What causes diarrhea and stomach pain?
Jun 20, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
Diarrhea refers to loose or watery stools, and abdominal pain refers to pain in the stomach area. Under normal circumstances, diarrhea and abdominal pain may be caused by factors such as high mental stress, improper diet, irritable bowel syndrome, viral gastroenteritis, or Crohn's disease, and symptomatic treatment such as general care and medication may be needed. It is recommended to keep the abdomen warm in daily life, add or remove clothing according to the weather, and prevent the abdomen from getting chilled.
Diarrhea refers to loose or watery stools, while abdominal pain refers to discomfort in the stomach area. Generally, diarrhea and abdominal pain may be caused by factors such as high mental stress, improper diet, irritable bowel syndrome, viral gastroenteritis, or Crohn's disease. Symptomatic management usually involves general treatments and medications. If symptoms persist, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. High Mental Stress
Long-term mental stress or emotional fluctuations may affect the normal functioning of the nervous system, thereby influencing gastrointestinal motility and secretion, leading to gastrointestinal dysfunction and causing diarrhea and abdominal pain. These symptoms are often accompanied by insomnia and anxiety. It is recommended to maintain a cheerful mood and engage in moderate physical activities, such as walking or jogging, to relieve stress.
2. Improper Diet
Consuming excessive amounts of greasy, spicy, or cold foods may cause diarrhea and abdominal pain. These foods can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, increasing its motility and resulting in diarrhea and abdominal pain, which may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. It is recommended to adjust the diet and avoid excessive intake of irritating foods.
3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder. Patients with IBS have increased sensitivity of the intestines to stimuli, causing strong reactions such as increased motility and secretion even with minor stimulation, leading to diarrhea and abdominal pain. These symptoms may be accompanied by bloating and a feeling of incomplete evacuation after bowel movements. It is recommended to use medications such as mebeverine hydrochloride tablets, alverine citrate capsules, or pinaverium bromide tablets under a doctor's guidance.
4. Viral Gastroenteritis
Viral gastroenteritis is caused by various viruses, such as norovirus and adenovirus. When viruses invade the intestines, they cause inflammation and damage to intestinal cells, resulting in diarrhea and abdominal pain. Viral infection may also cause systemic symptoms such as fever and fatigue. It is recommended to use medications such as ribavirin tablets, chlorpromazine hydrochloride tablets, or dl-scopolamine butylbromide tablets under a doctor's guidance.
5. Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the intestinal immune system abnormally attacks intestinal tissues, causing chronic inflammation that leads to diarrhea and abdominal pain. The inflammation may also be accompanied by symptoms such as anemia, weight loss, and joint pain. It is recommended to follow medical advice to use medications such as mesalazine enteric-coated tablets, sulfasalazine enteric-coated tablets, or dexamethasone acetate tablets to alleviate symptoms.
It is recommended to keep the abdomen warm in daily life, dress appropriately according to the weather, and avoid chilling the abdomen, which may worsen symptoms.
