Why Do I Seem to Have Constant Diarrhea?

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Why Do I Seem to Have Constant Diarrhea?
by Laura Thompson
Oct. 26, 2021

I’ve always had a sensitive stomach. As a child, I often had to stay home from school due to various tummy troubles. As I grew older, I noticed that my stomach would react instantly to stress. I would experience diarrhea before performing in school plays or during my intense fear of flying.

While that felt somewhat normal, things escalated dramatically after I became a mother. Whether it was hormonal changes, aging, stress, or sleep deprivation (most likely a combination), I found myself dealing with frequent diarrhea. Any hint of stress would send me rushing to the restroom, and mornings filled with exhaustion meant constant trips to the toilet. Even menstrual cycles made matters worse. Certain foods would trigger my gut, leading to uncontrollable situations—foods like beans, onions, and excessive fruit.

Eventually, I realized I needed to seek medical assistance, as my symptoms became unmanageable. I dreaded being away from home for extended periods, fearing I wouldn’t be near a restroom when I needed one. Along with frequent bowel movements, I was also suffering from intense abdominal pain—pain that surpassed what I experienced during childbirth.

After consultations with my primary care physician, a chiropractor, and a gastroenterologist, I was diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). While this diagnosis eliminated the possibility of more severe conditions, it didn’t come with many treatment options. I was advised to relax (obviously easier said than done) and make some dietary adjustments, but specifics were lacking.

Finally, I found a dietitian who specialized in IBS and other gut-related issues. Through food journaling and elimination diets, we identified my dietary triggers, which included dairy—common for those with chronic diarrhea. Additionally, following a low FODMAP diet significantly improved my symptoms. I learned that high amounts of beans, onions, and certain fruits were detrimental to my gut health.

However, it wasn’t just the foods; I also needed to manage my anxiety—especially concerning my gut issues—before achieving real control. I returned to therapy and began meditating daily, both of which proved beneficial.

Years later, I maintain a dairy-free, low FODMAP diet while prioritizing my mental health. My gut isn’t perfect, and anxiety can still trigger problems, but I now understand my triggers and how to restore balance.

I’ve openly discussed my digestive struggles, and I often receive messages from others wondering why they experience similar issues. Although I’m not a medical professional, I’ve learned valuable lessons regarding digestion, mental health, and nutrition throughout my journey.

Here are my suggestions as someone who has navigated the challenges of IBS and a sensitive gut:

1. Get a Proper Diagnosis:
   While it’s tempting to self-diagnose with IBS or a nervous stomach, obtaining a proper diagnosis is crucial, especially if symptoms persist and affect your daily life. Conditions such as food allergies, celiac disease, or other gut disorders like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease also need to be ruled out.
2. Multiple Causes:
   Chronic diarrhea can stem from various factors, including dietary issues, lifestyle, stress, hormones, medications, and substance use. It’s easy to focus solely on diet, but a holistic approach often yields better results.
3. Mind-Gut Connection:
   It’s essential to recognize the connection between your mind and gut. Stress can trigger gut responses, so incorporating meditation, therapy, or anti-anxiety medications can be helpful for emotional and physical stability.
4. Seek Multiple Opinions:
   Healthcare providers may not always specialize in gut health. Consult a gastroenterologist who understands IBS and a holistic approach. Also, consider a nutritionist and a mental health specialist who focuses on digestive issues.
5. Don’t Give Up:
   This might sound cliché, but persistence is key. Many individuals with chronic diarrhea resign themselves to this reality, often out of embarrassment or feeling overwhelmed. A life dominated by frequent restroom visits is not the norm. You deserve to feel balanced and healthy.

If you want to explore more about this topic, check out this previous post on our blog, as well as this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination. For further insights on mental health aspects, this site specializes in related topics.

Summary:

Dealing with chronic diarrhea can be challenging and frustrating, but understanding its causes and seeking proper diagnosis and support can lead to significant improvement. It’s essential to consider both dietary triggers and the mind-gut connection while advocating for your health.