What are Common Causes of Diarhea?

Diarrhea, a Gl tract disease that generally lasts only a few days, is defined as increased fluidity, frequency, or amount of bowel movements compared to a person's usual pattern. Most cases of diarrhea result from infections in the intestines, with bacteria and viruses the usual offending agents.

They produce substances that cause the intestinal cells to primarily secrete fluid rather than absorb fluid. Another form of diarrhea can be caused by consumption of substances that are not readily absorbed, such as the sugar alcohol sorbitol found in sugar-less gum. When consumed in large amounts, the unabsorbed substance draws much water into the in­testines, in turn leading to diarrhea. Treatment of diarrhea generally requires drinking lots of fluid during the affected stage; reduced intake of the poorly absorbed substance also is important if that is a cause. Prompt treatment within 24 to 48 hours is especially important for infants and older people, as they are more susceptible to the effects of dehydration associated with diarrhea. Diarrhea that lasts more than 7 days in adults should be investigated by a physician as it can be a symptom of more serious intestinal disease, especially if there is also blood in the stool.

Another common cause of diarrhea is another disease called acid reflux. Acid reflux is when the acid in the stomach goes into the throat and intestines causing discomfort. If you notice you have dark stool or even diarrhea, then it may be due to acid reflux. If acid reflux is your cause, then you should talk to your doctor. Some common treatments for acid reflux is lying on your side for a short period of time, eating binding foods such as bananas, staying away from spicy food or caffeine, and simply chewing your food more carefully. If you have a bad case of acid reflux then you may have a medication suggested to you but that is only for extreme cases.

Overall, typical medical disorders of the Gl tract arise from differences in anatomical features and lifestyle habits among individuals. Because of the importance of various nutrition and lifestyle habits, such as adequate dietary fiber and fluid intake, as well as not smoking or abusing NSAID medications, nutrition and lifestyle therapy is often effective in helping treat Gl tract disorders. A common cause for diarrhea is acid reflux which is completely treatable and nothing to worry about. There is no need for you to worry about diarrhea unless it persists over a long period of time, and if that is the case, then just talk to your doctor and you will get the proper treatment.