Understanding Long-Term Diarrhea: Causes and Risks

Persistent diarrhea is often underestimated, but if untreated, it can become serious or even fatal. Anyone—child, adult, or senior—can experience diarrhea if they consume unsafe water or improper food preparation.

Typically, diarrhea is linked to waterborne illnesses. Contaminated water containing germs and impurities, if not properly purified, increases the risk of diarrhea at any age.

Several factors can cause chronic diarrhea, with contaminated water being the leading cause. Modern filtration techniques greatly improve water safety, though boiling water remains the most effective way to eliminate harmful microbes.

While diarrhea is common, its severity varies. If symptoms persist for more than 2–3 weeks with loose, watery stools, medical attention is essential. Self-medication is often ineffective in chronic cases.

Chronic diarrhea may stem from underlying gastrointestinal issues requiring proper diagnosis and treatment.

What are common causes of long-term diarrhea?

Various factors, from daily habits to medical conditions, can lead to prolonged diarrhea. Here are key causes:

Medications: Certain drugs like magnesium-containing antacids, laxatives, digitalis, diuretics, and some antibiotics can trigger diarrhea, especially in sensitive individuals. Chemotherapy drugs, cholesterol-lowering medications, and prescriptions for thyroid or mental health conditions may also cause digestive disruptions.

Infections: Viral and bacterial infections, often acquired from contaminated water or food, are common causes. Viruses such as norovirus, hepatitis, cytomegalovirus, and rotavirus in children frequently lead to chronic diarrhea.

Toxins, caffeine, and alcohol: Exposure to pesticides, arsenic in contaminated water, or substances like psychedelic mushrooms can induce diarrhea. Sensitivity to caffeine and alcohol also contributes to persistent digestive issues.

Lactose, fructose, and artificial sweeteners intolerance: Difficulty digesting dairy, certain sugars, or artificial sweeteners can cause ongoing diarrhea without obvious symptoms.

Hormonal imbalances: Conditions like hypothyroidism, diabetes-related syndromes, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, and adrenal disorders may result in chronic diarrhea.

Surgical interventions: Removal of parts of the small intestine or gallbladder can impair digestion, leading to prolonged diarrhea.

Intestinal diseases: Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, ulcers, microscopic colitis, or ischemic bowel disease often cause persistent stool irregularities and bleeding.

Tumors and cancer treatments: Certain tumors, including carcinoids or pheochromocytomas, may induce diarrhea as a symptom.

Symptoms indicating chronic diarrhea include:

Watery, loose stools

Lower abdominal cramps or pain

Fever without cold or cough

Frequent urge to defecate, sometimes with blood

Abdominal bloating

Urgent bowel movements

Nausea

Long-lasting diarrhea can cause dehydration and other health issues, but early intervention and lifestyle adjustments help manage it. Medical professionals may prescribe antibiotics, IV fluids, or alter medications to treat underlying causes effectively.