What Is Burning Diarrhea?
Nobody likes having diarrhea, and it can occasionally be a sign of another condition as well. A burning feeling in the rectum or anus is one of the additional symptoms that can occur along with diarrhea. This is described as ‘burning diarrhea.’ The strong bowel evacuation will not be painful, but the burning feeling in the rectum or anus will be excruciating.
The poor absorption of adequate fluid from bodily waste by the intestines results in diarrhea. As a result, a person may suffer loose, fluid-filled feces three or more times each day, with or without experiencing rectal pain.
What Are the Causes of Burning Diarrhea?
There could be various causes for burning diarrhea. The following are the most typical causes of burning diarrhea:
1. Consuming Hot Foods (Capsaicin):
Warm stools are typically seen in the colon and rectum of the abdominal cavity. However, burning in the colon, rectum, or anus is a sign of inflammation. However, eating a lot of spicy food might occasionally also result in burning diarrhea. If one notices any changes in the bowel movements, it is best to see a doctor.
Generally found in spicy foods like peppers, capsaicin is a naturally occurring chemical. One of the most prevalent causes of burning diarrhea is eating spicy or capsaicin-containing foods. This capsaicin will burn the skin when it comes into contact with it and may even trigger asthma attacks. This substance causes burning diarrhea when consumed, along with nausea, vomiting, and cramping in the stomach. Consequently, those with sensitive stomachs, peptic ulcers, digestive issues, or irritable bowel syndrome should avoid it. A burning feeling can also be caused by acidic chemicals in the stool.
Other elements that may contribute to burning diarrhea include:
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Alcohol misuse.
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Coffee.
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Abusing laxatives.
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Synthetic sweeteners.
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Fructose.
2. Hemorrhoids:
Hemorrhoids can be caused by prolonged constipation as well as other circumstances, including applying too much pressure or stress to the anus. Hemorrhoids are nothing more than irritated veins in the anus or rectum. Hemorrhoids are also a common cause of burning diarrhea, although more frequently in conjunction with constipation. Pain and a burning feeling may result from the irritation of these inflammatory veins during bowel movements.
3. Medication:
Antibiotics and other medications are common sources of burning diarrhea. Antibiotics disrupt the physiological environment of beneficial microorganisms in the intestines, causing bowel issues. Bacterial overgrowth or infection by toxin-producing bacteria can result from an imbalance in the natural balance of beneficial bacteria in the intestine.
4. Irritable Bowel Syndrome:
The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can include burning during bowel movements, pain, and frequent diarrhea. One of the reasons for burning diarrhea is IBS. Hormonal fluctuations, overstress, and specific food types are a few frequent causes of IBS. IBS symptoms can include:
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Bloating.
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Gas.
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Stool with mucus.
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Pain in the stomach.
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Cramping.
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Alternating between diarrhea and constipation.
Symptoms can differ from one individual to the next. The signs and symptoms of IBS can occasionally come and go.
5. Injury and Irritation:
When constipation is experienced regularly over a short period, it can irritate the anus and perhaps even cause tissue damage. Wiping the anal area repeatedly after a bowel movement is another factor that may irritate and injure the anus. When there is inflammation and injury in the area, even soft toilet paper could be problematic. Fecal particles on the anal skin might occasionally persist even after insufficient cleansing. An inflammatory response and a burning feeling may result from the wound and discomfort.
6. Fever:
When diarrhea has an infectious cause, such as bacterial or viral gastroenteritis, fever usually follows. It is also possible for diarrheal stools to feel warmer than usual due to an increase in body temperature. Even a tiny shift in stool temperature can be misinterpreted as burning diarrhea in a very sensitive individual.
7. Proctitis:
Proctitis is an inflammation of the rectum. Numerous variables, including injuries, allergies, irritability, infections, and autoimmune conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), can cause it. Numerous infectious pathogens, some of which are sexually transmitted, can result in infected proctitis. Infections of the rectum cause pain, burning sensations, diarrhea, blood or mucus in the stool, and a persistent urge to eliminate feces.
8. Colorectal Cancer:
Burning diarrhea can be a symptom of more serious illnesses, such as colorectal cancer. When a malignant tumor penetrates the tissue of the rectal area, it may hurt or burn. In addition, other symptoms, such as rectal bleeding may occur along with diarrhea. It is more likely for these symptoms to be misdiagnosed as other illnesses, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or hemorrhoids.
How to Diagnose the Cause of Burning Diarrhea?
The methods to detect the cause of burning diarrhea are:
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Digital Rectal Examination: To feel for growths or lumps, the doctor will place a gloved and lubricated finger inside the butt.
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Colonoscopy: An endoscope, equipped with a tiny light and camera, is used to inspect the colon and rectum in order to check for conditions such as internal hemorrhoids. These are more prevalent in those over 50.
How to Manage Burning Diarrhea?
The management of burning diarrhea usually includes lifestyle alterations and simple treatments. Some of the ways to treat burning diarrhea include:
1. Dietary Modification:
Individuals should cut back on their intake of spicy food if they feel that their burning diarrhea is caused by overindulging in it. Keep a food journal to identify trigger foods and make a conscious effort to stay away from them. Eat things that help with digestion and stomach calming. Probiotics, such as yogurt or buttermilk, can help with digestion and lessen the symptoms of burning diarrhea.
2. Fluids and Electrolytes Replacement:
Typically, diarrhea results in significant fluid loss. Therefore, it is crucial to replace the salt and sugar lost as a result of diarrhea; hence anyone experiencing diarrhea of any form should take oral rehydration solutions that contain electrolytes.
For the treatment to be effective, treating the underlying cause of burning diarrhea is also necessary in addition to lifestyle changes. The severity of the illness and the frequency of loose stools influence the course of treatment for diarrhea.
Conclusion:
Burning diarrhea is a condition that can be brought on by spicy foods, skin irritation, an anal fissure, or other problems. Following diagnosis, the goal of treatment is to manage the underlying ailment and reduce symptoms. To get an accurate diagnosis, it is advisable to speak with a healthcare provider if the cause is unknown or if symptoms do not go away. They will be able to provide options for therapy so that one can stop having burning diarrhea.
