What should I do if I've had diarrhea for half a month and it hasn't gotten better yet?

“Diarrhea” refers to loose or watery stools. In general, if diarrhea persists for half a month without improvement, it may indicate that the current treatment is inappropriate. Chronic diarrhea may be caused by conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chronic enteritis, or radiation-induced enteritis. Patients should undergo targeted treatment based on the underlying cause. A detailed analysis follows:

    1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

    Prolonged exposure to adverse emotional states—such as anxiety or fear—may impair normal gastrointestinal function and trigger IBS, leading to persistent diarrhea. Patients are advised to take medications—including mebeverine hydrochloride tablets or alverine citrate capsules—under physician guidance. Additionally, maintaining open communication with others may help alleviate negative emotions.

    2. Chronic Enteritis

    Untreated or inadequately treated acute enteritis may progress to chronic enteritis, commonly manifesting as persistent diarrhea lasting over two weeks, often accompanied by mucus in stool and abdominal pain. Under medical supervision, patients may be prescribed lactobacillus tablets or sophora flavescens capsules. Adequate hydration is also essential to replenish lost fluids.

    3. Radiation-Induced Enteritis

    Radiological examinations or radiotherapy may irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa, causing mucosal damage—including erosion, ulceration, bleeding—and resulting in diarrhea. Treatment under physician guidance may include sucralfate tablets or mesalazine enteric-coated tablets. A bland, easily digestible diet is recommended.

    In addition to the above three causes, prolonged diarrhea may also stem from other conditions—for example, rectal cancer. Patients are advised to seek an accurate diagnosis and receive etiology-specific treatment accordingly.