Nobody likes to experience diarrhea. Whether it comes from viral stomach nausea or a bad case of food poisoning, you know it when you have it. But if you weren’t recently sick, or you are feeling no other symptoms, then you may be wondering what could possibly be causing you to have a bad time in the bathroom. Let’s look at some of the top unusual causes of diarrhea.
Top Unusual Causes of Diarrhea
Some of the top unusual causes of diarrhea are also the most common causes. Whether or not you know it, some of your daily habits, such as drinking and taking prescription medications, could be contributing to your consistent bout of diarrhea. Below, your hepatology specialist in Los Angeles will talk about some unusual diarrhea causes and how to avoid them.
Exercise
Dr. Tabib explains that intense exercise can lead to abdominal cramping and sometimes loose, bloody stool. It’s not something to be concerned about when it happens during an event like a race or marathon. But if you get diarrhea every time you exercise, there may be something wrong. Talk to your doctor if you find yourself frequently having to stop for a restroom break while working out.
Booze
Have you ever had a bad experience in the bathroom after drinking a lot? And no, not a hangover. Diarrhea after too much malt or booze may seem bizarre, but it is an uncommon source of diarrhea.
Dr. Tabib states that the high carbohydrate content of these drinks can ferment in the bowel and cause gassy or liquidy bowel movements for a day or two. Additionally, alcohol can stimulate the G.I. tract prematurely. Make sure to drink plenty of water the following day to replenish fluids and prevent dehydration fast.
Giardia Parasite
Like most of our gastrointestinal patients, you might have a little bit of diarrhea for several weeks or even months, and you don’t know what is causing it. Giardia, a common intestinal parasite in North America, is often found in freshwater that is unclean. This can cause a lot of problems in your intestinal tract if you don’t get it removed after too long. You may have picked up or drunk some unpurified water while hiking, swimming in fresh-water lakes, or simply drinking unfiltered water.
A sign that your symptoms may be caused by a parasite is a foul-smelling stool, similar to eggs or rot. Consult your doctor immediately. For Giardia parasite testing, visit your M.D. It is possible to clear it right up with antibiotics, BUT…
Antibiotics
Sometimes, an antibiotic could also be the culprit. Depending on the type, antibiotics can alter the bacteria in your intestines, which can lead to an imbalance of good bacteria and bad bacteria in your body. This can affect the way your body processes most foods.
Ask your doctor if you have diarrhea after taking a bout of antibiotics. To combat some of these symptoms, most probiotics and yogurt can be taken with antibiotics to help maintain a healthy balance.
Sorbitol
This artificial sweetener can be located in products labeled as “sugar-free,” such as hard candy and chewing gum. Some sports drinks and juices have sorbitol as well. Too much of this bad ingredient can cause diarrhea without other nutrients to balance it out. Keep reading to find out what the doctor recommends.
Keep Your Intestines in Good Health ASAP!
Going to the bathroom is a necessary part of everyday life, but it shouldn’t be a miserable experience. If you are having trouble with diarrhea and other digestion troubles, you should schedule a visit with your diarrhea specialist in LA right away. Dr. Tabib can help you form a custom treatment plan to make sure your digestive tract is on the path to better health. Get in touch with us today!
