Why does eating spicy or irritating food cause stomach pain and diarrhea, and what should be done about it?
Abdominal pain and diarrhea after eating spicy or irritating foods may be caused by physiological factors or pathological conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or intestinal flora imbalance. The specific analysis is as follows:
I. Physiological Factors
Irritating foods can directly affect the gastrointestinal mucosa, disrupting normal gut motility and leading to abdominal pain and diarrhea. Symptoms may be relieved by drinking warm water in moderation.
II. Pathological Factors
1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS may result from increased visceral sensitivity or abnormal nervous system regulation, causing the aforementioned symptoms after eating. Patients may take medications such as compound diphenoxylate tablets or montmorillonite powder under medical guidance for symptom relief.
2. Intestinal Flora Imbalance
An overgrowth of bacteria such as Enterococcus or Escherichia coli may disrupt the balance of intestinal flora, breaking down the gut's ecological equilibrium. This imbalance can trigger symptoms when consuming irritating foods. Treatment may include medications like racecadotril granules or loperamide hydrochloride capsules, taken as prescribed.
In addition, abdominal pain and diarrhea triggered by eating irritating foods could also be due to conditions such as acute gastroenteritis, chronic gastritis, duodenitis, duodenal ulcer, gastric ulcer, or Crohn’s disease. It is recommended that patients seek timely medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.