Constipation & Diarrhea

What are constipation and diarrhea?

Constipation and diarrhea are abnormal bowel movements. Constipation occurs when you have fewer than three bowel movements in a week. 

It results in dry, hard stools or painful bowel movements. In some instances, people with constipation can develop complications like hemorrhoids, fecal impaction, and torn anal tissue.

Diarrhea, on the other hand, is associated with loose, watery stools and can occur three or more times a day. Some individuals with chronic diarrhea experience nutrient deficiencies or dehydration. 

What causes constipation and diarrhea?

Possible causes of constipation or diarrhea may include:

Constipation

• Certain dietary habits
• Colon or rectum blockages
• Dehydration
• Eating disorders
• Hormone fluctuations
• Neurological problems
• Some medicines

Diarrhea

• Bacteria
• Crohn's disease
• Food intolerances
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Medicines
• Other gastrointestinal diseases
• Parasites
• Ulcerative colitis
• Viruses

If you have persistent constipation or diarrhea that doesn't subside within a few days or continuously comes and goes, schedule an appointment with Gastrocare of Southwest Ohio LLC for an evaluation, as it could be a sign of a serious gastrointestinal issue.

How are constipation and diarrhea diagnosed?

To diagnose constipation or diarrhea, Dr. Bearelly reviews your symptoms and medical history. 

He completes a physical exam and may use blood tests, stool tests, imaging tests, or endoscopy to confirm a diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan.

What is the treatment for constipation and diarrhea?

Depending on the cause of constipation or diarrhea, Dr. Bearelly creates a personalized treatment plan just for you. He may recommend:

Lifestyle changes

If you have constipation, he may suggest drinking more water, eating more fruits and vegetables, getting more exercise, and practicing additional healthy lifestyle habits that might offer symptom relief. When you have diarrhea, he may recommend drinking a lot of water and avoiding dietary triggers like dairy, fatty foods, and fried foods.

Medications or supplements

Some medications can contribute to diarrhea or constipation. If Dr. Bearelly suspects a medication is responsible for your symptoms, he might make changes to your prescription or recommend laxatives to address constipation. Probiotics can help shorten the duration of diarrhea.

Treating the underlying cause

If you have a chronic gastrointestinal disorder that causes diarrhea or constipation, such as celiac disease, Crohn's disease, or ulcerative colitis, Dr. Bearelly can develop a treatment plan that offers symptom relief and limits your risk of complications.

Don't live with chronic constipation or diarrhea, as these conditions are often unpleasant and may be associated with a GI problem. Schedule an appointment with Gastrocare of Southwest Ohio LLC, or request an appointment online today.