What is functional diarrhea?

Functional diarrhea is a common intestinal functional disorder symptom and belongs to the category of functional gastrointestinal disorders. It is not caused by organic lesions such as infections, tumors, or inflammation, but rather results from abnormal intestinal motility, visceral hypersensitivity, psychological factors, and other related causes.

Patients mainly experience long-term recurrent episodes of diarrhea, usually occurring after waking up in the morning or following meals. Bowel movements increase in frequency and the stool becomes loose or even watery, though without pus, blood, or mucus. Additionally, patients may experience symptoms such as abdominal pain and discomfort, which often improve after defecation.

Patients are advised to improve their dietary habits and avoid foods that may trigger diarrhea, such as wheat-based products and dairy items. If symptoms persist, pharmacological treatment may be considered, including medications like loperamide and diphenoxylate. These drugs exert antidiarrheal effects by binding to opioid receptors and preventing the release of acetylcholine from cholinergic nerve terminals.