Diarrhea And Stomach Pain: What Conditions Can Cause It

Experiencing diarrhea and stomach pain is a common issue that many people face at some point in their lives. These symptoms can be caused by a variety of conditions, and understanding the type of diarrhea you're experiencing can help identify the underlying cause.

1. Motility-Related Diarrhea

If your stool test shows no red or white blood cells and there are no visible undigested foods, it could be motility-related diarrhea. This type is often associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), increased gastrointestinal motility, or intestinal spasms. It's one of the most common causes of functional diarrhea.

2. Inflammatory Or Exudative Diarrhea

This form of diarrhea is typically caused by infections, inflammation, or autoimmune disorders affecting the intestines. In such cases, the stool may contain high levels of red and white blood cells due to infection or non-infectious inflammation attacking the digestive tract. The result is often painful cramping and frequent, urgent bowel movements.

3. Digestive Malabsorption Or Maldigestion

When diarrhea is paired with foul-smelling gas and stools containing undigested food particles, it may indicate a digestive issue like maldigestion. While abdominal pain tends to be mild, the discomfort from bloating and irregular bowel habits can be significant.

It's important to remember that diarrhea and stomach pain are not diseases themselves but signs of something more complex happening within your body. There are dozens of potential causes, ranging from dietary changes to chronic illnesses. If these symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical advice promptly is highly recommended for accurate diagnosis and treatment.