Causes of Daily Diarrhea

Daily diarrhea often indicates an underlying health problem. Diarrhea that lasts for more than 2 weeks is defined as chronic diarrhea, according to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention's Division of Parasitic Diseases. Although diarrhea is not always harmful, it is uncomfortable and may lead to dehydration. Persons with suppressed immune systems are particularly at risk for complications due to chronic diarrhea.

Infection

• Infections are caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites. Bacterial infections that may cause daily diarrhea include salmonella, shigella and e.coli poisoning. Viral infections include norovirus and rotovirus, which are particularly common in young children. Parasitic infections are less common and include cryptosporidium, entamoeba, cyclospora, giardia and cystoisospora. These infections may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and lethargy.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

• According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse online, irritable bowel syndrome is a functional disorder of the bowels that causes severe diarrhea and abdominal cramping. Other symptoms include bloating or constipation. There is no cure for the disorder, and patients are usually advised to make diet changes and avoid fatty foods, caffeine, chocolate, alcohol and dairy products.

Chronic Pancreatitis

• Some cases of chronic pancreatitis result in frequent diarrhea. Stools that are characteristic of the disease tend to be foul-smelling, light-colored and oily. The disorder also causes intense abdominal cramping that can last days. Upon diagnosis, patients are advised to avoid alcohol, which can intensify the disorder, and may even need to take IV fluids for a couple of days until the inflammation dies down. Pain relievers are often prescribed to help patients deal with flare ups.