Chronic Diarrhea - Diagnosis & Treatment

How is chronic diarrhea diagnosed?

Diagnosis may be difficult and requires that your health care provider take a careful history and perform a physical exam. The types of tests that your health care provider orders will be based on your symptoms and history. Tests may include blood or stool tests; stool cultures may be used to test for bacteria. To detect parasites, CDC recommends that three or more stool samples be examined. Special stains may be required to look for some parasites. If these initial tests do not reveal the cause of your diarrhea, additional tests may include radiographs (x-rays) and endoscopy. Endoscopy is a procedure in which a tube is inserted into the mouth or rectum so that the doctor, usually a gastroenterologist, can look at the intestine from the inside.

How is chronic diarrhea treated?

The key to treating chronic diarrhea is to determine its cause.

• Diarrhea caused by an infection can often be treated with antibiotics. However, the correct diagnosis must be made so the proper medication can be prescribed.
• Diarrhea not caused by an infection is more difficult to diagnose and treat. Long-term medication or surgery may be required. Specific treatment for chronic diarrhea not caused by an infection should be discussed with your health care provider.

For diarrhea whose cause has not been determined, follow these important treatment guidelines to relieve symptoms:

• Prevent dehydration. Serious health problems can occur if you don't maintain your body's proper fluid levels. Diarrhea may become worse and hospitalization may be required if dehydration occurs. Many oral rehydration solutions are available at drug stores. Ask your pharmacist or health care provider for the product best for you.
• Do not drink beverages containing caffeine, such as tea, coffee, and soft drinks.
• Do not drink alcohol; it causes dehydration.
• Do not rely on sports drinks and broths alone to maintain adequate fluid balance. They should not be used to prevent SEVERE deydration.
• Maintain well-balanced nutrition. Doing so may help you recover more quickly.