Overview of Diarrhea, Chronic , Non-specific Of Childhood
Chronic diarrhea has to be present for over three weeks. There are several major categories of this disorder. The causes of acute and chronic diarrhea overlap somewhat. In general, infections more commonly lead to acute diarrhea and other disorders more commonly produce chronic diarrhea.
Causes of Diarrhea, Chronic , Non-specific Of Childhood
The most common form of chronic diarrhea is functional. That is, no organic cause can be found. Chronic diarrhea can develop from excess secretion from the intestine. This occurs with thyrotoxicosis, carcinoid syndrome, colon cancer, colonic polyps and some drugs. Osmotic diarrhea develops when some contents of the intestinal tract are poorly absorbed. This occurs with lactose intolerance, laxatives, celiac disease, some drugs and pancreatic insufficiency. Exudative diarrhea produces blood or mucus in the stool. It occurs with ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease. lymphoma, ishcemic colitis and Whipple's disease. Motility disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome, narcotic use and fecal impaction, can all lead to chronic diarrhea. Malabsorption, whether from surgical removal of part of the intestinal tract, radiation or bacterial overgrowth, all can produce chronic diarrhea. Chronic infections of the intestine can occur with compromised immune systems, especially those with HIV or AIDS.
Signs and Symptoms of Diarrhea, Chronic , Non-specific Of Childhood
Chronic diarrhea is associated with frequent, loose stools that often contain undigested vegetable fibers or mucus. Bouts of chronic diarrhea occur frequently in the morning.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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