Diarrhea

Achieve relief from chronic or acute diarrhea with the help of our world-class GI specialists at Peak Gastroenterology Associates. Every team member is dedicated to helping you restore your health and offers compassionate, personalized care.

What Is Diarrhea?

Diarrhea is characterized by frequent, loose, or watery bowel movements. It is a common condition that affects people of all ages and typically lasts a few days. Chronic or persistent diarrhea, however, is a sign of a more serious underlying health issue.

What Causes Diarrhea?

Diarrhea can result from a variety of causes, including:

Infections: Infections may be caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, or contaminated food or water.
Food Intolerances and Allergies: These intolerances include lactose intolerance or sensitivity to artificial sweeteners.
Medications: Reactions to antibiotics or other drugs can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in your intestines.
Digestive Disorders: These disorders include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, or other disorders.
Functional Bowel Disorders: These cases occur due to the bowel not functioning correctly.

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What Are The Symptoms?

While diarrhea is itself a symptom, it may be accompanied by:

Abdominal cramps or pain
Bloating
Nausea or vomiting
Urgency to have a bowel movement
Fever
Dehydration, which can manifest as thirst, dry skin, and decreased urination

How Is Diarrhea Treated?

Treatment for diarrhea aims to relieve symptoms and address the underlying cause. Approaches may include:

Rehydration: Oral rehydration solutions or fluids to prevent dehydration.
Dietary Adjustments: Avoid foods that aggravate the condition, such as spicy or high-fat foods.
Medications: Over-the-counter anti-diarrheal agents or prescribed medications can treat specific causes like infections or inflammation.
Probiotics: To help restore a healthy balance of intestinal bacteria.

Why Choose Us?

Peak Gastroenterology Associates is your trusted partner in digestive health. Our GI doctors are well-versed in diagnosing and treating various conditions causing diarrhea. We have a patient-centered approach, ensuring you receive the most effective and appropriate treatment to alleviate your symptoms and address the underlying cause of diarrhea. Choose us for empathetic and supportive care delivered by GI specialists with exceptional qualifications.

We also offer far more than just state-of-the-art gastrointestinal care. At our practice, patients can receive a full spectrum of care in one location, delivered by our multi-specialty team of renowned physicians. We provide a level of comprehensive, personalized treatment that you won't find at most clinics.

Seeking Medical Care for Diarrhea? We Can Help.

Chronic loose stools or straining during bowel movements might be more than just a nuisance — it could be a sign of a serious gastrointestinal problem. The expert team of doctors at Peak Gastroenterology Associates can diagnose the cause of diarrhea to alleviate symptoms and restore your quality of life. Schedule an appointment with Peak Gastroenterology Associates by phone or online. Our clinics are in Denver, Colorado Springs, and Lone Tree.

Diarrhea FAQ

What is diarrhea?

Constipation and diarrhea are abnormal bowel patterns. Diarrhea is associated with loose, watery stools and can occur three or more times a day. Chronic diarrhea can cause nutrient deficiencies or dehydration.

What causes diarrhea?

Common causes of diarrhea may include:

Irritable bowel syndrome
Crohn’s disease
Ulcerative colitis
Other gastrointestinal diseases
Medicines
Parasites
Viruses
Bacteria
Food intolerances

If you have long-lasting diarrhea that doesn’t subside within a few days or comes and goes continuously, schedule an appointment with Peak Gastroenterology Associates for an evaluation, as it could be a sign of a serious gastrointestinal problem.

How is diarrhea diagnosed?

To diagnose diarrhea and its cause, your Peak Gastroenterology Associates provider reviews your symptoms and medical history. They complete a physical exam and may use blood tests, stool tests, imaging tests, or endoscopy to confirm a diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.

What is the treatment for diarrhea?

Depending on the cause of diarrhea, your gastroenterologist creates a personalized treatment plan for you. They might recommend:

Lifestyle Changes: If you have constipation, drink more water, eat more fruits and vegetables, get enough exercise, and practice additional healthy lifestyle habits for symptom relief. When you have diarrhea, drink lots of water and avoid triggers like dairy, fatty foods, and fried foods.
Medications or Supplements: Some medications contribute to diarrhea or constipation. If your doctor suspects a medicine is causing your symptoms, they might make medication changes or recommend laxatives to treat constipation. Probiotics can help shorten the duration of diarrhea.
Treating The Underlying Cause: If you have a chronic gastrointestinal disorder that contributes to diarrhea or constipation, such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis, your gastroenterologist develops a treatment plan that offers symptom relief and prevents complications.

Don’t live with chronic constipation or diarrhea, as these conditions are often unpleasant and may be a symptom of a more severe GI illness or condition. Schedule an appointment with Peak Gastroenterology Associates over the phone or online today for symptom relief.