Treatment for Diabetic Diarrhea

Frequent diarrhea has been reported in 22 percent of individuals with a long history of diabetes. No cure for diabetic diarrhea exists, but effective treatments are available.

Identification

• Diabetic diarrhea is the condition of chronic diarrhea in individuals with a long history of diabetes.

Types

• Diabetic diarrhea has many different causes. It can occur as a result of autonomic neuropathy, a condition in which the nerves that control the small intestine are damaged. It can also result from various problems with the small intestines or colon. Another possible cause is an abnormality in the absorption and secretion of colonic fluid.

Treatment

• The symptoms of diabetic diarrhea can be treated with over-the-counter medications such as diphenoxylate (Lomotil) or loperamide (Immodium). Fiber supplements that contain bran or high-fiber foods may also work to thicken the consistency of watery diarrhea. And antispasmodic medicines such as hyosymine (Levsin), dicyclomine (Bentyl) and chordiazepoxide (Librax)/clindinium (Clindex) may also help to decrease defecation frequency.

Famous Ties

• The list is quite long, but actress Halle Berry, Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, talk-show host Larry King and rock star and reality show celebrity Bret Michaels are just a few well-known personalities who suffer from diabetes.

Warning

• Diarrhea can result in dehydration. If you suffer from diabetic diarrhea, be sure to drink plenty of water and clear sugar-free liquids that are free of caffeine. If diarrhea is severe and persistent without relief, speak to your physician or endocrinologist about whether a referral to a gastroenterologist is warranted.