Diarrhea can be classified as acute or chronic depending on how long the symptoms last, or by what causes it. The most common causes include intestinal infections from viruses, parasites, or bacteria, intestinal conditions such as ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome, stress and anxiety, as well as food intolerances and allergies, like in celiac disease.
Diarrhea is defined as having more than three bowel movements a day with liquid or loose stools. It is important to see a gastroenterologist if diarrhea is persistent and other symptoms appear, such as cracked lips, fatigue, reduced urine output, or mental confusion.
Also recommended: What Your Poop Color Means (Green, Black, Yellow, Red & White) tuasaude.com/en/what-your-poop-meansDiarrhea can also show up in different colors, which can help the doctor identify possible causes and order specific tests to confirm the reason before starting treatment.
Main types
The main types of diarrhea include:
1. Acute and chronic diarrhea
Diarrhea is classified as acute or chronic based on how long it lasts. Acute diarrhea lasts up to 14 days, while chronic diarrhea is when symptoms last for 30 days or longer.
What to do: consult a gastroenterologist to investigate the cause of diarrhea and receive the best treatment to control symptoms and prevent complications.
2. Infectious diarrhea
Infectious diarrhea is usually caused by parasites, viruses, or bacteria transmitted through contaminated food or water, leading to intestinal symptoms.
The main bacteria that cause infectious diarrhea are E. coli, Salmonella sp., and Shigella sp., which are often found in contaminated food. Parasitic infections are more common in children due to their developing immune systems and tendency to put their hands in their mouths regardless of cleanliness. The most common parasites include Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba histolytica, and Ascaris lumbricoides.
What to do: if diarrhea is caused by an infection, the doctor will usually order specific tests to identify the microorganism responsible and begin proper treatment. In cases of parasitic infection, stool tests are often requested to confirm the parasite involved.
3. Diarrhea with blood
Blood in the stool is most often linked to hemorrhoids or anal fissures. However, diarrhea with blood may also indicate more serious or chronic problems such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections.
In some cases, diarrhea with blood can occur as a side effect of certain medications or be a sign of colorectal cancer. It is important to seek medical care as soon as possible to identify the cause. If diarrhea is caused by a bacterial infection, blood in the stool may suggest the bacteria have entered the bloodstream, which can lead to sepsis, a serious condition.
What to do: if diarrhea is accompanied by blood, go to the nearest emergency room right away for diagnosis and treatment. Doctors often order lab tests to confirm the cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
4. Yellow diarrhea
Yellow diarrhea is often related to trouble digesting fats and reduced intestinal absorption. It is more common in people with food intolerances or allergies, such as celiac disease.
In most cases, yellow diarrhea is temporary, lasting up to two days, and may be linked to emotional factors like stress or anxiety. However, if it lasts longer and comes with other symptoms, it may indicate intestinal, pancreatic, or gallbladder problems such as irritable bowel syndrome or intestinal infections.
What to do: see a gastroenterologist if diarrhea lasts more than two days. For celiac disease, avoiding foods that contain gluten is recommended. If diarrhea is caused by an intestinal infection, treatment usually involves medications prescribed by the doctor, such as antibiotics or antiparasitic drugs. In suspected cases of irritable bowel syndrome, pancreatic conditions, or gallbladder disease, the doctor may recommend lab or imaging tests for a proper diagnosis.
5. Green diarrhea
Green stool is usually linked to faster intestinal transit, which prevents bile from being fully digested and results in a greenish color. This can happen due to stress or intestinal conditions such as parasitic infections, Crohn’s disease, or irritable bowel syndrome.
Green diarrhea can also result from eating large amounts of green vegetables, foods with green coloring, or frequent use of laxatives.
What to do: as with other types of diarrhea, it is important to drink plenty of fluids and follow a balanced diet to prevent dehydration. A gastroenterologist should be consulted to determine the cause and start treatment. Depending on the case, antiparasitic medication may be prescribed, or dietary changes may be recommended, such as avoiding green vegetables and iron-rich foods temporarily until symptoms improve.
6. Traveler’s diarrhea
Traveler’s diarrhea is an infectious type of diarrhea caused by bacteria such as E. coli, Campylobacter jejuni, Shigella, or Salmonella sp. It usually affects people traveling to countries with poor sanitation or improper food hygiene and storage. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps.
What to do: treatment is usually done with antibiotics prescribed by a gastroenterologist or general practitioner. It is also essential to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.