Chronic Diarrhea: How Long Does It Last?

Chronic diarrhea refers to loose or watery stools that persist for several weeks or longer. Generally, if diarrhea lasts for more than four weeks, or if it recurs with intervals of two to four weeks, it is classified as chronic. This condition affects the digestive tract and often results from impaired secretion, digestion, absorption, or motility in the gastrointestinal system.

There are multiple potential causes behind chronic diarrhea. It can be linked to systemic illnesses such as liver, gallbladder, or pancreatic diseases, as well as inflammatory bowel conditions like ulcerative colitis. In some cases, it may stem from food intolerances that a person is unaware of, leading to continued consumption of problematic foods. Symptoms commonly include frequent bowel movements, loose or unformed stools, and in more severe cases, the presence of blood, pus, or mucus in the stool.

If symptoms persist without improvement, medical attention is highly recommended. Individuals experiencing ongoing diarrhea should consider visiting a gastroenterologist to determine the underlying cause through proper diagnosis. Once identified, appropriate treatment can be administered to manage symptoms effectively and improve quality of life.