Loose stools accompanied by bloating and abdominal pain may be related to indigestion, gut microbiota imbalance, or chronic enteritis. Treatment can alleviate symptoms by adjusting diet, taking probiotics, and medication. Dietary recommendations include avoiding high-fat and high-fiber foods and choosing easily digestible foods such as white porridge and steamed eggs. Medications may include probiotic preparations, digestive enzymes, or antidiarrheal medications such as montmorillonite powder. If symptoms persist, medical attention should be sought to rule out inflammatory bowel disease or irritable bowel syndrome.
1. Indigestion is a common cause of loose stools and bloating. Insufficient stomach acid secretion or a lack of digestive enzymes can affect food breakdown, leading to undigested food residue entering the intestines, stimulating faster intestinal peristalsis, and making stools difficult to form. It is recommended to reduce the intake of greasy and spicy foods, avoid overeating, and take digestive enzyme preparations such as multi-enzyme tablets to help improve digestive function.
2. Gut microbiota imbalance disrupts the gut microecological balance, affecting food digestion and absorption, leading to abnormal bowel movements and bloating. Long-term use of antibiotics, irregular eating habits, or excessive stress can all trigger gut microbiota imbalance. Supplementing with probiotics such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus can help restore gut microbiota balance, while increasing dietary fiber intake, such as from oats and sweet potatoes, promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria.
3. Chronic enteritis such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease can cause inflammation of the intestinal mucosa, leading to loose stools, abdominal pain, and bloating. These diseases are often associated with immune system abnormalities and require prompt medical attention for diagnosis. Treatment options include anti-inflammatory drugs such as mesalazine and immunosuppressants such as azathioprine; in severe cases, surgical removal of the affected intestinal segment may be necessary.
4. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional bowel disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. Stress, mood swings, or food intolerances may trigger symptoms. Treatment may include antispasmodics such as pinaverium bromide to relieve abdominal pain, combined with a low-FODMAP diet, reducing the intake of gas-producing foods such as beans and onions.
5. Food intolerances such as lactose intolerance or gluten allergy can cause intestinal discomfort and abnormal bowel movements. Those with lactose intolerance should avoid dairy products and choose lactose-free milk or yogurt; those with gluten allergy must strictly adhere to a gluten-free diet and avoid gluten-containing foods such as wheat and barley. If necessary, food intolerance testing can be performed to identify the allergen.
Loose stools and abdominal bloating can have a variety of causes, ranging from dietary habits to intestinal diseases. Treatment requires addressing the specific cause. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention promptly for a thorough examination to rule out serious intestinal diseases and ensure gut health. Maintaining good food hygiene and a regular sleep schedule can help prevent and improve symptoms.