A Common Digestive Concern That May Signal Something More
While diarrhea is typically a short-lived issue, recurring or chronic diarrhea can be a sign of a more serious gastrointestinal disorder. At GI Consultants, our board-certified specialists take a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and care—helping you find relief, stay hydrated, and rule out underlying conditions.
Why Patients Trust Us for Chronic Diarrhea Evaluation
Many people experience occasional diarrhea, but when symptoms become chronic or disruptive, our team is here to help with timely care and trusted expertise.
Comprehensive GI Expertise
We care for conditions that cause acute and chronic diarrhea, including food sensitivities, IBD, IBS, infections, and more.
Convenient, On-Site Diagnostics
We streamline your care by offering lab testing, imaging, endoscopy, and colonoscopy in one facility.
Tailored Treatment for Lasting Relief
Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, we tailor treatment to your condition, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
Ongoing Monitoring When Needed
For chronic or complex cases, we continue to monitor and adjust your care to keep you healthy and comfortable.
Understanding When a Common Issue Becomes a Cause for Concern
Diarrhea is defined as the passage of loose, watery stools more frequently than normal. Most cases are short-lived, but chronic or recurrent diarrhea can be a sign of a more serious health issue.
There are three types of diarrhea:
- Osmotic Diarrhea – Caused by substances that draw water into the intestines (often from sugar substitutes or malabsorption).
- Secretory Diarrhea – Occurs when the body actively releases water into the bowel, often triggered by infection or certain medications.
- Exudative Diarrhea – Involves the presence of blood or pus in the stool, common with conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
What Causes Diarrhea?
Many factors can trigger diarrhea. Common causes include:
- Bacterial or viral infection (e.g., intestinal flu)
- Foodborne illness or allergies
- Side effects of medications or antibiotics
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn's or ulcerative colitis)
- Hyperthyroidism
- Malabsorption disorders (e.g., celiac disease, lactose intolerance)
- Radiation therapy
- Colon or rectal cancer
- Overuse of laxatives or alcohol
- Diabetes
Getting to the Root Cause of Frequent or Chronic Symptoms
To identify the cause of diarrhea, we offer several tools and in-office evaluations:
Stool Studies & Cultures
To detect infection, inflammation, or malabsorption.
Colonoscopy or Sigmoidoscopy
Used to assess for IBD, cancer, or structural issues.
Blood Tests
To evaluate thyroid function, anemia, celiac disease, or inflammatory markers.
Food Sensitivity Testing & Elimination Diets
Used when allergy or intolerance is suspected
