Understanding Chronic or Functional Diarrhea
What is Diarrhea? Diarrhea is defined as passing frequent and/or loose or watery stools. Acute diarrhea goes away in a few weeks, and becomes chronic when it lasts longer than 3–4 weeks. If no specific cause is found after a thorough investigation and certain criteria are met, a diagnosis of functional or chronic diarrhea may […]
Radiation Induced Injury to the Colon and Rectum
At a Glance Radiation therapy can injure the colon and/or rectum. Diarrhea, urgency, incontinence, and rectal bleeding are common symptoms. Symptoms may occur weeks or years later. Several treatments are available. Experiencing symptoms of diarrhea, urgency, incontinence, and rectal bleeding can be a significant source of stress that calls for consultation with a physician. Those […]
Long Term Use of Loperamide
Can loperamide be used long-term? Question – I have IBS with alternating constipation and diarrhea, each lasting several weeks. How safe is it to ‘control’ my diarrhea with loperamide on an on-going basis? Can I take it daily (perhaps in the morning) for an indefinite period of time? Answer – Alternating diarrhea and constipation is […]
