Why You Should Address Unexplained Diarrhea

Common gastrointestinal complaints are a leading reason for doctor visits. Diarrhea can be uncomfortable and inconvenient whether you are trying to get back to your daily routine or trying to enjoy an active life in Colorado Springs. 

The purpose of these frequently asked questions is to provide helpful information to those seeking answers about their digestive symptoms. 

Diarrhea is generally a temporary problem that goes away on its own without treatment. If it does not resolve, or if it is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, then you should seek medical evaluation.

Resource: my.clevelandclinic.org

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

What Does “Unexplained” Diarrhea Mean?

The term “diarrhea” is often defined as passing loose or watery stools three or more times per day. Sometimes, people experience urgency to defecate or the feeling of having had an incomplete bowel movement. Another way to describe diarrhea is a change in the frequency of bowel movements. 

Normal bowel movement frequency varies from person to person and can be influenced by factors such as diet and fiber intake. Some people only need to have a bowel movement once every other day or even less. If there is a sudden change in how often you pass stool, this could be considered diarrhea. 

The term “acute” means short-term, whereas “chronic” means long-term. Acute diarrhea usually resolves within 1 to 2 days, whereas chronic diarrhea lasts longer than 4  weeks. 

The word “unexplained” implies that you are having this symptom, but don’t know the reason. This could be because there is no obvious cause, such as eating something bad or getting sick recently. Many different things can cause diarrhea.

Resource: niddk.nih.gov

When to See a Doctor for Diarrhea in Colorado Springs

Most cases of diarrhea will resolve without treatment. However, there are certain situations where medical care is needed right away. Seek medical attention immediately if you have any of the following:

• Blood in your stool
• Black stools
• High fever
• Severe abdominal pain
• Dehydration (dry mouth, decreased urination, lightheadedness)
• Unexplained weight loss

If your diarrhea lasts more than two days, you should contact a healthcare provider.  Children, older adults, and people with certain medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, heart failure) are more likely to become dehydrated and should be seen sooner. 

Colorado Springs is located at a high elevation (6,000 feet above sea level). When you live at high elevations, you lose water from your body at a faster rate than when you live at lower elevations. 

If you have any acute onset of symptoms, such as severe cramping or vomiting, you should go to the nearest emergency room. People with mild to moderate symptoms should see a primary care physician or a specialist (gastroenterologist).

What Could Be Causing My Unexplained Diarrhea?

Diarrhea can be caused by many different things. Here are some common causes:

Viral and Bacterial Infections: People who camp, hike, or travel to certain areas of the world may become infected with bacteria, viruses, or parasites that cause diarrhea.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): IBS is a condition that affects the large intestine. It can cause symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea.

Lactose intolerance: Lactose is a type of sugar found in milk and dairy products. If your body doesn’t produce enough lactase, you can experience diarrhea after consuming dairy products.

Food Allergies: A food allergy occurs when your immune system reacts to a particular food. Symptoms can include hives, swelling, stomach pain, and diarrhea.

Medication Side Effects: Some medications, such as antibiotics, can cause diarrhea. Certain cancer treatments can also cause diarrhea.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are examples of inflammatory bowel diseases. These conditions can cause inflammation in the intestines, which leads to diarrhea.

Celiac Disease: Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when you eat gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley, and oats may be contaminated with gluten unless processed to be gluten-free.

Malabsorption: The digestive tract may not absorb nutrients correctly. This can lead to diarrhea and other symptoms.

There are many other less common causes of diarrhea. For example, it can be caused by cancer or radiation therapy. Identifying the cause of your diarrhea is important so that you can get the right treatment. Your doctor can perform tests to find out the cause of your symptoms.

What Are the Risks of Untreated Chronic Diarrhea?

If not properly managed, chronic diarrhea can have serious effects on your health and well-being. Dehydration and electrolyte depletion are two of the most common concerns and are of particular importance to us here at high elevation since our bodies dehydrate more quickly. In addition, chronic diarrhea can lead to malnutrition and weight loss as you aren’t absorbing the nutrients you need. 

This doesn’t end with your physical health, either. Chronic diarrhea can impact your life beyond the bathroom. It can affect your ability to get adequate rest, perform at work, and maintain healthy relationships with friends and family. 

If you have an underlying condition that is causing your diarrhea, delaying evaluation may mean missing an early window of treatment. Many conditions can be successfully managed when caught early enough.

Resource: who.int

How Is Unexplained Diarrhea Evaluated?

During your first visit with your doctor, we will review your medical history and discuss your symptoms. How long have you been experiencing diarrhea? What seems to make it better or worse? Do you notice any patterns? 

From there, we may order a stool test to rule out infection or inflammation, or blood tests to evaluate for celiac disease, thyroid disease, or vitamin or mineral deficiencies. We may also order imaging studies or a colonoscopy. 

We will use your first visit as an opportunity to learn about your symptoms, answer any questions you might have, and walk through each step of the evaluation process. To help expedite diagnosis, keep a record of your symptoms, food intake, and potential triggers.

What Are My Treatment Options in Colorado Springs?

Treatment for unexplained diarrhea is based entirely on its root cause, which is why establishing an accurate diagnosis is essential. In many cases, we will begin with conservative measures, including drinking plenty of fluids and modifying your diet to avoid certain food triggers. We may also prescribe medications or recommend over-the-counter treatments depending on your situation. 

If your diarrhea is due to IBS or a chronic inflammatory condition, we will create a personalized treatment plan designed to minimize your symptoms and improve your quality of life. 

We will schedule regular follow-ups to optimize your treatment plan and monitor your progress over time. At Associates in Gastroenterology, PC, we believe every patient should receive a treatment plan that fits their unique needs.

How Do I Choose the Right Gastroenterologist in Colorado Springs?

It’s important to find the right gastroenterologist for your specific needs. Choose a provider with extensive experience diagnosing and treating a range of gastrointestinal diseases. When you schedule an appointment, you may want to ask the provider about their primary areas of focus, what to expect during your visit, and how soon you can be seen. 

Other questions worth asking include whether they accept your insurance, how close the office is to your home or place of employment, and what other specialties the doctors in the practice offer. 

Developing a long-term relationship with a trusted healthcare provider in your community means that should you develop gastrointestinal issues in the future, you’ll have a familiar face you can turn to for treatment. Don’t wait until things get worse before coming in. The sooner you get the care you need, the better your chances for a positive outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Stress Cause Diarrhea?

Yes. Stress and anxiety can trigger your body’s fight-or-flight response, which can speed up your digestive system or cause it to malfunction altogether. This may lead to diarrhea and other gastrointestinal problems. If you’re experiencing stress-related diarrhea, you should still visit your healthcare provider to rule out other causes.

Does Diarrhea Occur More Frequently at Higher Altitudes?

Not directly, but the drier air in our climate can make your body lose water faster. You’ll get dehydrated quicker. In addition, outdoor activities increase the risk of exposure to untreated water, which can contain organisms that cause diarrhea.

How Can I Stay Hydrated When I Have Diarrhea?

Stay hydrated, particularly here in Colorado. Sip on fluids all day. Be sure to take in an oral rehydration solution or electrolyte drink to replace lost salts and minerals. Pale yellow urine is a sign you’re adequately hydrated. If you can’t keep fluids down or show signs of dehydration, get immediate medical attention.

What Warning Signs Indicate Diarrhea Is an Emergency?

Go to the ER or seek urgent care if you experience any of the following warning signs:

• Large amounts of blood in your stool
• High fever
• Severe stomach pain
• Signs of severe dehydration
• Confusion or fainting
• Inability to keep anything down

Could Certain Foods Cause Diarrhea, and Will Avoiding Them Help?

If your diarrhea is caused by a food intolerance, artificial sweetener, or similar substance, then yes. However, if your diarrhea is due to an infection, inflammation, or another medical condition, diet changes won’t solve the problem. If your diarrhea doesn’t improve after you change your diet, you should see a gastroenterologist.

Final Thoughts

Getting prompt treatment for unexplained diarrhea helps restore your quality of life and avoid complications like dehydration and malabsorption, but it also generally leads to easier and more successful treatment. 

Persistent or alarming symptoms should never be dismissed, particularly in our unique high-altitude setting. 

Here in Colorado Springs, you have access to excellent care from highly trained doctors. If you have persistent or alarming symptoms, please contact us at Associates in Gastroenterology, PC to schedule an appointment with our experienced doctors.