What causes long-term loose and unformed stools?

Persistent loose and unformed stools may be due to physiological factors, but pathological causes such as enteritis or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) cannot be ruled out. The specific analysis is as follows:

I. Physiological Factors

Long-term improper diet, irregular eating habits, or poor mental health can lead to gastrointestinal dysfunction. When the balance of intestinal flora is disrupted, it may result in loose and unformed stools. Adjusting lifestyle and dietary habits—such as reducing intake of spicy and irritating foods—can help improve the condition.

II. Pathological Factors

1. Enteritis

Consuming contaminated food can lead to intestinal infections. Bacteria, viruses, and harmful bacteria such as Escherichia coli may proliferate excessively in the intestines, increasing the intestinal burden and accelerating intestinal motility, thereby causing loose and unformed stools.

2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

The exact pathogenesis of IBS is not fully understood, but it may be related to abnormal nervous system function, excessive psychological stress, or intestinal viral infections. These factors can disrupt the gut-brain interaction, leading to symptoms such as loose and unformed stools, paroxysmal abdominal pain, gastric burning, nausea, and vomiting.

In addition, chronic gastritis, colitis, or other diseases may also cause similar symptoms. Patients are advised to visit the gastroenterology department at a local hospital for routine stool tests and abdominal ultrasound to accurately identify the underlying cause and receive timely medical treatment.