Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments

Diarrhea is a condition in which a person passes at least three loose or watery stools in a 24-hour period. It is most often caused by infections in the intestines. Diarrhea can be short-term (acute), lasting less than a week, or long-term (chronic), lasting a month or more. It is a significant global health issue and causes about 1.6 million deaths every year, especially among children under five in low- and middle-income countries.

Most infections that lead to diarrhea come from viruses (such as rotavirus and norovirus), bacteria (such as E. coli, Vibrio cholerae, Shigella, and Salmonella), and parasites (such as Giardia and Entamoeba histolytica). These germs typically spread through contaminated food or water, poor sanitation, poor handwashing practices, or close contact with an infected person. Other non-infectious causes include reactions to medications especially antibiotics, which can upset the normal balance of bacteria in the gut, as well as long-term digestive conditions such as Celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease.

Common symptoms include stomach cramps or pain, nausea, vomiting, and dehydration. Dehydration, loss of too much body fluid, can cause headache, dry skin, dark or reduced urine, dizziness, and irritability. It is the main cause of serious illness and death related to diarrhea, particularly in young children and older adults.

Treatment mainly focuses on replacing lost fluids and minerals (electrolytes). Oral rehydration solution (ORS), a mixture of clean water, sugar, and salts, is widely used and has greatly reduced deaths from diarrhea. Zinc supplements are also recommended for children because they can reduce how long the illness lasts. In some cases, antidiarrheal medicines like loperamide or bismuth subsalicylate may be used, while antibiotics are given only for severe or confirmed bacterial infections, such as cholera or traveler’s diarrhea, and are chosen based on the likely cause.

Self-care includes resting, staying hydrated, and slowly returning to bland foods like rice, bananas, or toast. People are advised to avoid caffeine, alcohol, fatty foods, and artificial sweeteners, which can worsen symptoms. Medical care should be sought if diarrhea lasts several days or is accompanied by high fever, blood in the stool, severe dehydration, persistent vomiting, or strong abdominal or rectal pain, as these may signal a more serious condition.

Types of Diarrhea

Diarrhea is commonly classified into osmotic, secretory, inflammatory, and motility types.

Osmotic Diarrhea

Osmotic diarrhea occurs when substances in the intestine cannot be properly absorbed and instead draw water into the gut from surrounding tissues. This excess water leads to loose or watery stools. It is commonly seen in people who have difficulty digesting certain sugars (such as lactose intolerance) or in those who consume artificial sweeteners like sorbitol or mannitol, which are poorly absorbed. A helpful distinguishing feature is that osmotic diarrhea often improves or stops when the person avoids the food or substance responsible.

Secretory Diarrhea

Secretory diarrhea happens when the cells that line the intestine actively secrete more water and electrolytes than normal. This type often results from bacterial or viral infections that release toxins, such as Vibrio cholerae (the cause of cholera) or certain strains of E. coli. It can also occur due to hormonal disorders or some medications. Unlike osmotic diarrhea, secretory diarrhea typically persists even when fasting because the fluid loss is driven by secretion, not by undigested substances in the intestine.

Inflammatory Diarrhea

Inflammatory diarrhea is caused by injury or irritation of the intestinal lining, which occurs when the gut becomes inflamed. This inflammation may result from infections (for example, Shigella, Salmonella, or Campylobacter) or from chronic inflammatory conditions such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Because the lining of the intestine is damaged, blood and pus may mix with the stools, and affected individuals often experience abdominal pain and fever.

Motility (or Functional) Diarrhea

Motility diarrhea occurs when food moves through the intestines too quickly, reducing the time available for water and nutrients to be absorbed. This rapid transit can be seen in conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or hyperthyroidism, and it may also develop after intestinal surgery. The stools are loose because the digestive system does not have enough opportunity to reabsorb fluids before waste is excreted. In some cases, stress, anxiety, or autonomic nervous system imbalance can also contribute to this pattern of diarrhea.

Acute vs. Chronic Diarrhea

Acute diarrhea lasts less than two weeks and is usually caused by infections like viruses, bacteria, or parasites. It often resolves with hydration and supportive care.

Chronic diarrhea persists for more than four weeks and may result from conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, malabsorption syndromes, or inflammatory bowel disease. Chronic cases require medical evaluation to identify underlying causes and appropriate management.

Common Causes of Diarrhea

Diarrhea results from various triggers that disrupt normal digestion or absorption. Identifying specific causes can guide effective treatment and prevention strategies.

1. Infections

Infectious diarrhea is the leading cause of illness in both developed and developing countries and is particularly widespread in areas with poor sanitation or limited access to clean water. Infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, each affecting the intestinal lining in different ways.

Bacterial infections such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), Salmonella, Shigella, and Campylobacter can lead to acute diarrhea. Some bacteria produce toxins that stimulate the intestine to secrete large amounts of fluid, while others invade and damage intestinal cells, causing inflammation and bloody stools. Cholera, caused by Vibrio cholerae, is a notable bacterial infection leading to severe secretory diarrhea and rapid dehydration.
Viral infections are especially common in young children and older adults. Rotavirus is a leading cause of childhood diarrhea globally and can spread rapidly among infants and toddlers. Norovirus outbreaks often occur in crowded environments like schools, cruise ships, hospitals, or nursing homes. These viruses damage the intestinal lining, reducing its ability to absorb fluids and nutrients.
Parasitic infections such as Giardia lamblia and Entamoeba histolytica often cause prolonged or recurrent diarrhea. Parasites can interfere with nutrient absorption by adhering to the intestinal wall or destroying tissue. These infections are frequently linked to contaminated water sources and are common in areas with inadequate water treatment.

Transmission of infectious diarrhea typically occurs through the fecal-oral route, meaning pathogens are ingested from contaminated food, dirty hands, or unsafe drinking water. Travelers visiting regions with poor sanitation, often referred to as “traveler’s diarrhea”, are also at higher risk.

Food Intolerances

Food intolerances occur when the digestive system cannot properly break down certain components of food. This mechanism does not involve the immune system, which distinguishes intolerances from food allergies.

Lactose intolerance is the most common type and develops when the body produces insufficient amounts of lactase, the enzyme needed to digest lactose (the natural sugar found in milk and dairy products). When undigested lactose reaches the colon, it is fermented by bacteria, producing gas, bloating, and osmotic diarrhea (where water is drawn into the intestine).
Other intolerances include fructose malabsorption, difficulty processing the natural sugar found in fruits, honey, and some sweeteners, and reactions to sorbitol or other sugar alcohols used in “sugar-free” foods, chewing gum, and diet drinks. These substances remain unabsorbed in the gut and trigger diarrhea in a similar way to lactose.

Unlike allergic reactions, which can occur even with tiny amounts of a food, intolerances are dose-dependent, meaning symptoms become worse as more of the offending food is consumed. Avoiding or reducing intake of the triggering substance is usually sufficient to manage symptoms.

Medications

Several medications can disrupt the normal functioning of the digestive system and trigger diarrhea as a side effect.

Antibiotics are the most common cause of drug-induced diarrhea because they disrupt the natural balance of gut bacteria (the gut microbiome). When beneficial bacteria are reduced, harmful bacteria, such as Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile), can overgrow and cause severe, sometimes life-threatening diarrhea.
Antacids containing magnesium, which are used to relieve heartburn, may speed up intestinal movement and contribute to loose stools.
Chemotherapy drugs can irritate the gastrointestinal tract and impair its ability to regulate fluid absorption.
Certain blood pressure medications, such as ACE inhibitors or beta-blockers, may also indirectly cause diarrhea by altering gut motility or electrolyte balance.

Patients should not discontinue a prescribed medication without medical advice; however, healthcare providers may modify the dosage or substitute a different drug if diarrhea becomes persistent or disruptive.

Symptoms and Warning Signs

Diarrhea presents with various symptoms that range in severity. Some signs indicate mild illness, while others suggest urgent medical attention is necessary. Recognizing dehydration is particularly important because it can develop quickly and pose serious risks.

Mild Symptoms

Mild diarrhea typically involves frequent loose or watery stools occurring three or more times per day. Patients may experience mild abdominal cramping and bloating. Nausea or a slight fever under 101°F (38.3°C) might also be present.

These symptoms usually resolve within a few days without specific medical treatment. Mild diarrhea rarely causes significant discomfort beyond the inconvenience of frequent bowel movements. It is often connected to dietary changes or minor infections.

Severe Symptoms

Severe symptoms include persistent diarrhea lasting more than two days, accompanied by a high fever above 102°F (38.9°C). Blood or pus in the stool signals a more serious infection or inflammation. Intense abdominal pain or severe vomiting may also occur.

People experiencing severe symptoms should seek medical evaluation to rule out complications or underlying conditions like bacterial infections or gastrointestinal diseases. These symptoms require more aggressive treatment and possible hospitalization.

Signs of Dehydration

Signs of dehydration in diarrhea include dry mouth, excessive thirst, and dark yellow urine. Fatigue, dizziness, and decreased urination frequency are also common indicators. In children and elderly patients, sunken eyes and lethargy are additional warning signs.

Dehydration demands prompt management through oral rehydration solutions or intravenous fluids if severe. Monitoring fluid balance is critical to prevent life-threatening complications from fluid loss.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

Accurate diagnosis of diarrhea involves a thorough clinical assessment and targeted diagnostic tests. Determining the cause depends on detailed patient history, physical examination, and appropriate laboratory or imaging studies.

Medical History and Physical Examination

The initial step focuses on collecting comprehensive information about symptom onset, duration, stool characteristics, and associated symptoms such as fever or weight loss. Recent travel, dietary changes, medication use, and exposure to potentially contaminated food or water are critical details. Chronic diarrhea requires inquiry about underlying diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease or malabsorption syndromes.

Physical examination assesses hydration status, abdominal tenderness, and signs of systemic illness. Palpation may reveal tenderness, masses, or organomegaly. Vital signs help identify severity, including fever and hypotension indicative of severe infection or fluid loss.

Laboratory Tests

Laboratory evaluation begins with stool studies including microscopy for ova and parasites, bacterial cultures, and tests for Clostridium difficile toxin in suspected antibiotic-associated cases. Stool analysis for leukocytes or fecal calprotectin helps differentiate inflammatory diarrhea from non-inflammatory causes.

Blood tests often include a complete blood count to detect leukocytosis, electrolyte panels for dehydration assessment, and inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein or erythrocyte sedimentation rate. In chronic cases, additional tests such as thyroid function, celiac serology, or vitamin levels may be indicated.

Imaging Studies

Imaging is generally reserved for cases with alarming features or when complications are suspected. Abdominal X-rays can detect bowel obstruction or perforation. Ultrasound is useful for identifying biliary pathology or abscesses.

Computed tomography (CT) scans provide detailed visualization of the bowel wall and adjacent structures, helpful in diagnosing inflammatory bowel disease, ischemia, or intra-abdominal abscesses. Endoscopic procedures may follow imaging for tissue diagnosis if indicated.

Treatment Options

Effective management of diarrhea involves restoring fluid balance, adjusting the diet to reduce irritation, and using medications when appropriate.

Rehydration Therapy

The primary treatment for diarrhea is maintaining hydration. Excessive water and electrolyte loss can quickly lead to dehydration, which affects organ function and, in severe cases, can be life-threatening.

Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS): ORS is a specially formulated mixture of clean water, glucose (or sugar), and essential electrolytes such as sodium and potassium. The glucose enhances sodium absorption in the intestine, which in turn improves water absorption. This mechanism makes ORS significantly more effective than plain water in restoring hydration. WHO-recommended ORS has saved millions of lives worldwide and remains the most effective and accessible first-line treatment.
When IV Fluids Are Needed: Intravenous (IV) fluids are used when oral solutions are not sufficient or cannot be tolerated, for example, in cases of severe dehydration, persistent vomiting, shock, or altered consciousness. IV therapy rapidly restores volume and electrolytes and is often necessary in hospital or emergency care settings.
Monitoring Hydration: Key indicators of hydration status include urine frequency and color (dark or infrequent urine suggests dehydration), persistent thirst, dry mouth, sunken eyes in children, reduced skin elasticity, and fatigue or dizziness. Rehydration should continue until normal bowel movements and fluid balance are restored.

Dietary Adjustments

Modifying dietary intake helps reduce stress on the digestive system while the intestines recover.

Easily digestible, low-fiber foods such as bananas, rice, applesauce, toast, plain potatoes, and boiled vegetables are preferred. This approach is commonly known as the BRAT diet, although many doctors now recommend a broader range of mild foods to ensure adequate nutrition.
High-fat, spicy, fried, or heavily seasoned foods can worsen diarrhea by stimulating intestinal contractions or irritating the gut lining. Dairy products may temporarily worsen symptoms in people who develop temporary lactose intolerance after infection. Carbonated drinks, caffeine, and alcohol can also increase fluid loss and should be avoided until recovery.
Small, frequent meals place less strain on the digestive system than large meals. This allows the intestines more time to absorb nutrients and fluids.
Probiotics, beneficial bacteria found in some yogurts or supplements, may help restore normal gut microbiota disrupted by infections or antibiotic use. Certain strains, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Saccharomyces boulardii, have been shown to shorten the duration of diarrhea in some patients. However, their effectiveness varies by individual and should be used with medical guidance, especially in immunocompromised patients.

Medications for Diarrhea

Medications are not always required, but they can be helpful when symptoms are moderate or persistent, depending on the underlying cause.

1. Antimotility Agents

Drugs like loperamide slow intestinal movement, allowing more time for fluid absorption and reducing stool frequency. These are useful for non-infectious diarrhea, such as traveler’s diarrhea or irritable bowel syndrome. However, they should be avoided if a bacterial or parasitic infection is suspected, especially in the presence of blood in the stool or high fever, because slowing intestinal movement can worsen the infection.

2. Antisecretory Agents

Bismuth subsalicylate (commonly known under the brand name Pepto-Bismol) can reduce intestinal fluid secretion and provide relief from mild diarrhea, nausea, and cramping. It also has mild antibacterial properties, making it useful in some infectious cases.

3. Antibiotics

Antibiotics are prescribed selectively and only when a specific bacterial pathogen is confirmed or strongly suspected. Examples include:

Azithromycin for traveler’s diarrhea or cholera.
Ciprofloxacin for infections caused by certain strains of E. coli or Salmonella (where resistance levels are low).
Metronidazole or tinidazole for parasitic infections such as Giardia or Entamoeba histolytica.

Unnecessary antibiotic use is discouraged because it can worsen diarrhea by disrupting gut flora or contribute to antimicrobial resistance.

Because diarrhea can be caused by many different conditions, medical guidance ensures that medications are used safely and appropriately. In cases involving dehydration, persistent symptoms, or signs of infection, professional evaluation helps prevent complications.

Diarrhea in Different Populations

Diarrhea affects various groups differently due to physiological, environmental, and health factors. The risk, causes, and complications vary significantly among children, adults, and elderly individuals.

Children

Children, especially those under five years of age, are highly vulnerable to diarrhea. Their immune systems are not yet fully developed, which makes it easier for viruses, bacteria, and parasites to infect the intestinal tract. Rotavirus is one of the most common viral causes, particularly in early childhood, while bacterial infections acquired through contaminated food or water are also frequent.

Dehydration develops quickly in children due to their smaller body size and higher metabolic rate. Even a short period of fluid loss can become life-threatening if not addressed promptly. In many low- and middle-income countries, limited access to clean water, sanitation, and appropriate medical care further increases mortality risk. Malnutrition both worsens diarrhea and can result from it, creating a dangerous cycle in which nutrient loss weakens the immune system and makes children more susceptible to subsequent infections.

Adults

In adults, diarrhea can arise from a wide range of causes. While infections remain common, particularly in situations involving contaminated food or water, other triggers, such as medication side effects and food intolerances, play a more prominent role. For example, antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of gut bacteria, leading to diarrhea, while intolerance to lactose, fructose, or artificial sweeteners may trigger gastrointestinal upset in sensitive individuals.

A specific concern among adults is travelers’ diarrhea, which occurs when people visit regions with different sanitation standards or unfamiliar microorganisms. In most cases, this type of diarrhea is short-lived but can disrupt travel plans and may require medication if severe.

For some adults, diarrhea is not an isolated event but a chronic condition linked to underlying gastrointestinal disorders. Conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), celiac disease, and bile acid malabsorption can all cause long-term or recurrent symptoms that require medical investigation and ongoing management.

Elderly Individuals

Older adults face unique risks from diarrhea due to age-related changes in the body and the presence of other chronic diseases. The immune system weakens naturally with age, reducing the body’s ability to fight infection. Additionally, elderly individuals often take multiple medications, some of which, especially antibiotics, antacids containing magnesium, or certain heart medications, can loosen stools or disrupt digestion.

Dehydration is particularly dangerous in this group because the body’s thirst response diminishes with age, meaning early warning signs may go unnoticed. Complications such as kidney injury, electrolyte imbalance, and hospitalization are more common among elderly patients. Frailty, reduced mobility, and difficulty accessing fluids without assistance can further worsen outcomes.

Elderly patients are also more likely to suffer from underlying gastrointestinal conditions or have reduced intestinal absorption, which can intensify the effects of prolonged diarrhea. For these reasons, even mild cases in older adults may require closer medical monitoring compared to younger age groups.

Potential Complications

Electrolyte Imbalance

Electrolyte imbalance is one of the most immediate and life-threatening consequences of diarrhea. Because diarrhea causes excessive and rapid loss of fluids rich in sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate, the body is unable to maintain normal cellular and metabolic functions.

The imbalance particularly affects nerve conduction and muscle contractions, including those of the heart. This explains why patients often experience muscle cramps, dizziness, weakness, confusion, lethargy, and irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias) when electrolyte levels fall dangerously low. In severe cases, this may progress to shock or even death if not corrected quickly.

High-risk groups include infants, who have a limited physiological reserve and dehydrate faster, and older adults or patients with kidney disease, whose electrolyte regulation mechanisms are already compromised. Mild cases can be managed using oral rehydration solutions (ORS), while severe dehydration or altered mental status requires intravenous electrolyte replacement under medical supervision.

Malnutrition

When diarrhea is persistent or recurrent, it disrupts the intestinal lining responsible for nutrient absorption. Over time, this can lead to malabsorption, where the body is unable to absorb essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and trace minerals.

This complication is especially severe in children, because ongoing nutrient loss directly interferes with physical growth and cognitive development. In areas where diarrhea is common, it is a major contributor to stunting, weight loss, impaired immunity, and developmental delays. In adults, prolonged malnutrition leads to muscle wasting, fatigue, reduced work capacity, and increased susceptibility to infections due to a weakened immune system.

The relationship between diarrhea and malnutrition is cyclical, malnourished individuals are more prone to infections, and infections worsen nutritional deficiencies, creating a dangerous feedback loop.

Chronic Health Effects

When diarrhea becomes prolonged, it may be a symptom of more serious underlying gastrointestinal disorders. Chronic inflammation of the bowel mucosa can lead to structural and functional damage, predisposing patients to long-term digestive conditions.

Conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, may either be triggered or worsened by recurrent diarrheal episodes. The repeated irritation and damage to the intestinal lining reduce absorption capacity, disrupt the gut microbiome, and lead to ongoing symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits.

In addition, frequent diarrhea increases the risk of micronutrient deficiencies such as iron, zinc, and vitamin A deficiency, all of which impair immune function and delay healing.

When diarrhea is caused by parasitic infections (e.g., giardiasis, amoebiasis), the gut may remain inflamed long after the initial infection, causing prolonged discomfort and a higher chance of future gastrointestinal infections.

Prevention Strategies

Effective prevention focuses on minimizing exposure to pathogens and maintaining strong immune defenses. Key actions involve personal hygiene, safe food and water consumption, and immunization.

Hygiene Practices

Proper hygiene is one of the most effective and low-cost methods of preventing diarrhea.

Handwashing with soap and clean running water removes germs before they enter the mouth through food, hands, or surfaces. Handwashing is especially critical after using the toilet, after changing diapers, before preparing meals, and before eating. Studies have shown that routine handwashing can reduce diarrheal disease by up to 40% in some communities.
Sanitation and waste disposal are equally important. Using hygienic toilets or latrines prevents fecal matter from contaminating soil and water sources. Safe disposal of diapers and animal waste also helps limit the spread of germs.
Environmental cleanliness plays a preventive role as well. Frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, countertops, and kitchen utensils, should be cleaned regularly, particularly in households with young children or sick individuals. In communal environments like schools or daycare centers, disinfecting shared toys and equipment further reduces risk.
Avoiding direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated objects is another preventive measure. Items such as towels, cutlery, and drinking cups should not be shared unless they have been thoroughly washed.

Food and Water Safety

Because many diarrheal pathogens are transmitted through contaminated food and water, safe handling and preparation are crucial.

Ensuring that drinking water is safe is a primary preventive measure. Water should be sourced from treated municipal supplies, purified using certified filters, or boiled for at least one minute before consumption to kill microbes. In regions lacking centralized water treatment, household-level interventions such as chlorination, UV purification, or ceramic filters can significantly reduce infection risk.
Food should always be cooked thoroughly, especially meat, poultry, eggs, and seafood, because harmful bacteria and parasites often survive in undercooked foods. Eating food while it is still hot reduces the risk of contamination during cooling or storage.
Raw or unwashed produce can harbor pathogens. Fruits and vegetables should be washed with clean water, and peeling fruits can further reduce exposure. Leafy greens and salads are common vehicles of infection when prepared under unhygienic conditions.
Proper food storage is another critical factor. Prepared food should be kept covered to protect it from flies, which can carry and deposit pathogens. Refrigeration slows bacterial growth; in areas without refrigeration, cooked meals should be consumed immediately rather than stored.
Street food and food from unknown vendors may pose a higher risk if hygiene practices are uncertain, food is left uncovered, or handwashing facilities are inadequate. Travelers and residents alike are advised to be cautious when purchasing ready-to-eat food from roadside stalls.

Vaccination

Vaccines are available for several pathogens that cause diarrhea, especially rotavirus. Rotavirus vaccination is one of the most widely used preventive tools for childhood diarrhea. Rotavirus is a leading cause of severe watery diarrhea in infants and young children worldwide. Vaccinating infants significantly reduces the risk of hospitalization, dehydration, and death.

Some regions also recommend vaccines for cholera—particularly during outbreaks or for travelers to high-risk areas. Cholera vaccines protect against Vibrio cholerae, which can cause severe secretory diarrhea.

Vaccination does not replace good hygiene or safe food and water practices but works alongside them to provide comprehensive protection.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Medical attention should be sought if diarrhea lasts more than two days in adults or 24 hours in children. Prolonged symptoms may indicate an underlying condition requiring treatment.

If diarrhea is accompanied by any of the following, immediate medical care is advised:

High fever (above 102°F or 39°C)
Severe abdominal or rectal pain
Signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, dizziness, or decreased urine output

Blood or pus in the stool signals a more serious infection or inflammation. This requires prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Individuals with weakened immune systems, chronic illnesses, or elderly persons should report diarrhea early. Their risk of complications is higher, and they may need specialized care.

Additionally, if diarrhea occurs after recent travel, antibiotic use, or exposure to contaminated food or water, medical assessment is recommended to identify specific causes and appropriate treatments.

Living With Chronic Diarrhea

Individuals living with chronic diarrhea often require a tailored treatment plan that may include prescribed medications such as anti-diarrheals, bile acid binders, or targeted antibiotics for infections.

Keeping track of bowel habits and potential triggers through a symptom diary helps identify patterns and allows for more personalized treatment adjustments.
Maintaining adequate hydration remains a top priority to compensate for frequent fluid loss and reduce the risk of dehydration.
Diet modifications are essential, with patients encouraged to avoid high-fat, spicy foods and artificial sweeteners like sorbitol, which can aggravate symptoms.
Incorporating soluble fiber from foods such as oats, bananas, or psyllium can help bulk and stabilize stools for better bowel control.
Stress reduction techniques, including meditation, breathing exercises, or yoga, may lower the frequency and intensity of flare-ups by supporting gut-brain regulation.
Regular physical activity promotes healthy digestion, though it should be balanced with hydration needs to avoid triggering further fluid loss.
Practical planning is equally important, ensuring easy access to bathrooms when outside the home helps maintain confidence and reduces anxiety associated with urgency.
Choosing comfortable, breathable clothing can also improve daily comfort and quality of life for people managing ongoing symptoms.