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Symptoms of Loose Bowels

During the normal digestion process, undigested food is sent to the lower intestines, where the water is absorbed. The end result is a stool with a more defined consistency than when the food arrived. In atypical digestion the undigested food reaches the small intestine with too much water or passes too quickly for the water to be absorbed. Though millions are affected every day, it is important to recognize the various signs that may be symptoms of a greater illness.

  1. Early Symptoms

    • Loose bowel sensations can start anywhere from mere minutes to hours after food has been consumed. A typical onslaught begins with lower abdominal cramping. Intense urgency ensues, and the individual will be provoked to quickly head to the bathroom.

    Sensations

    • Frequently even after the waste material has been expelled, an individual cannot find relief. It is a common occurrence to sit on the toilet until the next wave of stomach cramping.

    Chronic Diarrhea

    • Chronic diarrhea can leave a person with rectal pain. Wiping, clothing and sitting may put more pressure on the rectum's blood vessels. Use soft toilet paper and wash the affected area with cool water. If you experience loose bowels for over 3 weeks, make an appointment with your doctor and bring a food journal.

    Types of Loose Bowels

    • There are two types of problematic diarrhea: acute diarrhea, lasting a few days to a week, and chronic diarrhea, lasting over 3 weeks. Both types leave an individual feeling fatigued, weak and nauseated. Regardless of the causes, people who are pregnant, elderly or who have existing diseases should contact their physician immediately.

    Serious Symptoms

    • Diarrhea can be life-threatening when important electrolytes are lost in watery stools. Symptoms that diarrhea has led to dehydration include fainting, dry mouth, rapid heartbeat, kidney shock, coma and death. Drink plenty of water or beverages with electrolytes, eat foods with potassium such as bananas, avoid high-fiber foods and diary products, and refrain from caffeine and tobacco. While a nonthreatening case of loose bowels may be the body's way of flushing out dangerous toxins, if symptoms persists or if you are in danger of being dehydrated, seek medical attention.

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