Can diarrhea and piles lead to significant weight loss?

Question

Hello Doctor

I have been experiencing diarrhea on and off for the past few weeks, and I have also had piles for the last five days (which have slightly improved). However, I have lost almost one stone in weight over the past few weeks as well.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and understand your concerns.

It is possible that your symptoms are due to chronic digestive irritation. A poor diet combined with frequent diarrhea can inflame your digestive tract, weaken the gut lining, and make piles worse, especially with all the straining and loose stools. What is more concerning is the weight loss. While some weight loss can happen if you have had ongoing diarrhea and a poor appetite, losing this much without trying is a red flag. It could be due to your body not properly absorbing nutrients (as in conditions like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease).

In the meantime, improve your diet.
Try eating more simple, easy-to-digest foods like plain rice, boiled potatoes, oats, bananas, and toast. Stay away from spicy, greasy, and heavily processed foods for now.
Also, make sure you are drinking enough water, and consider adding an oral rehydration solution to replace lost fluids and salts.
To manage the piles, take warm sitz baths to soothe the area. Avoid straining during bowel movements; using a fiber supplement like psyllium husk (Isabgol) can help soften your stools and make things easier.

If you notice any serious symptoms like strong abdominal pain, blood or mucus in your stools, high fever, or signs of dehydration (like dizziness or dark urine), go to the emergency department right away.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.