Diarrhea is one of the most frequent complications of
SBS. It can be caused by a number of factors, and is often the result
of a combination of causes. Immediately after extensive intestinal resection,
severe diarrhea results in a substantial loss of fluids and electrolytes
that decreases over time. However, diarrhea can lead to severe dehydration,
a potentially life-threatening condition. Diarrhea can be caused by:
bile salt malabsorption
fat malabsorption
carbohydrate malabsorption
bacterial overgrowth
intestinal inflammation
decreased surface area that causes impaired electrolyte/water
transport.
This information
is provided as a general educational service
and is not intended to recommend any particular treatment plan
or to replace the advice of physicians. It is important that patients
seek and rely on the advice of a healthcare professional
about their individual medical conditions.
