When gas and diarrhea are infrequent and short-lived, we can handle it. But when time and time again your stomach is transformed into a disaster zone by cramps and discomfort, you need to find the source of the problem. Read on to find out why you may be suffering from so much gas and diarrhea.
Confined to the bathroom again!
We all know the symptoms of gas and diarrhea. Naturally, you don’t rush to the nearest medical clinic the first time you break wind or the first time your stool is soft. But when these symptoms are acute and when they last more than a few days, you should address them by making an appointment with your doctor. Less intense but longer-lasting episodes are also reason enough for a consultation.
Multiple causes of gas and diarrhea
It isn’t easy to find out why you have so much gas and diarrhea, because they can be the results of many other problems.
Some of the causes might be:
- irritable bowel syndrome
- intestinal inflammatory disease
- lactose intolerance
- gluten sensitivity
- infections
- a recent course of antibiotics
- stress
What to do?
- In the case of acute diarrhea, which is often bacterial or viral in origin, it is important to hydrate well by drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water and other fluids a day. Very effective rehydration mixtures can also be purchased at the pharmacy. The symptoms should disappear after approximately three days.
- When the gas and the diarrhea are less intense but persist for more than a few weeks, it is then referred to as chronic diarrhea. If stress isn’t the obvious cause, then a food intolerance (from cauliflower, broccoli, legumes, etc.) will probably be the focal point of the investigation. It is, in fact, possible to perform this test yourself—eliminate all products containing lactose for a certain time, along with gluten and other potentially irritating foods. As you gradually add them back into your diet, you’ll be able to see if they are having a direct impact on your gastrointestinal system.
- If these home tests are inconclusive, a doctor will look into the other reasons why you have so much gas and diarrhea, including the possibility of an intestinal disorder.
The ultimate goal is for your gas and your diarrhea to become only very occasional annoyances!
