What Causes Alternating Constipation and Diarrhea?

Jun 11, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I’ve been experiencing frequent constipation and diarrhea lately. I’d like to know what causes alternating constipation and diarrhea.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Cheng Yicheng
Alternating constipation and diarrhea may be associated with the following causes: 1. **Colitis**: Patients may experience diarrhea, abdominal pain, mucoid stools, and purulent or bloody stools. In some cases, severe constipation may occur—sometimes lasting several days without a bowel movement—leading to alternating episodes of diarrhea and constipation. 2. **Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)**: Chronic inappropriate dietary habits can disrupt normal intestinal function and cause dysbiosis of the gut microbiota, resulting in alternating constipation and diarrhea.