited to stool studies for infectious gastroenteritis. […] Diagnostic testing is seldom indicated in acute diarrhea in the absence of red flag symptoms.
- #5 Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms & Treatmenthttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4108-diarrhea
Common causes of diarrhea include medications, food intolerances and food poisoning. […] Germs, diseases affecting your gut and even treatments can all cause diarrhea. […] The main cause of diarrhea is a virus that infects your gut (gastroenteritis). […] But diarrhea can have lots of causes. […] Pathogens (viruses, bacteria and parasites) can all cause infections that lead to diarrhea. […] The most common cause of diarrhea in adults is the norovirus that causes gastroenteritis. […] Rotavirus is the most common cause of acute diarrhea in children. […] You can ingest harmful toxins and pathogens from contaminated foods or drinks. […] Diarrhea is a common medication side effect. […] Not having enough good bacteria can lead to diarrhea. […] If you’re lactose intolerant, you get diarrhea because your body struggles to digest lactose, the sugar in dairy.
- #5 Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms & Treatmenthttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4108-diarrhea
Some people have trouble digesting fructose, a sugar in honey and fruits that’s added as a sweetener to some foods. […] With celiac disease, you get diarrhea because your body has trouble breaking down gluten, a protein in wheat. […] Diarrhea is a common symptom of conditions that cause irritation and inflammation in your bowels (intestines). […] Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can all cause diarrhea. […] Many people have diarrhea after surgery on their bowels.
- #6 Acute Diarrhea in Adults | AAFPhttps://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2014/0201/p180.html
Acute diarrhea in adults is a common problem encountered by family physicians. The most common etiology is viral gastroenteritis, a self-limited disease. Increases in travel, comorbidities, and foodborne illness lead to more bacteria-related cases of acute diarrhea. […] Infectious causes of acute diarrhea include viruses, bacteria, and, less often, parasites. Noninfectious causes include medication adverse effects, acute abdominal processes, gastroenterologic disease, and endocrine disease. […] Viral infections are the most common cause of acute diarrhea. Bacterial infections are more often associated with travel, comorbidities, and foodborne illness. When a specific organism is identified, the most common causes of acute diarrhea in the United States are Salmonella, Campylobacter, Shigella, and Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (enterohemorrhagic E. coli).
- #6 Acute Diarrhea in Adults | AAFPhttps://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2014/0201/p180.html
The first step to treating acute diarrhea is rehydration, preferably oral rehydration. […] Because acute diarrhea is most often self-limited and caused by viruses, routine antibiotic use is not recommended for most adults with nonsevere, watery diarrhea. Additionally, the overuse of antibiotics can lead to resistance, harmful eradication of normal flora, prolongation of illness, prolongation of carrier state, induction of Shiga toxins, and increased cost. However, when used appropriately, antibiotics are effective for shigellosis, campylobacteriosis, C. difficile, traveler’s diarrhea, and protozoal infections.
- #7 Travelersâ Diarrhea | Yellow Book | CDChttps://www.cdc.gov/yellow-book/hcp/preparing-international-travelers/travelers-diarrhea.html
Travelers’ diarrhea (TD) is the most predictable travel-related illness. […] Poor hygiene practices in local restaurants and underlying hygiene and sanitation infrastructure deficiencies are likely the largest contributors to the risk for TD. […] TD is a clinical syndrome that can result from a variety of intestinal pathogens. Bacteria are the predominant enteropathogens and are thought to account for 75%90% of cases. […] Intestinal viruses account for at least 10%25% of illnesses and are more commonly associated with vomiting. […] Bacteria are the most common cause of TD. Overall, the most common pathogens identified are diarrheagenic Escherichia coli (most prominently enterotoxigenic E. coli, but also including enteroaggregative E. coli and enteropathogenic E. coli), followed by Campylobacter jejuni, Shigella spp., and Salmonella spp.
- #7 Travelersâ Diarrhea | Yellow Book | CDChttps://www.cdc.gov/yellow-book/hcp/preparing-international-travelers/travelers-diarrhea.html
Viral diarrhea can be caused by several pathogens, most notably norovirus, but also including astrovirus, sapovirus, and rotavirus. […] Giardia is the main protozoal pathogen found in TD, followed by Cryptosporidium. […] The risk for Cyclospora is highly geographic and seasonal: the most well-known risks are in Guatemala, Haiti, Nepal, and Peru. […] TD occurs equally in male and female travelers; it is more common in young adult travelers than in older travelers. […] Inadequate electrical capacity leading to frequent blackouts or poorly functioning refrigeration can result in unsafe food storage and an additional increased risk for disease. […] Where provided, effective food-handling courses have been shown to decrease the risk for TD. […] Prophylactic antibiotics afford no protection against nonbacterial pathogens and can remove normally protective microflora from the bowel, increasing the risk for acquisition of resistant bacterial pathogens.
- #7 Travelersâ Diarrhea | Yellow Book | CDChttps://www.cdc.gov/yellow-book/hcp/preparing-international-travelers/travelers-diarrhea.html
Travelers can become colonized with extended-spectrum beta lactamase-producing enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-PE), a risk that is increased by exposure to antibiotics while abroad. […] Antibiotics are effective in reducing the duration of diarrhea by approximately 12 days in cases caused by bacterial pathogens susceptible to the antibiotic prescribed.
- #8 Diarrhea – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diarrhea/symptoms-causes/syc-20352241
Diarrhea can be caused by a number of diseases and conditions, including: […] Viruses that can cause diarrhea include Norwalk virus, also known as norovirus, enteric adenoviruses, astrovirus, cytomegalovirus and viruses that cause hepatitis. […] Exposure to certain bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, or parasites through contaminated food or water can lead to diarrhea. […] Many medicines, such as antibiotics, can cause diarrhea. […] Lactose is a sugar found in milk and other dairy products. People who have trouble digesting lactose often have diarrhea after eating dairy products. […] Fructose can lead to diarrhea in people who have trouble digesting it. […] Sorbitol, erythritol and mannitol nonabsorbable sugars used as artificial sweeteners in chewing gum and other sugar-free products can cause diarrhea in some otherwise healthy people. […] Chronic diarrhea has a number of other causes, such as IBS, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, microscopic colitis and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
- #9 Watery Diarrhea Causes and Reliefhttps://www.verywellhealth.com/watery-diarrhea-overview-4582424
Watery diarrhea means that you have liquid stools, and your colon is unable to absorb all of the water before it passes. Causes include infections (like norovirus) or medical conditions such as celiac disease and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). […] Viruses, bacteria, and parasites can all cause watery diarrhea. Many of them spread through contaminated food, water, or hand-to-mouth behaviors. Other health conditions and medication side effects also cause watery diarrhea. […] The most common causes of viral gastroenteritis include: Rotavirus: This is the most common cause of diarrhea in the world. It accounts for 40% of diarrhea-related hospitalizations in young children. Norovirus: This is the most common foodborne disease in the United States. […] There are several types of bacterial infections associated with watery diarrhea. Most are foodborne and spread through contaminated food or improper hygiene.
- #10 Diarrhea: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiologyhttps://emedicine.medscape.com/article/928598-overview
Infectious causes of acute diarrhea in developed countries include viruses (Rotavirus, Norovirus, Calicivirus, Astrovirus, Enteric-type adenovirus), bacteria (Campylobacter jejuni, Salmonella, E Coli, Shigella, Y enterocolitica, C difficile, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, V cholerae, Aeromonas hydrophila), and parasites (Cryptosporidium, G lamblia).
- #11 Diarrhea – Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diarrhea
Chronic diarrhea can be the part of the presentations of a number of chronic medical conditions affecting the intestine. Common causes include ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, microscopic colitis, celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and bile acid malabsorption. […] There are many causes of infectious diarrhea, which include viruses, bacteria and parasites. […] Infectious diarrhea is frequently referred to as gastroenteritis. […] Norovirus is the most common cause of viral diarrhea in adults, but rotavirus is the most common cause in children under five years old. […] Shiga-toxin producing Escherichia coli, such as E coli o157:h7, are the most common cause of infectious bloody diarrhea in the United States. […] In the elderly, particularly those who have been treated with antibiotics for unrelated infections, a toxin produced by Clostridioides difficile often causes severe diarrhea.
- #11 Diarrhea – Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diarrhea
Proper nutrition is important for health and functioning, including the prevention of infectious diarrhea. […] Zinc deficiency, a condition often found in children in developing countries can, even in mild cases, have a significant impact on the development and proper functioning of the human immune system. […] Diarrhea can be caused by other diseases and conditions, namely: Chronic ethanol ingestion, Hyperthyroidism, Certain medications, Bile acid malabsorption, Ischemic bowel disease, Microscopic colitis, Bile salt malabsorption, Hormone-secreting tumors, Chronic mild diarrhea in infants and toddlers may occur with no obvious cause and with no other ill effects; this condition is called toddler’s diarrhea. […] Over 700 medications, such as penicillin, are known to cause diarrhea.
- #12 Diarrhea – UF Healthhttps://ufhealth.org/conditions-and-treatments/diarrhea
Diarrhea is when you pass loose or watery stool. Campylobacter jejuni infection causes cramping, diarrhea, abdominal pain and fever within 2 to 5 days after a person has been exposed to the organism. Campylobacter jejuni is one of the most common bacterial causes of diarrhea. Most cases of Campylobacter jejuni come from handling or ingesting raw or undercooked poultry meat. […] The most common cause of diarrhea is the stomach flu (viral gastroenteritis). This mild viral infection most often goes away on its own within a few days. Eating or drinking food or water that contains certain types of bacteria or parasites can also lead to diarrhea. This problem may be called food poisoning. Certain medicines may also cause diarrhea, including: Some antibiotics, Chemotherapy drugs for cancer, Laxatives containing magnesium. Diarrhea may also be caused by medical disorders, such as: Celiac disease, Inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis), Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Lactose intolerance (which causes problems after drinking milk and eating other dairy products), Malabsorption syndromes.
- #13 Diarrhoea | Better Health Channelhttps://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/diarrhoea
Diarrhoea is the frequent passing of loose, watery faeces. […] The most common cause of acute diarrhoea is an infection of the intestines, such as gastroenteritis or food poisoning. Viruses are responsible for most cases. […] A bout of diarrhoea can be caused by a wide range of disorders, infections and events including: food poisoning, gastroenteritis, tropical diseases, such as typhoid and cholera, anxiety or emotional stress, overconsumption of alcohol, medications, particularly antibiotics. […] Person to person spread, as well as contaminated food and water are common infectious causes of acute diarrhoea. Some of the infectious agents known to cause diarrhoea include: viruses such as norovirus, calici virus, adenovirus and rotavirus, bacteria such as E. coli, Campylobacter, V. cholerae, Shigella, Salmonella and Staphylococcus aureus, parasites such as Giardia lamblia, Cryptosporidium parvum and tapeworm.
- #13 Diarrhoea | Better Health Channelhttps://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/diarrhoea
Some of the causes of chronic diarrhoea include: medications including antibiotics, magnesium and antacids that contain magnesium, laxatives, and drugs for treating diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure) and arthritis, as well as some immunosuppressive drugs, diverticular disease, inflammatory bowel disease including ulcerative colitis and Crohns disease, irritable bowel syndrome symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, and alternating constipation and diarrhoea, lactose intolerance the inability to digest the milk sugar lactose, coeliac disease which reduces the intestines ability to absorb food, chronic constipation the bowel is blocked by hard, impacted faeces, but some liquids manage to seep past the blockage. […] Successful treatment depends on diagnosing the cause.
- #14 Diarrheahttps://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/diarrhea/basics/causes/sym-20050926
Acute or persistent diarrhea causes may include: Antibiotic-associated diarrhea or other problems caused by medicines. Artificial sweeteners C. difficile infection Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) Cryptosporidium infection Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection E. coli Food intolerances Food poisoning Fructose intolerance Giardia infection (giardiasis) or other infections caused by parasites. Lactose intolerance Norovirus infection Medicines, such as antacids containing magnesium and some cancer treatments Rotavirus or infections caused by other viruses. Salmonella infection or other infections that may be caused by bacteria. Shigella infection Stomach surgery Traveler’s diarrhea […] Chronic diarrhea causes may include: Celiac disease Colon cancer cancer that starts in the part of the large intestine called the colon. Crohn’s disease which causes tissues in the digestive tract to become inflamed. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) Irritable bowel syndrome a group of symptoms that affect the stomach and intestines. Medications used to treat heartburn, such as proton pump inhibitors and H-2 receptor antagonists Radiation therapy Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) Ulcerative colitis a disease that causes ulcers and swelling called inflammation in the lining of the large intestine. Whipple’s disease […] Some infections, such as giardia or C. difficile infection, may lead to chronic diarrhea if not treated.
- #15 Watery Diarrhea Causes and Reliefhttps://www.verywellhealth.com/watery-diarrhea-overview-4582424
Parasitic gastrointestinal infections are most common in areas with poor access to clean water and sanitation. Many different types of parasites can lead to watery diarrhea, some of which are common in the United States. […] Infectious diseases are the most common cause of watery diarrhea, but some non-infectious causes can also lead to frequent bouts of diarrhea. Other digestive conditions include: Lactose, sucrose, or fructose intolerance, Celiac disease, Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohns disease and ulcerative colitis, Pancreatic conditions, Small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Diabetes complications. […] There are many reasons for watery diarrhea, including viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections as well as medical conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
- #16 Diarrhea (for Parents) | Nemours KidsHealthhttps://kidshealth.org/en/parents/diarrhea.html
Diarrhea is usually caused by an infection in the intestines, called gastroenteritis. […] The germs that cause gastroenteritis are: viruses (most common), bacteria, parasites. […] Many different types of bacteria can cause diarrhea, including E. coli, Salmonella, Campylobacter, and Shigella. […] Giardia is the most common parasitic infection that causes diarrhea in kids. […] Kids can sometimes get diarrhea from drinking too much juice and other sugar-sweetened beverages, food allergies, lactose intolerance, antibiotics, medical problems like celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease, and irritable bowel syndrome.
- #17 Diarrhea (for Teens) | Nemours KidsHealthhttps://kidshealth.org/en/teens/diarrhea.html
Diarrhea is usually caused by an infection in the intestines. The germs that cause the infection are: viruses (most common), bacteria, parasites. […] In developed countries like the United States, outbreaks of diarrhea are most often due to what we call food poisoning. Food poisoning happens when toxins are made by bacteria in food that isn’t handled, stored, or cooked safely. […] Other bacterial infections that can cause diarrhea include E. coli, salmonellosis, and shigellosis. […] The Giardia parasite spreads easily through contaminated water and human contact. This parasite can spread in water parks and pools because it is resistant to chlorine treatment. […] Another parasite, Cryptosporidium, is a common culprit behind diarrhea epidemics in childcare centers and other public places. Cryptosporidium often causes watery diarrhea that can last for 2 weeks or more.
- #18 Post-Travel Diarrhea | Yellow Book | CDChttps://www.cdc.gov/yellow-book/hcp/post-travel-evaluation/post-travel-diarrhea.html
Giardia duodenalis is the most likely parasitic pathogen to cause persistent diarrhea. […] Infection with Entamoeba histolytica, or amebiasis, can result in intestinal symptoms ranging from mild diarrhea to dysentery. […] Cryptosporidium spp. are emerging as common protozoans causing persistent diarrhea in both returning travelers and U.S. residents. […] Persistent TD also has been associated with tropical sprue and Brainerd diarrhea, both of which are believed to be caused by an infectious agent, although their culprit pathogens have yet to be identified. […] In some cases, persistent symptoms relate to chronic underlying GI disease or to a susceptibility unmasked by the enteric infection. […] Idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s disease, microscopic colitis, and ulcerative colitis, can occur after acute bouts of TD.
- #18 Post-Travel Diarrhea | Yellow Book | CDChttps://www.cdc.gov/yellow-book/hcp/post-travel-evaluation/post-travel-diarrhea.html
In some patients who present with persistent GI symptoms, healthcare professionals will not find a specific cause. After an acute diarrheal infection, patients might experience a temporary enteropathy characterized by villous atrophy, decreased absorptive surface area, and disaccharidase deficiencies, which can lead to osmotic diarrhea, particularly after consuming large amounts of fructose, lactose, sorbitol, or sucrose. […] Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth is characterized by an excess of bacteria in the small intestine and is associated with intestinal motility disorders.
- #18 Post-Travel Diarrhea | Yellow Book | CDChttps://www.cdc.gov/yellow-book/hcp/post-travel-evaluation/post-travel-diarrhea.html
While acute travelers’ diarrhea (i.e., diarrhea lasting less than 2 weeks) is usually self-limited and the etiologies are mostly infectious pathogens (see Travelers’ Diarrhea chapter), the pathogenesis of persistent diarrhea (i.e., diarrhea lasting 2 weeks or longer) in returned travelers generally falls into 1 of the following broad categories: ongoing infection or co-infection with a second organism not targeted by initial therapy; previously undiagnosed GI disease unmasked by the enteric infection; or a post-infectious phenomenon. […] Most cases of TD are the result of bacterial or viral infection and are short-lived and self-limited. In addition to prolonged symptoms of typical pathogens among immunosuppressed persons and sequential infection with different pathogens, ongoing infection with parasites can cause prolonged diarrheal symptoms.
- #18 Post-Travel Diarrhea | Yellow Book | CDChttps://www.cdc.gov/yellow-book/hcp/post-travel-evaluation/post-travel-diarrhea.html
While individual bacterial infections rarely cause persistent symptoms, travelers infected with bacteria known to cause mucosal inflammation, such as Campylobacter spp., Shigella spp., or Salmonella spp., as well as diarrheagenic Escherichia coli, can experience persistent diarrhea, including cases where the organism may be resistant against antibiotics commonly used for empiric treatment of TD. […] Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea can occur after or during antibiotic use, including malaria chemoprophylaxis. The association between C. difficile and antimicrobial treatment is especially important to consider in patients with persistent TD that seems refractory to multiple courses of empiric antibiotic therapy. […] As a group, parasites are the pathogens most likely to be isolated from patients with persistent diarrhea. Most parasitic infections have a less acute onset of symptoms than those caused by bacteria or viruses, and the probability of a traveler having a parasitic infection increases with increasing duration of symptoms.
- #19 Chronic Diarrhea: What It Is, Causes & Treatment Optionshttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24311-chronic-diarrhea
Chronic diarrhea means having loose stools regularly for more than four weeks. A wide range of diseases can cause it. Sometimes, it turns out to be something you’re eating or a medication you’re taking. […] Many diseases can cause chronic diarrhea, but so can certain foods and medications. […] Some people have chronic bowel diseases that cause chronic diarrhea. These diseases may not be curable, but you can treat the symptoms. Other causes are often curable with the right treatment. […] Common causes of diarrhea include coffee, sweeteners, dairy products and certain medications. […] Many medications can cause chronic diarrhea as a side effect. […] Healthcare providers sometimes classify diarrhea into three or four types as a way of narrowing down the cause. […] Inflammatory diarrhea is caused by inflammation in your colon (colitis).
- #19 Chronic Diarrhea: What It Is, Causes & Treatment Optionshttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24311-chronic-diarrhea
Inflammatory conditions that can cause chronic diarrhea include persistent infections, such as parasites or C. diff (pseudomembranous colitis), inflammatory bowel disease (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease), ischemic colitis, diverticulitis, radiation colitis, and cancer. […] If it doesn’t go away with simple diet and medication changes, you need to see a healthcare provider. The provider will thoroughly examine the possible causes of your chronic diarrhea in order to identify the right treatment.
- #20 Chronic diarrhea: Causes and treatmentshttps://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319995
Diarrhea occurs when a person has loose or watery stools. Many different conditions have diarrhea as a symptom. Treatment may include taking medications, making dietary changes, and staying hydrated. […] There are many potential causes of chronic diarrhea. Some of the most common include: […] Drinking large amounts of alcohol or beverages that contain caffeine, such as coffee or cola, can cause loose and watery stools. […] Certain sugars and artificial sweeteners may cause diarrhea. Consuming these sweet substances every day can even lead to chronic diarrhea. […] This is a natural sugar in dairy that can cause chronic diarrhea in people whose bodies cannot digest it. Around 65% of people around the world have problems digesting lactose, or lactose intolerance. […] Chronic diarrhea can be an adverse effect of several prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications.
- #21 Diarrhea: Symptoms & Causes | NewYork-Presbyterianhttps://www.nyp.org/primary-care/diarrhea
One of the main symptoms of malabsorption syndrome is diarrhea. […] Poor sanitation and hygiene and inadequate water sources are the main risk factors for diarrhea-related diseases. […] Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is an intestinal condition marked by bloating, gas, and belly pain, with either constipation or diarrhea. […] Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease affecting a person’s ability to digest wheat, barley, or rye.
- #21 Diarrhea: Symptoms & Causes | NewYork-Presbyterianhttps://www.nyp.org/primary-care/diarrhea
Diarrhea is defined as frequent bowel movements of loose, watery stool. […] Diarrhea that lasts longer than a week or two could be a sign of a more severe condition such as IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), an intestinal infection, celiac disease, or IBD (inflammatory bowel disease). […] The leading symptom of diarrhea is loose or watery stool. […] Severe diarrhea can be an indication of a more serious, underlying condition. […] Viral gastroenteritis is caused by a virus that causes inflammation in the lining of the GI tract. […] Bacterial gastroenteritis exhibits similar symptoms to viral gastroenteritis. However, it is caused by bacterial infections in the GI tract. […] There are numerous microbes responsible for causing gastrointestinal infections that can result in diarrhea. […] Some medicines that can cause diarrhea include antibiotics, antidepressants, antacids, and chemotherapy drugs.
- #22 Symptoms & Causes of Diarrhea – NIDDKhttps://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/diarrhea/symptoms-causes
Diarrhea may also cause dehydration and malabsorption. […] Diarrhea can become dangerous if it leads to severe dehydration. Diarrhea may also be a sign of a more serious problem. […] The most common causes of acute diarrhea are viral gastroenteritis, food poisoning, and medicine side effects. […] Diarrhea can be a symptom of food poisoning. Food poisoning is an infection or irritation of your digestive tract that spreads through foods or drinks. […] Some infections, food allergies and intolerances, digestive tract problems, abdominal surgery, and long-term use of medicines can cause persistent and chronic diarrhea. […] Allergies to foods such as cows milk, soy, cereal grains, eggs, and seafood may cause chronic diarrhea. […] Certain medicines that must be taken for a long time may cause chronic diarrhea.
- #23 Chronic Diarrhea in Adults: Evaluation and Differential Diagnosis | AAFPhttps://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2020/0415/p472.html
Diarrhea commonly seen after cholecystectomy is attributed to bile acid malabsorption. […] Microscopic colitis is estimated to cause 10% to 15% of all secretory diarrheas and is also present in 5% to 10% of patients who are diagnosed with IBS. […] IBD encompasses the diagnoses of Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis. […] Celiac disease, also known as celiac sprue or gluten-sensitive enteropathy, usually causes malabsorptive fatty diarrhea, but it can also cause osmotic diarrhea through bile acid malabsorption. […] Most infectious diarrhea is acute and self-limited, but some infections can cause chronic symptoms. […] Endocrine disorders such as hyperthyroidism, Addison disease, and diabetes mellitus should be suspected as underlying pathologies in disordered gut motility or auto-immune enteropathy when other signs or symptoms of these disorders are present.
- #23 Chronic Diarrhea in Adults: Evaluation and Differential Diagnosis | AAFPhttps://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2020/0415/p472.html
Chronic diarrhea is defined as a predominantly loose stool lasting longer than four weeks. […] Common causes include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), celiac disease, and microscopic colitis. […] Functional disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome and functional diarrhea are common causes of chronic diarrhea. […] Secretory diarrhea can be caused by bile acid malabsorption, microscopic colitis, endocrine disorders, and some postsurgical states. […] Inflammatory diarrhea warrants further evaluation and can be caused by disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease, Clostridioides difficile, colitis, and colorectal cancer. […] The differential diagnosis for chronic diarrhea is broad; however, a thorough history and physical examination can narrow the diagnostic evaluation.
- #24 Diarrhea: Causes, treatment, and symptomshttps://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/158634
Diarrhea can range from a mild, temporary condition to a potentially life threatening one. Common causes include viruses, bacteria, and parasites. […] Most cases of diarrhea are due to bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Digestive disorders can also cause chronic diarrhea. […] Many cases of diarrhea are due to an infection or disruption of the gastrointestinal tract. Common causes of acute diarrhea include food poisoning, viral gastroenteritis, and medicine side effects. […] Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are a common causes of functional chronic diarrhea. […] Some other major causes of chronic diarrhea include microscopic colitis, malabsorptive and maldigestive diarrhea, chronic infections, drug-induced diarrhea, endocrine-related causes, and cancer-related causes. […] Diarrhea can also indicate a wide range of underlying chronic conditions. […] Diarrhea is a common problem with many potential causes.
- #25 What Causes Diarrhea? 13 Causes & What To Do – Tua Saúdehttps://www.tuasaude.com/en/why-do-i-have-diarrhea/
Traveling, especially to countries with poor sanitation conditions, can increase your risk for acquiring a bacterial infection, like E. coli, Campylobacter jejuni, Shigella or Salmonella, all which can cause traveler’s diarrhea. […] Excessive laxatives can cause diarrhea due to irritation of the intestinal mucosa and imbalances in intestinal flora and electrolytes. […] Small intestine bacterial overgrowth, or SIBO, typically presents with chronic watery diarrhea, intestinal cramps and malnutrition.
- #26 Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments | Live Sciencehttps://www.livescience.com/34719-diarrhea-intestinal-flu-dehydration.html
Diarrhea that lasts longer than four weeks is known as chronic diarrhea. Like acute diarrhea, chronic diarrhea has many causes. According to Lustbader, these causes include: […] Infectious causes (most commonly parasites) […] Osmotic and malabsorption causes (which result in too much water being absorbed into the bowel), such as Celiac disease and lactose intolerance […] Inflammatory causes, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease […] Intestinal ischemia, or lessened blood flow to the intestine […] Certain cancer therapies, like radiation […] Certain medications, such as antibiotics.
- #27 Diarrhea – Harvard Healthhttps://www.health.harvard.edu/a_to_z/diarrhea-a-to-z
Diarrhea is more frequent and more liquid bowel movements than normal. There are many causes. Diarrhea often is caused by an infection with bacteria, viruses or a parasite. Bacteria cause diarrhea either by invading the intestine or by producing a toxin that makes the intestine secrete more water. […] Other causes of diarrhea include: irritable bowel syndrome, especially during times of increased stress; side effects from medications, such as antibiotics and magnesium-containing antacids; overuse of laxatives; inflammation of the lowest part of the intestine (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease).
- #28 Diarrhea: Causes, Treatment & Home Remedieshttps://resources.healthgrades.com/right-care/digestive-health/diarrhea
Diarrhea may arise from problems in the digestive tract including: Appendicitis, Bacterial or parasitic infection of the gastrointestinal tract, Celiac disease, Digestive tract surgery, Diverticulitis, Fecal impaction, Food intolerances or allergies (lactose, fructose or gluten intolerance), Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohnâs disease, ulcerative colitis), Intestinal obstruction, Irritable bowel syndrome, Laxative use or abuse, Malabsorption syndromes, Pancreatitis, Travelerâs diarrhea, Tumors of the small or large intestine (benign or malignant), Viral gastroenteritis (stomach or intestinal flu). […] Drug-induced diarrhea is a common side effect of several medications including: Alzheimerâs cholinesterase inhibitors, such as donepezil (Aricept), galantamine (Razadyne), and rivastigmine (Exelon), Antibiotics, which are one of the most common causes of drug-induced diarrhea, Chemotherapy drugs, especially the ones that treat colon cancer and other gastrointestinal cancers, Diabetes drugs, particularly metformin (Glucophage) and acarbose (Precose), Heartburn drugs, including magnesium-containing antacids, H2 blockers, and PPIs (proton pump inhibitors), Laxatives, including osmotics, such as milk of magnesia, and stimulants, such as bisacodyl (Dulcolax).
- #29 What Is Diarrhea? | American Cancer Societyhttps://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/side-effects/stool-or-urine-changes/diarrhea.html
Diarrhea can lead to other problems, such as: […] Many people with cancer have diarrhea at some point. Some common causes of diarrhea in people with cancer include: […] Certain cancers like pancreas, gastric, and colorectal […] Chemotherapy (chemo), especially 5-fluorouracil (5FU), capecitabine, and irinotecan […] Immunotherapy, especially immune-checkpoint inhibitors […] Targeted drug therapy, especially tyrosine kinase inhibitors […] Radiation therapy to the brain, abdomen (belly), pelvis, bowel, bladder, or reproductive organs […] Infections such as Clostridioides difficile (also known as C. diff) or neutropenic enterocolitis (also known as typhlitis) […] Small bowel obstructions (blockages) […] Graft versus host disease (GVHD) after a bone marrow (stem cell) transplant.
- #30 Diarrhea: Symptoms, Causes & How to Get Rid of Diarrheahttps://www.emedicinehealth.com/diarrhea/article_em.htm
Reaction to certain medications can cause drug-induced diarrhea including antibiotics, blood pressure medications, cancer drugs, gout medications, weight loss drugs, and antacids (especially those containing magnesium). […] Intolerance or allergies to foods such as artificial sweeteners found in sugar-free foods and lactose intolerance (to the sugar found in milk) can cause chronic diarrhea. […] Alcohol abuse can cause diarrhea. […] Laxative abuse is one of the biggest self-induced causes of diarrhea, by taking too many laxatives, or taking them too frequently. […] Some cancers are more likely to cause diarrhea, including carcinoid syndrome, colon cancer, lymphoma, medullary carcinoma of the thyroid, pancreatic cancer, and pheochromocytoma. […] Diarrhea may last up to three weeks after chemotherapy ends. […] Digestive surgery including stomach or intestinal surgery may cause diarrhea. […] Running can cause diarrhea (sometimes referred to as „runner’s trots”).
- #31 Diarrhea | MedlinePlushttps://medlineplus.gov/diarrhea.html
Diarrhea is loose, watery stools (bowel movements). You have diarrhea if you have loose stools three or more times in one day. […] The most common causes of diarrhea include: Bacteria from contaminated food or water, Viruses such as the flu, norovirus, or rotavirus. Rotavirus is the most common cause of acute diarrhea in children. […] Chronic diarrhea — diarrhea that lasts at least four weeks — can be a symptom of a chronic disease. […] Some people also get diarrhea after stomach surgery, because sometimes the surgeries can cause food to move through your digestive system more quickly. […] People who visit developing countries are at risk for traveler’s diarrhea. It is caused by consuming contaminated food or water. […] If a virus or bacteria is the cause of your diarrhea, you may also have a fever, chills, and bloody stools.
- #32 Diarrhoea | Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Support | Guts UKhttps://gutscharity.org.uk/advice-and-information/symptoms/diarrhoea/
Bile acid malabsorption (BAM). This is a disturbance of the cycle of bile acid distribution in the body. […] Pelvic radiation disease. Radiation treatment can harm the digestive tract. […] Surgery. Removal of large parts of the digestive tract can result in diarrhoea. […] Dumping syndrome. This is a disorder of gut-brain interaction. […] Functional Diarrhoea. This is a disorder of gut-brain interaction. […] Other medical conditions can cause diarrhoea, but they are much rarer.
- #32 Diarrhoea | Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Support | Guts UKhttps://gutscharity.org.uk/advice-and-information/symptoms/diarrhoea/
This factsheet explains what diarrhoea disorders are. When it is a problem needing you to tell your doctor about it and what treatment is available. […] Diarrhoea can occur when one or more of these processes become faulty. Examples include: When bugs like bacteria or viruses damage the lining of the gut. When there is excessive fluid secretion into the bowel. […] There are many reasons why diarrhoea can occur. Common causes include: Bowel infection (gastroenteritis). This is the most common cause of acute diarrhoea. […] Food poisoning. This is another type of bowel infection. Contaminated food or water causes food poisoning. The contamination is by bacteria. […] Medicines. Diarrhoea can occur during or after a course of antibiotics. Other medicines may also cause diarrhoea. […] Anxiety. Anxiety and stress can speed up bowel movements. This can cause diarrhoea.
- #32 Diarrhoea | Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Support | Guts UKhttps://gutscharity.org.uk/advice-and-information/symptoms/diarrhoea/
Overactive thyroid. The thyroid gland produces chemicals (hormones). These help control the running of the body. […] Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Approximately 1 in 3 people with IBS have diarrhoea. […] Food intolerance. The most common food intolerance is lactose. […] Pancreatic exocrine insufficiency (PEI). The pancreas has 2 functions. One of these is to produce digestive enzymes to help digest the food we eat. […] Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). These are a range of autoimmune diseases. […] Bowel cancer. Diarrhoea can be a symptom of bowel cancer in some people. […] Coeliac disease. This is an autoimmune condition. When gluten is eaten, it causes symptoms. […] Microscopic colitis. This is an inflammatory disease of the bowel, which is not visible by looking at the bowel wall with a camera (colonoscopy).
- #33 Common Causes of Chronic Diarrhea – IFFGDhttps://iffgd.org/gi-disorders/lower-gi-disorders/diarrhea/common-causes/
Chronic diarrhea has many causes. Some are caused by disease. This type of diarrhea is usually painless and persistent, and there are no signs of disease such as bleeding, anemia, weight loss, or fatigue. Frequent loose stools are a daily occurrence. Very frequently, the diarrhea is due to something in the diet that is taken in excess. Usually this is an excess of a sugar or chemical substance. Common examples are alcohol and caffeine. An excess of alcohol, especially beer and wine, may cause loose stools the next day. Caffeine-containing drinks have a laxative potential. More than two or three cups of coffee or tea daily can often cause diarrhea. Some sugars can cause diarrhea. For example, the artificial sugar sorbitol is used as a sweetener. It has no calories, but is a known laxative if taken in sufficient amount. Fructose is a natural calorie-containing sugar found in fruit. It is one reason why large amounts of fruit can cause diarrhea. Lactose intolerance is the cause of chronic diarrhea in some people. Lactose is a sugar that is contained in cows milk. Many regular medicines can have diarrhea as an unwanted side effect. True food allergies are rare as a cause of chronic diarrhea. Occasionally, chronic unexplained diarrhea may be due to an infection with an intestinal parasite. If one is suffering from chronic diarrhea, it is important to note if there have been previous intestinal operations.
- #34 Morning Diarrhea: Causes, Treatment, and Preventionhttps://www.volusiamedicalcenter.net/post/morning-diarrhea-causes-treatment-and-prevention
Medications like antibiotics can be bad for your digestive system because they can kill off the good bacteria that help your body work well. […] When you’re stressed or anxious, your body can react in ways that make your digestive system less efficient. […] Foods that have a lot of fat or caffeine in them, like greasy food or coffee, can make your body get rid of waste faster. […] If you’re lactose or gluten-intolerant, your body might not be able to digest these foods well. […] Your hormones can change a lot when you’re sleeping, and these changes can have an impact on your digestion.
- #35 Common Causes of Diarrheahttps://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/digestive-diseases-diarrhea
When you have diarrhea, your bowel movements (or stools) are loose and watery. Its common and usually not serious. […] A virus in your gut is the usual cause of diarrhea, but other things like a food allergy can also trigger it. […] Usually, diarrhea happens because of a virus that gets into your gut. Some people call it „intestinal flu” or „stomach flu.” Other causes include: Allergies to certain foods, Diseases of the intestines (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis), Eating foods that upset the digestive system, Infection by bacteria (the cause of most types of food poisoning) or other organisms like parasites, Laxative abuse or a reaction to medications like antibiotics and certain cancer drugs, Running (Some people get runners diarrhea for reasons that arent clear.), Some cancers, Surgery on your digestive system, Trouble absorbing certain nutrients, also called malabsorption, Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). […] Common causes of diarrhea include infections, food allergies, and food poisoning. It’s often due to a virus infecting your gut, but it can also result from medications or dietary issues.
- #36 The Causes of Diarrheahttps://www.houstongidocs.com/blog/903821-the-causes-of-diarrhea
Diarrhea is experienced by everyone and can be a sign of a serious disorder, such as inflammatory bowel disease, or even irritable bowel syndrome, especially if your diarrhea it lasts for several weeks. […] Diarrhea can also be dangerous. Here are few facts according to the CDC: […] Approximately 88% of diarrhea-associated deaths are due to unsanitary water and insufficient hygiene. […] Diarrhea causes more deaths in children than malaria, measles, and AIDS all together. […] Contamination may occur to your water, food or objects that you use in several ways: […] People and animals defecate in water that people use for drinking. […] People use unclean water when irrigating crops. […] People don’t wash their hands before preparing food. […] People with contaminated hands touch objects, such as cooking utensils.
- #37 Diarrhea in Children – Children’s Health Issues – MSD Manual Consumer Versionhttps://www.msdmanuals.com/home/children-s-health-issues/symptoms-in-infants-and-children/diarrhea-in-children
Diarrhea is frequent, loose, or watery bowel movements (BMs) that differ from a child’s normal pattern. It is a very common problem in children. […] Worldwide, diarrhea causes 1.2 million deaths a year. In the United States, diarrhea accounts for approximately 9% of hospitalizations for children under 5 years old. […] Likely causes of diarrhea depend on whether it lasts less than 2 weeks (acute) or more than 2 weeks (chronic). Most cases of diarrhea are acute. […] Acute diarrhea is usually caused by infectious gastroenteritis, food poisoning, use of antibiotics, and food allergies. […] Gastroenteritis is usually caused by a virus, but it can be caused by bacteria or a parasite. […] Food poisoning usually refers to diarrhea, vomiting, or both caused by eating food contaminated by toxins produced by certain bacteria, such as staphylococci or clostridia.
- #38 Explosive Diarrhea: Causes, Treatment, and Morehttps://www.healthline.com/health/explosive-diarrhea
Diarrhea is a symptom that occurs with a number of conditions. The most common causes for severe diarrhea include: […] Bacteria that cause diarrhea-producing infections include salmonella and E. coli. Contaminated food and fluids are common sources of bacterial infections. […] Rotavirus, norovirus, and other kinds of viral gastroenteritis, commonly referred to as stomach flu, are among the viruses that can cause explosive diarrhea. […] Parasites like Giardia lamblia and cryptosporidium can cause severe diarrhea, particularly in people with weakened immune systems. […] Diarrhea is a common problem for people who have an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohns disease or ulcerative colitis, or celiac disease. […] Many medications can cause diarrhea. Antibiotics, certain medications used to treat heartburn and acid reflux, and chemotherapy drugs are frequent culprits. […] Diarrhea often occurs when you are allergic to, or have an intolerance of, certain foods, like the lactose found in dairy products.
- #39 Toddler’s Diarrhea | Riley Children’s Healthhttps://www.rileychildrens.org/health-info/toddlers-diarrhea
Toddler’s diarrhea (also known as chronic nonspecific diarrhea of childhood) is one of the most common causes of chronic diarrhea in otherwise healthy children. […] There are several factors that contribute to toddler’s diarrhea, including: […] Excessive fluid intake. Too much fluid can overwhelm the ability of a toddler’s digestive tract to absorb water and electrolytes, resulting in diarrhea. […] Carbohydrate malabsorption. Fruit juices often contain large amounts of sugars and carbohydrates, such as sorbitol and fructose, which are poorly absorbed in a child’s digestive tract. […] Low-fat/high-fiber diet. Many children may prefer fruits and/or vegetables over meat or higher fat foods. Fat can slow down a child’s digestion allowing more time for absorption of nutrients. Diets high in fiber and low in fat may cause food to move through the intestines rapidly resulting in diarrhea.
- #40 Congenital Diarrheal Disorders | Causes, Symptoms & Treatmenthttps://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/c/congenital-diarrheal-disorders
Some infants can be born having very loose, large volume stools that occur multiple times in a day. The diarrhea usually starts within the first two to four weeks of life. […] There are some very rare problems that may cause this severe diarrhea. Most of these problems are with the lining of the intestine (tufting enteropathy, microvillus inclusion disease), or the way the intestine works (transport defects). […] In these disorders, the lining of the intestine is different from the normal intestine. The shape and structure of the intestine leads to poor absorption / uptake of food. […] Whenever a baby has such severe diarrhea in the first month of life that he or she needs to be hospitalized, a careful search for the cause is very important. […] Malabsorption syndromes: These are disorders in which the intestines are unable to absorb complex foods. The patient will have large volume stools after eating.
- #40 Congenital Diarrheal Disorders | Causes, Symptoms & Treatmenthttps://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/c/congenital-diarrheal-disorders
Congenital transport defects: Patients secrete and are unable to absorb large amounts of salt (sodium or chloride or potassium) from their intestines and have large volume, loose stools. The loose stools can occur at any time and not just when eating. […] Structural defects: The lining of the intestines is abnormal and as a result does not function normally. This includes disorders like microvillus inclusion and tufting enteropathy. […] Autoimmune enteropathy: This condition occurs when the bodys own immune system attacks itself and irritates or inflames the lining of the intestine.
- #41 Diarrhea – Gastrointestinal Disorders – Merck Manual Professional Editionhttps://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gastrointestinal-disorders/symptoms-of-gastrointestinal-disorders/diarrhea
Complications may result from diarrhea of any etiology. […] There are a number of causes of diarrhea. […] The 3 most common are increased osmotic load, increased secretions/decreased absorption, and decreased contact time/surface area. […] Diarrhea occurs when unabsorbable, water-soluble solutes remain in the bowel and retain water. […] Diarrhea occurs when the bowels secrete more electrolytes and water than they absorb. […] Infections (eg, gastroenteritis) are the most common causes of secretory diarrhea. […] Unabsorbed dietary fat and bile acids (as in malabsorption syndromes and after ileal resection) can stimulate colonic secretion and cause diarrhea. […] Various endocrine tumors produce secretagogues, including VIPomas (vasoactive intestinal peptide), gastrinomas (gastrin), mastocytosis (histamine), medullary carcinoma of the thyroid (calcitonin and prostaglandins), and carcinoid tumors (histamine, serotonin, and polypeptides). […] Rapid intestinal transit and diminished surface area impair fluid absorption and cause diarrhea.
- #42 Pathophysiology of Diarrheahttps://vivo.colostate.edu/hbooks/pathphys/digestion/smallgut/diarrhea.html
Diarrhea is an increase in the volume of stool or frequency of defecation. […] There are numerous causes of diarrhea, but in almost all cases, this disorder is a manifestation of one of the four basic mechanisms described below. […] A distinguishing feature of osmotic diarrhea is that it stops after the patient is fasted or stops consuming the poorly absorbed solute. […] Diarrhea occurs when secretion of water into the intestinal lumen exceeds absorption. […] Many millions of people have died of the secretory diarrhea associated with cholera. […] Exposure to toxins from several other types of bacteria induce the same series of steps and massive secretory diarrhea that is often lethal unless the person or animal is aggressively treated to maintain hydration. […] Disruption of the epithelium of the intestine due to microbial or viral pathogens is a very common cause of diarrhea in all species.
- #42 Pathophysiology of Diarrheahttps://vivo.colostate.edu/hbooks/pathphys/digestion/smallgut/diarrhea.html
Examples of pathogens frequently associated with infectious diarrhea include: Bacteria: Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter. […] The immune response to inflammatory conditions in the bowel contributes substantively to development of diarrhea. […] Disorders in motility than accelerate transit time could decrease absorption, resulting in diarrhea even if the absorptive process per se was proceeding properly.
- #43 Diarrhea in Adults – Digestive Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Versionhttps://www.merckmanuals.com/home/digestive-disorders/symptoms-of-digestive-disorders/diarrhea-in-adults
Many medical conditions and treatments can decrease the amount of time that stool stays in the large intestine. […] Osmotic diarrhea occurs when certain substances that cannot be absorbed through the colon wall remain in the intestine. […] Secretory diarrhea occurs when the small and large intestines secrete salts (especially sodium chloride) and water into the stool. […] Inflammatory diarrhea occurs when the lining of the large intestine becomes inflamed, ulcerated, or engorged and releases proteins, blood, mucus, and other fluids, which increase the bulk and fluid content of the stool. […] Diarrhea caused by malabsorption is characterized by oil or grease in the stool and an oily rim around the toilet bowl after stool is flushed. […] Certain infections and certain medications can also cause chronic diarrhea.
- #43 Diarrhea in Adults – Digestive Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Versionhttps://www.merckmanuals.com/home/digestive-disorders/symptoms-of-digestive-disorders/diarrhea-in-adults
Diarrhea can lead to dehydration and a loss of electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, chloride, and bicarbonate, from the blood. […] There are many different causes of diarrhea, depending on how long the diarrhea has lasted. […] The most common causes of acute diarrhea (lasting less than 4 days) are infection with viruses, bacteria, or parasites (gastroenteritis), food poisoning, and side effects of a medication. […] The most common causes of chronic diarrhea (lasting more than 4 weeks) are irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, side effects of a medication, and malabsorption. […] Diarrhea that has been present for more than 4 weeks may be a lingering case of acute diarrhea or the early stage of a disorder that causes chronic diarrhea. […] Rapid passage (transit) of stool is a common cause of diarrhea.
- #44 Persistent Diarrhea and Malabsorption: Categories, Causes & Treatment | Nationwide Children’s Hospitalhttps://www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/persistent-diarrhea–malabsorption
„Toddler’s diarrhea,” one of the most common causes of persistent diarrhea, is caused by a diet low in fat and high in sugar and fluids (usually from fruit juices). […] Diarrhea lasting more than seven days can be caused by a number of different problems, including: Celiac disease (an allergy to protein in wheat, rye and barley), Enzyme deficiencies (like lactose intolerance), Toddler’s diarrhea, Infection (parasites such as Giardia, Cryptosporidium), Food allergy, Pancreatic disorders (like cystic fibrosis, pancreatic insufficiency), Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis), Too much laxative intake, After-infection (after an acute diarrhea episode, diarrhea may continue for weeks), Other medical conditions (such as overactive thyroid). […] Treatment is dependent on the underlying cause of the diarrhea or malabsorption, and may include medications or the avoidance of certain foods.
- #45 Diarrhea: Symptoms, Causes, Treatmenthttps://www.health.com/condition/diarrhea-overview
Diarrhea is loose, watery stools. One of the most common loose stool causes is a virus. […] One of the most common causes of acute diarrhea is a virus, known as „viral gastroenteritis.” The most likely culprit is norovirus, which circulates widely on cruise ships, in adults. Children typically develop diarrhea from a rotavirus infection. Bacteria and parasites might cause acute diarrhea. Those germs typically pass through food or water, often when you travel to other countries (i.e., traveler’s diarrhea). […] Intolerance to certain kinds of food can also cause diarrhea. Common food intolerances include lactose, a sugar found in milk and other dairy products; mannitol and sorbitol, which are artificial sweeteners often used in gum; and fructose, a sugar in fruits and honey. […] Diarrhea is a side effect of many medications, including antibiotics. Certain GI disorders, including celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and IBS, cause diarrhea. Less commonly, abdominal surgery, colon cancer or polyps, and radiation therapy can result in diarrhea.
- #46 Chronic Diarrhoea in Adults: Causes and Treatment | Doctorhttps://patient.info/doctor/chronic-diarrhoea-in-adults
Persistent diarrhoea suggests a non-infectious aetiology and therefore should be further investigated. […] Causes of chronic diarrhoea include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), bile acid malabsorption, diverticular disease, colonic neoplasia, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s colitis, microscopic colitis, ischaemic colitis, constipation with faecal impaction, coeliac disease, Crohn’s disease, other small bowel enteropathies, disaccharidase deficiency, lactose intolerance, small bowel bacterial overgrowth, mesenteric ischaemia, radiation enteritis, lymphoma, chronic infection, recent antibiotic therapy, previous surgery, drugs, food additives, alcohol, immunodeficiency, and factitious diarrhoea. […] Chronic diarrhoea may also occur in up to 10% of patients after cholecystectomy.
- #47https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/diarrhoeal-disease
Water contaminated with human faeces, for example from sewage, septic tanks and latrines, is of particular concern. Animal faeces also contain microorganisms that can cause diarrhoea. […] Diarrhoeal disease can also spread from person-to-person, aggravated by poor personal hygiene. Food is another major cause of diarrhoea when it is prepared or stored in unhygienic conditions. Unsafe domestic water storage and handling is also an important risk factor. Fish and seafood from polluted water may also contribute to the disease.
- #47https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/diarrhoeal-disease
Diarrhoea is usually a symptom of an infection in the intestinal tract, which can be caused by a variety of bacterial, viral and parasitic organisms. […] Diarrhoea is a symptom of infections caused by a host of bacterial, viral and parasitic organisms, most of which are spread by faeces-contaminated water. […] Among children under 5 years of age, the most common viral pathogens are rotavirus, norovirus, adenovirus and astrovirus. Bacterial pathogens include Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., and Campylobacter spp., while parasitic pathogens include Cryptosporidium, Giardia, and Entamoeba spp. […] Diarrhoea is a leading cause of malnutrition in children under 5 years old. […] Children who die from diarrhoea often suffer from underlying malnutrition, which makes them more vulnerable to diarrhoea. Each diarrhoeal episode, in turn, makes their malnutrition even worse.
- #48 Diarrhea: Causes and Risk Factorshttps://www.verywellhealth.com/diarrhea-causes-1324505
Stomach flu, also known as gastroenteritis, is caused by a virus, but not the same that causes seasonal flu (influenza). Examples of viruses that can cause stomach flu are rotavirus and norovirus. Gastroenteritis also can be caused by a bacterium or a parasite. […] Diarrhea that goes on for weeks or months may be caused by an infection, or it may be caused by an underlying medical condition or one of many other potential causes, some of which include the following: Celiac Disease, Food Allergy, Food Intolerance, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Medication. […] Some medications, in particular antibiotics and chemotherapy, can cause diarrhea, as well as laxatives containing magnesium. […] There are congenital diarrheal disorders linked to specific genes. These disorders usually come on in the first few months of a child’s life.
- #49 Diarrhea: Types, Causes, and Treatment | K Health Apphttps://khealth.com/learn/symptom/diarrhea/
Chronic diarrhea may be a symptom of a more serious or chronic condition such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Frequent and severe diarrhea could be a sign of these associated conditions: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Infection, Radiation therapy, Adverse reaction to a medication, Diabetes, Gluten insensitivity (celiac disease), Lactose intolerance or other food intolerance, Alcohol abuse, HIV or other immunodeficiency, Overgrowth in harmful colon bacteria due to recent antibiotic use (c. difficile colitis).
- #50 Diarrhea (0-12 Months)https://www.seattlechildrens.org/conditions/a-z/diarrhea-0-12-months/
Most diarrhea is caused by a virus. […] Bacterial infections as a cause of diarrhea are not common. […] Diarrhea is the body’s way of getting rid of the germs. […] The main risk of diarrhea is dehydration. Dehydration means the body has lost too much fluid. […] Most children with diarrhea don’t need to see their doctor. […] Viral diarrhea lasts 5-14 days. […] Severe diarrhea only occurs on the first 1 or 2 days. But, loose stools can last for 1 to 2 weeks.