Chronic Diarrhoea: Understanding and Managing Your Symptoms

Chronic diarrhoea is not a disease itself, but a symptom of something else going on in your body. There are many possible causes, and sometimes they can be complex. Common reasons include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or coeliac disease. Food intolerances, such as lactose intolerance, can also play a role. Sometimes, side effects from medications, previous surgeries, or even stress and anxiety can trigger ongoing diarrhoea. Less commonly, infections or problems with how your body absorbs nutrients might be the cause. Because there are so many possibilities, it’s important to find out the exact reason for your symptoms.

When you visit your doctor, they'll start by asking about your symptoms in detail—when they began, how often they occur, and if you’ve noticed any other changes like weight loss or tiredness. They’ll also ask about your diet, medications, travel history, and any family history of digestive issues.

Your doctor may arrange some simple tests, such as blood and stool tests, to look for signs of infection, inflammation, or conditions like coeliac disease. In some cases, you might need further investigations, like a gastroscopy or colonoscopy, or specialist breath tests. These investigations help to rule out any serious problems and make sure you get the right treatment.

Dietary approaches:

Diet has a big impact on gastrointestinal symptoms. Keeping a food diary can help you and doctors/dieticians spot any patterns or triggers. Some people benefit from specific diets, like a low FODMAP or lactose-free diet, but these should always be tried with the help of a dietitian to make sure you’re still getting all the nutrients you need. For others, simply avoiding foods that are spicy, fatty, or high in caffeine can help. It’s important not to cut out foods unnecessarily, as this can lead to other health problems.

Lifestyle adjustments:

Staying well hydrated is very important, as diarrhoea can lead to loss of fluids and salts. Drinking plenty of water and, if needed, oral rehydration solutions can help, especially for those at higher risk of dehydration.

Managing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, or talking therapies can also help, as stress and anxiety are known to affect gut health. This is linked to what’s called the gut-brain axis—a close connection between your digestive system and your mind.

New digital therapies, such as hypnotherapy apps, use guided relaxation and gut-directed techniques to help manage symptoms of IBS and chronic diarrhoea. Studies have shown that these apps can help to significantly reduce abdominal pain, improve symptoms, and boost quality of life for many people

Probiotics:


Probiotics are friendly bacteria that may help restore a healthy balance in your gut. Some research suggests they can reduce symptoms like bloating and diarrhoea, especially after antibiotics or in certain gut conditions. Not all probiotics are the same, so it’s best to discuss their use with your healthcare provider.

Medical treatments:

Depending on the cause of your chronic diarrhoea, your doctor may suggest medication. This could include medicines to slow down bowel movements, treat inflammation, or address specific conditions like IBS or IBD. All treatments are tailored to your individual needs, and your doctor will monitor your progress and adjust your plan as needed.

Personalised care:

Everyone’s experience of chronic diarrhoea is different. That’s why a personalised approach, involving you in decisions about your care, is so important. Your healthcare team will work with you to find the best strategies for your lifestyle and preferences.

At Welbeck, we understand how much chronic diarrhoea can affect your life. Our specialist gastroenterology team offers expert, compassionate care from your first appointment through to long-term management. You’ll have access to leading consultants, advanced diagnostic tools, and a dedicated team of dietitians. The focus is on personalised, comprehensive care, supporting you from diagnosis through every stage of your journey.

Chronic diarrhoea can be distressing, but with the right support and a tailored approach, it can be managed effectively. If you're struggling with ongoing symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek help.

At Welbeck, we’re here to provide expert assessment and the care you need to get back to living life with confidence.