Chronic diarrhoea means having loose and watery stools that last for at least four weeks. You will also experience going to the toilet three or more times per day.

Potential Complications of Chronic Diarrhoea:

• Severe dehydration can occur and cause decreased urine volume, dark urine, fatigue/tiredness, lightheadedness and low blood pressure. If you become dehydrated, you may be given fluids via your vein (intravenous or IV) to replace the fluids and electrolytes (salts) lost during diarrhoea.
• Malnutrition can occur during chronic diarrhoea due to a lack of absorption of important nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, proteins and fats.

What Is the Outlook for Chronic Diarrhoea?

Chronic diarrhoea can have a significant impact on your quality of life and overall health. If you have mild symptoms, you may experience discomfort. However, if your symptoms are severe, these may suggest serious health problems.

If you have tried to change your lifestyle to improve your symptoms but to no success, please seek medical advice.

• Digestive disorders that occur in the digestive tract (e.g. irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic pancreatitis and coeliac disease).
• Endocrine disorders that cause hormone imbalance in your body (e.g. hyperthyroidism and diabetes).
• Infections can cause chronic diarrhoea in people who travel or live in tropical or developing countries. Intestinal infections can develop after your consume contaminated food or water.
• Lactose intolerant patients develop diarrhoea and gas when they consume lactose, which is mainly found in milk and dairy products.
• Medicines, herbs, and dietary supplements can cause diarrhoea as a side effect.