Chronic or recurrent diarrhea is more than inconvenient—it can signal an underlying condition that requires expert evaluation. At GastroCare LI, we provide thorough assessments to identify the cause of your symptoms and recommend effective treatment options tailored to your health needs.
Diarrhea can be caused by infections, food intolerances, medications, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or chronic conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Our team conducts detailed lab testing, stool analysis, and endoscopic evaluations to determine the root cause and eliminate guesswork.
Treatment depends on the diagnosis but may involve antibiotics, dietary changes, probiotics, or targeted medication. We also offer ongoing support to help patients with chronic diarrhea regain comfort and control in their lives.
Frequent diarrhea can lead to dehydration, fatigue, and nutrient loss. Don’t let it go untreated. Our team at GastroCare LI offers the compassionate care and expertise you need to recover fully and confidently.
If diarrhea is disrupting your daily routine, contact GastroCare LI in Valley Stream today at (516) 825-8484 to book a professional evaluation.
What is diarrhea?
Diarrhea is loose and watery stools. When you have diarrhea, it’s common to experience other symptoms, such as:
- Abdominal cramping and pain
- Powerful sudden urges to pass stool
- Nausea
- Fever
- Bloody stool
- Mucus in stool
- Abdominal bloating
Bouts with diarrhea can be intense and difficult to cope with, so you may feel like you can never be too far from the bathroom when you’re living with this frustrating issue.
When is diarrhea a sign of a serious issue?
Nearly everyone experiences diarrhea at some time in their lives. For example, it’s a common symptom of the flu or stomach bugs. When it’s part of an acute illness, like the flu, the diarrhea is generally intense for a few days and then lessens as you recover.
However, if your diarrhea continues for weeks or even longer, it could be a sign of a serious health problem and might require medical intervention. If you have diarrhea for weeks with no sign of improvement, it’s time to reach out to GastroCare LI for help.
What causes chronic diarrhea?
Chronic diarrhea may be a feature of many gastrointestinal (GI) diseases and conditions, including:
- Crohn’s disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Celiac disease
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
- Lactose intolerance
Chronic diarrhea may also occur for other reasons. For example, people who have gallbladder removal surgery may have diarrhea for anywhere from days to years after their procedure.
How is chronic diarrhea treated?
Chronic diarrhea treatment focuses on diagnosing and addressing the underlying condition. So, you’ll usually have stool, breath, or SIBO testing and may also need a diagnostic procedure like colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy.
Based on your condition, you may need medications like antidiarrheal drugs, antibiotics, or biologics. In addition, it’s essential that you drink plenty of water when you have diarrhea. That replenishes the fluids you’ve lost due to frequent diarrhea and helps to prevent dangerous dehydration.
You don’t need to live with frequent diarrhea any longer. The GastroCare LI physicians understand the frustration and embarrassment you’re experiencing with frequent diarrhea, and they’re ready to provide treatments that work. Call the office or click on the online booking tool to make your appointment today.