Osmotic diarrhea occurs if large number of solutes remain in the intestine and water is not properly absorbed. The excess water causes the bowel movements to be loose or appear more liquid.
What are the causes?
It is important to note that osmotic diarrhea develops after eating foods that were not absorbed, but simply draw water into the intestine. The usual ingredients that often cause the condition include:
- Lactose in dairy products
- Some carbohydrates present in fruit juices
- Artificial sweeteners such as saccharine and aspartame
Osmotic diarrhea might also be a side effect of certain drugs and medical treatments such as:
- Antibiotics
The main sign of osmotic diarrhea is loose and watery bowel movements. - Blood pressure drugs
- Chemotherapy
- Laxatives that contain magnesium sulfate, sodium phosphate and magnesium phosphate
- Gallbladder removal
- High-dose radiation therapy
What are the indications?
The main sign of osmotic diarrhea is loose and watery bowel movements.
Other signs that might be present include:
- Bloating
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
In some cases, the symptoms can be severe. A doctor must be seen right away if any of these symptoms are present such as:
- High fever
- Blood-streaked stool
- Pus in the stool
- Dehydration
- Tar-like stools
Management of osmotic diarrhea
Osmotic diarrhea typically lasts for a few days. In most cases, it responds to simple home remedies such as dietary adjustments and over-the-counter medications such as loperamide and bismuth subsalicylate.
There are also changes to the diet that can manage the condition. The doctor will suggest limiting or avoid these foods:
- Sugar
- Lactose-rich foods
- Artificial sweeteners
- Alcohol
- Carbonated beverages
- Caffeinated products
- Legumes such as lentils or beans
- Nuts and seeds
- Vegetables rich in dietary fiber such as Brussels sprouts and broccoli
- Whole wheat or corn products
What is the outlook?
Osmotic diarrhea is usually due to consuming certain foods and typically lasts for only a few days. In most cases, it settles after stopping eating the offending food.
The diarrhea is often managed with over-the-counter drug and changes in the diet. In case it lasts longer than a few days or the symptom are severe, a doctor should be seen.