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10 Common Causes of Acute Diarrhea

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ByAgkidzone Staff
Updated: Sep 6, 2024

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Acute diarrhea is characterized by the sudden onset of loose, watery stools that last fewer than 14 days. While it can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, it can also pose serious health risks, including dehydration and rapid weight loss. In extreme cases, severe diarrhea can lead to organ failure and even be life-threatening. Globally, about 2.5 million people die each year due to complications from diarrhea, primarily in developing countries. Staying well-hydrated during and after an episode of acute diarrhea is crucial, and taking a high-quality probiotic can help restore healthy gut bacteria. Let’s explore some common causes of acute diarrhea to better understand how to prevent and manage this condition.

Norovirus
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that is commonly spread through person-to-person contact, especially via the fecal-oral route. This can happen when someone eats contaminated food or touches their face after contact with an infected person. Occasionally, the virus can also be transmitted through airborne particles or contaminated surfaces. Norovirus is one of the leading causes of gastroenteritis, resulting in watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, weakness, and fatigue. The best way to prevent norovirus is through frequent and thorough handwashing.
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Contaminated Drinking Water
Drinking contaminated water is another frequent cause of acute diarrhea. This often occurs when individuals consume untreated water from sources like creeks, rivers, or lakes. One common waterborne parasite is giardia, which resides in the intestines and can cause severe diarrhea, painful cramps, and sometimes nausea and vomiting. While the body often clears the infection on its own, it’s essential to address dehydration that can follow. Drinking purified water and avoiding untreated water sources can help prevent such infections.
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Chewing Gum
Surprisingly, something as simple as chewing gum can trigger acute diarrhea. Many sugar-free gums contain sorbitol, an artificial sweetener that also acts as a laxative. While the amount of sorbitol in gum is usually low, frequent gum chewers might consume enough to experience a laxative effect. Cutting back on gum or choosing options without artificial sweeteners can help resolve this issue.
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Medications
Certain medications are known to cause acute diarrhea as a side effect. Antibiotics, for example, can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the gut, leading to diarrhea. Other drugs, such as those prescribed for acid reflux or heartburn, and some chemotherapy medications, may also cause this condition. If you experience diarrhea after starting a new medication, consult your doctor or pharmacist. They might suggest an alternative treatment or provide advice on managing this side effect.
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Stress and Anxiety
Stress and anxiety can wreak havoc on the digestive system, often leading to episodes of acute diarrhea. Major life events, such as job interviews or public speaking, can trigger a “nervous stomach,” causing loose stools or frequent trips to the bathroom. In these cases, managing stress through relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can help reduce the occurrence of stress-related diarrhea.
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Lactose
Lactose is a sugar found in dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt. While humans are born with enzymes that help digest lactose, these enzymes can diminish with age, leading to lactose intolerance. This condition can cause diarrhea, bloating, and stomach cramps after consuming dairy. People who are lactose intolerant can opt for lactose-free dairy products or take lactase supplements to help digest lactose more easily.
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Fructose
Fructose, the natural sugar found in many fruits, can be difficult for some people to digest. When the body struggles to break down fructose, it can lead to watery diarrhea, bloating, and intestinal cramps. Additionally, the high fiber content in fruit skins, such as those of apples, pears, and nectarines, can be a shock to the digestive system if consumed in large amounts by someone not accustomed to a high-fiber diet. Reducing fruit intake or using digestive enzymes can help alleviate diarrhea caused by fructose.
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Childbirth
Acute diarrhea can occur in women both shortly before and after childbirth. In some cases, diarrhea is a sign that labor is approaching, as the body naturally clears the bowels in preparation for delivery. Postpartum diarrhea might also occur due to hormonal changes or the body adjusting after months of mild constipation during pregnancy. This type of diarrhea usually resolves on its own without the need for medical treatment.
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Surgery
Acute diarrhea is a common side effect following abdominal or gastrointestinal surgery. The body needs time to adapt to changes in the digestive tract and to recover from any medications used during surgery. Conversely, some patients may experience constipation and require laxatives, which can lead to diarrhea as well. These bowel issues typically improve within a few days as the body heals.
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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
For those who experience frequent bouts of unexplained diarrhea, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) might be the underlying cause. IBS can present with severe diarrhea, sometimes alternating with constipation, along with intense intestinal cramping. While the exact cause of IBS remains unknown, certain foods and stressors can trigger symptoms. Managing IBS often involves avoiding trigger foods, stress management, and taking probiotics to maintain gut health.
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This site offers information designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on any information on this site as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or as a substitute for, professional counseling care, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional.

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