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International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders
* About IFFGD
* Our Mission
* Leadership
* Funding
* Ambassadors Program
* History of IFFGD
* Contact Us
* About IFFGD
* Our Mission
* Leadership
* Funding
* Ambassadors Program
* History of IFFGD
* Contact Us
Donate
Main Menu
* GI Disorders
Upper GI Disorders
Functional GI and motility disorders which affect the upper GI tract from the
esophagus to the stomach.
* Achalasia
* Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS)
* Dyspepsia
* Dysphagia
* GERD
* Gastroparesis
* Globus
* Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction
Lower GI Disorders
Functional GI and motility disorders which affect the lower GI tract from the
small intestine/bowel, to the large intestine/bowel or colon, to the rectum.
* Bowel incontinence
* Chronic constipation
* Chronic diarrhea
* Dyssynergic defecation
* Centrally Mediated Abdominal Pain Syndrome
* Hirschsprung’s disease
* Intestinal pseudo-obstruction
* Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Other GI Disorders
Many other disorders can affect the digestive tract, with uniquely
identifying features which differentiate them from functional GI or motility
disorders.
* Abdominal adhesions
* Acute Hepatic Porphyria
* Anal fistulas
* Celiac disease
* Clostridioides Difficile Infection (CDI)
* Congenital sucrase-isomaltase deficiency
* Diverticulosis / diverticulitis
* Eosinophilic gastroenteritis
* Food Allergies
* H. pylori Infection
* Inflammatory bowel disease
* Lactose intolerance
* Malabsorption
* Opioid Induced Constipation
* Radiation therapy injury
* Scleroderma
* Short bowel syndrome
* Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth
* Superior mesenteric artery syndrome
* Vovulus
* Rare diseases
Motility Disorders
Motility is a term used to describe the contraction of the muscles that mix
and propel contents in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
Functional GI Disorders
The term “functional” is generally applied to disorders where the body’s
normal activities is impaired.
Symptoms & Causes
The Digestive System
The Gut Microbiome
FGIMDs & Military Service
Kids & Teens
* GI Disorders
* Upper GI Disorders
* Achalasia
* Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome (CVS)
* Dyspepsia
* Dysphagia
* Gastroparesis
* GERD
* Globus
* Sphincter of Oddi Dysfunction
* Lower GI Disorders
* Bowel Incontinence
* Chronic Constipation
* Chronic Diarrhea
* Dyssynergic Defecation
* Centrally Mediated Abdominal Pain Syndrome (CAPS)
* Hirschsprung’s Disease
* Intestinal Pseudo-obstruction
* Irritable Bowel Syndrome
* Other GI Disorders
* Abdominal Adhesions
* Acute Hepatic Porphyria (AHP)
* Anal Fistulas
* Celiac Disease
* Clostridioides Difficile Infection (CDI)
* Congenital Sucrase-Isomaltase Deficiency (CSID)
* Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis
* Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis
* Food Allergies
* Inflammatory Bowel Disease
* Lactose Intolerance
* Malabsorption
* Opioid Induced Constipation
* Radiation Therapy Injury
* Scleroderma
* Short Bowel Syndrome
* Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
* Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome
* Volvulus
* Rare Diseases
* Symptoms & Causes
* The Digestive System
* The Human Gut Microbiome
* FGIMDs & Military Service
* Kids & Teens
* Manage Your Health
* Your Healthcare Team
* Working With Your Healthcare Provider
* Healthcare Provider-Patient Communication
* How to Help Your HCP Help You
* Helpful Insights from a GI Doctor
* GI Motility Testing: A Comprehensive Guide
* Antroduodenal Manometry
* Colon Manometry: 6 Common Questions
* Hydrogen Breath Tests
* Upper GI Endoscopy
* Colonoscopies
* Diet & Treatment Overview
* Antacids
* Calcium in Non-Dairy Foods
* Chlorophyllin: Is it Effective Odor Control?
* Dietary Fiber
* NSAIDs: Good for the Joints, Bad for the Gut?
* Could Probiotics Help Alleviate your Functional Gastrointestinal
Symptoms?
* Use of Probiotics in Managing Gastrointestinal Symptoms
* Tips to Help Find a Credible Probiotic Product
* Probiotics and Traveller’s Diarrhea
* Relaxation For Digestive Disorders: Top 10 Behaviors
* Getting the Most Out of Your Medications
* A Guide to Managing the Benefits and Risks of Medicines
* Be an Active Member of Your Healthcare Team
* Avoiding Drug Adverse Effects
* Medications that can Affect Colonic Function
* FGIDs, Microbes, and Brain-Gut Interactions
* Personal Stories
* Tips & Daily Living with GI and Motility Disorders
* Digital Health Technology for Improving FGIDs
* Personal Relationships and Digestive Disorders
* Enjoying the Holidays with Digestive Disorders
* Exercise & GI Symptoms
* Health Reporting in the Media: What to Believe?
* Evaluating Health Information Online: A Quick Guide to a Trustworthy
Source
* Qualifying for Social Security Benefits with a GI Disorder
* Traveling with your GI Disorder: TSA Information
* Resources
* Publications Library
* En Español
* Diarrea
* Diarrea Funcional
* respondes-con-el-intestino
* Incontinencia Fecal y la Edad
* Diverticulosis y Diverticulitis
* Viviendo y Sobrellevando la Incontinencia
* Manejo y Tratamiento Medico de la Incontinencia
* Gas
* Cambios en el Control de los Esfínteres por el Parto
* Como Hablar con tu Medico Acerca de la Incontinencia
* Biofeedback, incontinencia, y la perspectiva del paciente.
* Tratamiento la Dispepsia Funcional: Cuáles son sus opciones?
* Constipación, inercia colónica y estudios con marcadores colónicos
* Estrenimiento
* Reporter’s Guides
* Dietitians Listing
* Survey Corner
* IFFGD FREE eNewsletters
* Digestive Health Monthly eNewsletter
* Advocacy Connection Newsletter
* 30th Anniversary Digestive Health Matters
* Links
* Support Groups: Getting the Help You Need
* IFFGD Websites
* Other Nonprofits That Can Help
* Government Institutions
* Professional Nonprofit Organizations
* Educational Organizations
* Restaurant and Restroom Access Cards
* DDH Chat
* Clinical Corner – FAQs
* Medical Definitions
* Books of Interest
* News
* Advocacy
* Medical and Treatment
* Events
* Press Release
* For Media
* Norton Education Series
* 2023 NES: Gut Microbiome
* 2022 NES Irritable Bowel Syndrome Event
* 2022 NES: IBS Sponsors and Exhibitors Hall
* 2021 NES IFFGD 30th Anniversary Event
* 2021 NES: Industry Sponsors & Exhibitors Hall
* 2021 NES IFFGD 30th Anniversary Event – Pediatric Edition
* 2020 NES Michigan Speakers
* 2020 NES Education Program
* Research
* 2024 IFFGD Research Grant
* 2024 IFFGD Preceptorship Award
* Community Research
* Research Awards
* 2020 Award Recipients
* Kyle Staller, MD
* Christopher V. Almario, MD
* Maria Raffaella Barbaro, PhD
* 2019 Award Recipients
* 2019 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Arpana Gupta, PhD
* 2019 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Ilan Koppen, MD, PhD
* 2019 IFFGD Research Award Recipient David Levinthal, MD, PhD
* 2018 Award Recipients
* 2018 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Katja Kovacic, MD
* 2018 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Ans Pauwels, PhD
* 2018 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Cristina Martinez, PhD
* 2018 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Amaranath Karunanayake, PhD
* 2013 Award Recipients
* 2013 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Gary Mawe, PhD
* Report from Lukas Van Oudenhove, PhD: Solving the Biopsychosocial
Puzzle in Functional Dyspepsia
* 2013 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Jan Tack, MD, PhD
* 2013 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Muriel Larauche, PhD
* 2013 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Carlo Di Lorenzo, MD
* 2013 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Enrico Corazziari, MD
* 2013 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Ashley Blackshaw, PhD
* 2013 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Dr. Devanarayana, MD
* 2011 IFFGD Research Award Recipients
* 2011 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Samuel Nurko, MD
* 2011 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Adrian Miranda, MD
* 2011 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Million Mulugeta, PhD
* 2011 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Shaman Rajindrajith, MD
* 2011 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Sudarshan Jadcherla, MD
* 2009 IFFGD Research Award Recipients
* Report from Martin Storr, MD, PhD: Functional Gastrointestinal
Disorders: New Insights in Enteric Regulation
* 2009 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Satish Rao, MD
* 2009 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Emeran Mayer, MD
* 2009 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Javier Santos, MD
* Report From Miguel Saps, MD: Functional Abdominal Pain in Children and
Adolescents
* 2007 Award Recipients
* Report from Fernando Azpiroz, MD, PhD: Understanding Intestinal Gas
* Report from Sylvie Bradesi, PhD: Role of the Central Immune System in
Functional Disorders
* Report from Magnus Simrén, MD, PhD: Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Searching
for Underlying Causes
* Report from Brennan M. R. Spiegel, MD, MSHS: Diagnostic Testing in
Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Theory vs. Reality
* Report from Miranda A. L. Van Tilburg, PhD: Home Based Guided Imagery
to Treat Pediatric Functional Abdominal Pain
* 2007 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Paul E. Hyman, MD
* Report from Bruce D. Naliboff, PhD: Symptom Based Psychology for
Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders
* 2005 IFFGD Research Awards Recipients
* Report from Rachel Rosen, MD, MPH: Symptoms Arising from Non-Acid
Reflux in Children
* Report from Yvette Tache, PhD: Stress and Irritable Bowel Syndrome:
Unraveling the Code
* Treatment-Resistant Constipation in Children: Dr. Southwell
* Report from Michael A. Pezzone, MD, PhD: Chronic Pelvic Pain and the
Overlap of Pelvic Pain Disorders
* Report from Shaheen Hamdy, MRCP, PhD: Adult Neurogenic Dysphagia —
Disorders and Conditions that Disrupt Swallowing
* 2003 IFFGD Research Award Recipients
* Report from William E. Whitehead, PhD: Summary of Clinical Research
Activities
* Report from Caroline Elder Danda, PhD: Biopsychosocial Perspectives on
Assessment and Treatment
* Report from Klaus Bielefeldt, MD, PhD: Understanding Pain and
Discomfort in Functional GI Disorders
* Report from Dan L. Dumitrascu, MD, PhD: The Psychosocial Adjustment to
Illness in Irritable Bowel Syndrome- 2003
* Report from Terry Buchmiller, MD: Using the Fetal Gastrointestinal
Tract to Overcome Neonatal Disease
* Research Grants
* IFFGD Competitive Grants
* IFFGD’s 2023 Research Grant
* 2023 Recipient of the IFFGD Research Grant: Dr. Will Takakura
* 2022 IFFGD Research Grant
* 2022 Recipient of IFFGD Grant for Research the Role of Androgens in
IBS Pathophysiology Dr. Judy Nee
* 2014 IFFGD Idiopathic Gastroparesis Research Grants
* 2014 Recipient of IFFGD Grant for Research of Idiopathic
Gastroparesis Leo K. Cheng, PhD
* 2014 Recipient of IFFGD Grant for Research of Idiopathic
Gastroparesis Braden Kuo, MD, MSc
* 2014 Recipient of IFFGD Grant for Research of Idiopathic
Gastroparesis Richard W. McCallum, MD
* 2008 IFFGD Research Grants
* Noncompetitive Grants
* Other Research Grant Opportunities
* IFFGD Travel Awards
* 2024 IFFGD Travel Awards
* IFFGD’s 2023 Travel Awards
* Funding Research
* Need for Funding Research
* How to Make a Difference
* The State of Research at NIH & NIDDK
* Clinical Trials and Studies
* Guide to Randomized Clinical Trials
* Get involved
* IFFGD’S 2024 Advocacy Event
* IFFGD’s 2024 Virtual Digestive Health Wellness & Walk Event: A Unique
Charitable Event with Achievable Goals for All
* IFFGD’s Virtual Health & Wellness Events
* IFFGD’s 2023 Virtual Digestive Health Wellness and Walk Event: A Unique
Charitable Event with Achievable Goals for All
* IFFGD’s 2022 Virtual Digestive Health Wellness Event
* IFFGD’s 2021 Virtual Walk
* Art of GI – Inspiration from the Heart of Patients
* 2021 IFFGD Ally Award
* Advocate for Digestive Health
* Legislative Agenda
* FGIMD Act (Functional Gastrointestinal and Motility Disorders Research
Enhancement Act)
* GI Issues and Military Personnel
* Advocacy Education
* Agencies in Washington
* CDC
* U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
* Engage With FDA
* NIH
* The Language of Washington
* Alphabet Soup
* Congressional Bill
* Capitol Hill Advocacy Day
* Advocate Training Materials
* IFFGD’s 2023 Advocacy Event
* IFFGDs Education and Advocacy Event 2022
* Virtual Advocacy Day 2021
* Advocacy Event 2020
* Advocacy Event Speakers
* Education Program
* Advocacy Day 2019
* Virtual Advocacy Day 2018
* Virtual Advocacy Day 2017
* Virtual Advocacy Day 2016
* Virtual Advocacy Day 2015
* Advocacy Day 2014
* Advocacy Day 2013
* Advocacy Day 2012
* Advocacy Day 2011
* Advocacy Day 2010
* Take Action in Washington
* Make Your Voice Heard for Digestive Health
* Advocates in Action
* IFFGD in Washington
* Legislative Issues
* Raising Awareness: Empower Change
* Awareness Months
* GERD Awareness Week
* April is IBS Awareness Month
* Gastroparesis Awareness Month
* Start a Fundraiser
* Stay Connected
* Join IFFGDs Patient Panel
* Other Ways to Get Involved with IFFGD
* Donate to IFFGD
* About IFFGD
* Contact Us
* Donate
Menu
* GI Disorders
* Upper GI Disorders
* Achalasia
* Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome (CVS)
* Dyspepsia
* Dysphagia
* Gastroparesis
* GERD
* Globus
* Sphincter of Oddi Dysfunction
* Lower GI Disorders
* Bowel Incontinence
* Chronic Constipation
* Chronic Diarrhea
* Dyssynergic Defecation
* Centrally Mediated Abdominal Pain Syndrome (CAPS)
* Hirschsprung’s Disease
* Intestinal Pseudo-obstruction
* Irritable Bowel Syndrome
* Other GI Disorders
* Abdominal Adhesions
* Acute Hepatic Porphyria (AHP)
* Anal Fistulas
* Celiac Disease
* Clostridioides Difficile Infection (CDI)
* Congenital Sucrase-Isomaltase Deficiency (CSID)
* Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis
* Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis
* Food Allergies
* Inflammatory Bowel Disease
* Lactose Intolerance
* Malabsorption
* Opioid Induced Constipation
* Radiation Therapy Injury
* Scleroderma
* Short Bowel Syndrome
* Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
* Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome
* Volvulus
* Rare Diseases
* Symptoms & Causes
* The Digestive System
* The Human Gut Microbiome
* FGIMDs & Military Service
* Kids & Teens
* Manage Your Health
* Your Healthcare Team
* Working With Your Healthcare Provider
* Healthcare Provider-Patient Communication
* How to Help Your HCP Help You
* Helpful Insights from a GI Doctor
* GI Motility Testing: A Comprehensive Guide
* Antroduodenal Manometry
* Colon Manometry: 6 Common Questions
* Hydrogen Breath Tests
* Upper GI Endoscopy
* Colonoscopies
* Diet & Treatment Overview
* Antacids
* Calcium in Non-Dairy Foods
* Chlorophyllin: Is it Effective Odor Control?
* Dietary Fiber
* NSAIDs: Good for the Joints, Bad for the Gut?
* Could Probiotics Help Alleviate your Functional Gastrointestinal
Symptoms?
* Use of Probiotics in Managing Gastrointestinal Symptoms
* Tips to Help Find a Credible Probiotic Product
* Probiotics and Traveller’s Diarrhea
* Relaxation For Digestive Disorders: Top 10 Behaviors
* Getting the Most Out of Your Medications
* A Guide to Managing the Benefits and Risks of Medicines
* Be an Active Member of Your Healthcare Team
* Avoiding Drug Adverse Effects
* Medications that can Affect Colonic Function
* FGIDs, Microbes, and Brain-Gut Interactions
* Personal Stories
* Tips & Daily Living with GI and Motility Disorders
* Digital Health Technology for Improving FGIDs
* Personal Relationships and Digestive Disorders
* Enjoying the Holidays with Digestive Disorders
* Exercise & GI Symptoms
* Health Reporting in the Media: What to Believe?
* Evaluating Health Information Online: A Quick Guide to a Trustworthy
Source
* Qualifying for Social Security Benefits with a GI Disorder
* Traveling with your GI Disorder: TSA Information
* Resources
* Publications Library
* En Español
* Diarrea
* Diarrea Funcional
* respondes-con-el-intestino
* Incontinencia Fecal y la Edad
* Diverticulosis y Diverticulitis
* Viviendo y Sobrellevando la Incontinencia
* Manejo y Tratamiento Medico de la Incontinencia
* Gas
* Cambios en el Control de los Esfínteres por el Parto
* Como Hablar con tu Medico Acerca de la Incontinencia
* Biofeedback, incontinencia, y la perspectiva del paciente.
* Tratamiento la Dispepsia Funcional: Cuáles son sus opciones?
* Constipación, inercia colónica y estudios con marcadores colónicos
* Estrenimiento
* Reporter’s Guides
* Dietitians Listing
* Survey Corner
* IFFGD FREE eNewsletters
* Digestive Health Monthly eNewsletter
* Advocacy Connection Newsletter
* 30th Anniversary Digestive Health Matters
* Links
* Support Groups: Getting the Help You Need
* IFFGD Websites
* Other Nonprofits That Can Help
* Government Institutions
* Professional Nonprofit Organizations
* Educational Organizations
* Restaurant and Restroom Access Cards
* DDH Chat
* Clinical Corner – FAQs
* Medical Definitions
* Books of Interest
* News
* Advocacy
* Medical and Treatment
* Events
* Press Release
* For Media
* Norton Education Series
* 2023 NES: Gut Microbiome
* 2022 NES Irritable Bowel Syndrome Event
* 2022 NES: IBS Sponsors and Exhibitors Hall
* 2021 NES IFFGD 30th Anniversary Event
* 2021 NES: Industry Sponsors & Exhibitors Hall
* 2021 NES IFFGD 30th Anniversary Event – Pediatric Edition
* 2020 NES Michigan Speakers
* 2020 NES Education Program
* Research
* 2024 IFFGD Research Grant
* 2024 IFFGD Preceptorship Award
* Community Research
* Research Awards
* 2020 Award Recipients
* Kyle Staller, MD
* Christopher V. Almario, MD
* Maria Raffaella Barbaro, PhD
* 2019 Award Recipients
* 2019 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Arpana Gupta, PhD
* 2019 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Ilan Koppen, MD, PhD
* 2019 IFFGD Research Award Recipient David Levinthal, MD, PhD
* 2018 Award Recipients
* 2018 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Katja Kovacic, MD
* 2018 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Ans Pauwels, PhD
* 2018 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Cristina Martinez, PhD
* 2018 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Amaranath Karunanayake, PhD
* 2013 Award Recipients
* 2013 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Gary Mawe, PhD
* Report from Lukas Van Oudenhove, PhD: Solving the Biopsychosocial
Puzzle in Functional Dyspepsia
* 2013 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Jan Tack, MD, PhD
* 2013 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Muriel Larauche, PhD
* 2013 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Carlo Di Lorenzo, MD
* 2013 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Enrico Corazziari, MD
* 2013 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Ashley Blackshaw, PhD
* 2013 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Dr. Devanarayana, MD
* 2011 IFFGD Research Award Recipients
* 2011 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Samuel Nurko, MD
* 2011 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Adrian Miranda, MD
* 2011 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Million Mulugeta, PhD
* 2011 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Shaman Rajindrajith, MD
* 2011 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Sudarshan Jadcherla, MD
* 2009 IFFGD Research Award Recipients
* Report from Martin Storr, MD, PhD: Functional Gastrointestinal
Disorders: New Insights in Enteric Regulation
* 2009 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Satish Rao, MD
* 2009 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Emeran Mayer, MD
* 2009 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Javier Santos, MD
* Report From Miguel Saps, MD: Functional Abdominal Pain in Children and
Adolescents
* 2007 Award Recipients
* Report from Fernando Azpiroz, MD, PhD: Understanding Intestinal Gas
* Report from Sylvie Bradesi, PhD: Role of the Central Immune System in
Functional Disorders
* Report from Magnus Simrén, MD, PhD: Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Searching
for Underlying Causes
* Report from Brennan M. R. Spiegel, MD, MSHS: Diagnostic Testing in
Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Theory vs. Reality
* Report from Miranda A. L. Van Tilburg, PhD: Home Based Guided Imagery
to Treat Pediatric Functional Abdominal Pain
* 2007 IFFGD Research Award Recipient Paul E. Hyman, MD
* Report from Bruce D. Naliboff, PhD: Symptom Based Psychology for
Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders
* 2005 IFFGD Research Awards Recipients
* Report from Rachel Rosen, MD, MPH: Symptoms Arising from Non-Acid
Reflux in Children
* Report from Yvette Tache, PhD: Stress and Irritable Bowel Syndrome:
Unraveling the Code
* Treatment-Resistant Constipation in Children: Dr. Southwell
* Report from Michael A. Pezzone, MD, PhD: Chronic Pelvic Pain and the
Overlap of Pelvic Pain Disorders
* Report from Shaheen Hamdy, MRCP, PhD: Adult Neurogenic Dysphagia —
Disorders and Conditions that Disrupt Swallowing
* 2003 IFFGD Research Award Recipients
* Report from William E. Whitehead, PhD: Summary of Clinical Research
Activities
* Report from Caroline Elder Danda, PhD: Biopsychosocial Perspectives on
Assessment and Treatment
* Report from Klaus Bielefeldt, MD, PhD: Understanding Pain and
Discomfort in Functional GI Disorders
* Report from Dan L. Dumitrascu, MD, PhD: The Psychosocial Adjustment to
Illness in Irritable Bowel Syndrome- 2003
* Report from Terry Buchmiller, MD: Using the Fetal Gastrointestinal
Tract to Overcome Neonatal Disease
* Research Grants
* IFFGD Competitive Grants
* IFFGD’s 2023 Research Grant
* 2023 Recipient of the IFFGD Research Grant: Dr. Will Takakura
* 2022 IFFGD Research Grant
* 2022 Recipient of IFFGD Grant for Research the Role of Androgens in
IBS Pathophysiology Dr. Judy Nee
* 2014 IFFGD Idiopathic Gastroparesis Research Grants
* 2014 Recipient of IFFGD Grant for Research of Idiopathic
Gastroparesis Leo K. Cheng, PhD
* 2014 Recipient of IFFGD Grant for Research of Idiopathic
Gastroparesis Braden Kuo, MD, MSc
* 2014 Recipient of IFFGD Grant for Research of Idiopathic
Gastroparesis Richard W. McCallum, MD
* 2008 IFFGD Research Grants
* Noncompetitive Grants
* Other Research Grant Opportunities
* IFFGD Travel Awards
* 2024 IFFGD Travel Awards
* IFFGD’s 2023 Travel Awards
* Funding Research
* Need for Funding Research
* How to Make a Difference
* The State of Research at NIH & NIDDK
* Clinical Trials and Studies
* Guide to Randomized Clinical Trials
* Get involved
* IFFGD’S 2024 Advocacy Event
* IFFGD’s 2024 Virtual Digestive Health Wellness & Walk Event: A Unique
Charitable Event with Achievable Goals for All
* IFFGD’s Virtual Health & Wellness Events
* IFFGD’s 2023 Virtual Digestive Health Wellness and Walk Event: A Unique
Charitable Event with Achievable Goals for All
* IFFGD’s 2022 Virtual Digestive Health Wellness Event
* IFFGD’s 2021 Virtual Walk
* Art of GI – Inspiration from the Heart of Patients
* 2021 IFFGD Ally Award
* Advocate for Digestive Health
* Legislative Agenda
* FGIMD Act (Functional Gastrointestinal and Motility Disorders Research
Enhancement Act)
* GI Issues and Military Personnel
* Advocacy Education
* Agencies in Washington
* CDC
* U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
* Engage With FDA
* NIH
* The Language of Washington
* Alphabet Soup
* Congressional Bill
* Capitol Hill Advocacy Day
* Advocate Training Materials
* IFFGD’s 2023 Advocacy Event
* IFFGDs Education and Advocacy Event 2022
* Virtual Advocacy Day 2021
* Advocacy Event 2020
* Advocacy Event Speakers
* Education Program
* Advocacy Day 2019
* Virtual Advocacy Day 2018
* Virtual Advocacy Day 2017
* Virtual Advocacy Day 2016
* Virtual Advocacy Day 2015
* Advocacy Day 2014
* Advocacy Day 2013
* Advocacy Day 2012
* Advocacy Day 2011
* Advocacy Day 2010
* Take Action in Washington
* Make Your Voice Heard for Digestive Health
* Advocates in Action
* IFFGD in Washington
* Legislative Issues
* Raising Awareness: Empower Change
* Awareness Months
* GERD Awareness Week
* April is IBS Awareness Month
* Gastroparesis Awareness Month
* Start a Fundraiser
* Stay Connected
* Join IFFGDs Patient Panel
* Other Ways to Get Involved with IFFGD
* Donate to IFFGD
* About IFFGD
* Contact Us
* Donate
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Home » GI Disorders » Lower GI Disorders
UNDERSTANDING CHRONIC OR FUNCTIONAL DIARRHEA
WHAT IS DIARRHEA?
Diarrhea is defined as passing frequent and/or loose or watery stools. Acute
diarrhea goes away in a few weeks, and becomes chronic when it lasts longer than
3–4 weeks. If no specific cause is found after a thorough investigation and
certain criteria are met, a diagnosis of functional or chronic diarrhea may be
considered.
WHAT ARE FUNCTIONAL BOWEL DISORDERS?
People with functional diarrhea of other functional bowel disorders do not
demonstrate physical or laboratory abnormalities to explain their
gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. One example of a functional bowel disorder is
irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which is estimated to affect approximately
10–15% of all adults.
Learn more about IBS
IS FUNCTIONAL DIARRHEA THE SAME AS IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME?
Individuals with functional diarrhea may represent a subgroup of people with
IBS. People with IBS often report altered bowel habits, including diarrhea
and/or constipation, associated with abdominal pain. Bloating, feeling an urgent
need to use a bathroom, straining, or a sense of incomplete evacuation may also
occur. Many of these symptoms occur in persons with functional diarrhea but the
absence of abdominal pain distinguishes these people from those with IBS.
HOW DO DOCTORS EVALUATE PATIENTS WITH FUNCTIONAL DIARRHEA?
The doctor will begin with asking about your medical history, including use of
medicines and dietary habits, and performing a careful physical examination.
Additional studies such as blood tests and stool analysis may be ordered.
Diagnostic procedures such as colonoscopy or endoscopy may be indicated,
allowing the physician to examine the inner surface of the colon and small
intestine to exclude other causes of chronic diarrhea, such as infections or
inflammation of the colon or small intestinal diseases.
WHY IS THE MEDICAL AND DIETARY HISTORY SO IMPORTANT?
A diagnosis of functional diarrhea is made only after other possible causes,
such as medications and diet induced diarrhea, are excluded. The list of
medications which cause diarrhea is extensive and includes certain antibiotics,
magnesium containing antacids, blood pressure lowering agents (including
beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors), and drugs to control irregular heart beat
(quinidine). All medications, whether prescription or over the counter, should
be brought to the attention of the physician.
Although some people are sensitive to wheat and other related grains (Celiac
disease, gluten enteropathy), true food allergies are rare. However, inability
to completely absorb certain food groups can, if they are eaten in sufficient
quantities, lead to diarrhea in some people. Milk (lactose) intolerance is one
of the more common examples of this.
People with lactose intolerance have low levels of intestinal lactase, the
enzyme required to digest the milk sugar, lactose. The unabsorbed sugar then
passes to the colon where it is broken down by bacteria to produce abdominal gas
(bloating) and diarrhea. Whether a person develops symptoms depends on many
factors including the amount of lactose ingested and the levels of lactase
enzyme in the small intestine.
Treatment involves reducing or eliminating lactose in the diet or using
commercial products that contain the lactase enzyme. Other persons are
intolerant of fructose (found in fruit and fruit juices), sorbitol (plums, pears
and sugarless gum), and caffeine (coffee, tea, many sodas). Dietary elimination
of possible offending agents may resolve symptoms in sensitive persons.
WHAT OTHER FACTORS MAY WORSEN FUNCTIONAL DIARRHEA?
Some people develop diarrhea after undergoing stomach or gallbladder surgery.
The exact mechanisms are unclear, but are thought to involve increased transport
of food through the GI tract or an increase in bile salts delivered to the
colon.
A condition called “runner’s diarrhea” has been described. As the name suggests,
these individuals experience diarrhea during long distance marathons. The cause
is uncertain but may involve alterations of GI motor activity.
WHAT IS THE CAUSE OF FUNCTIONAL DIARRHEA?
Although there is no consensus, one proposed mechanism relates to alterations in
gastrointestinal motility. Contractions of the smooth muscle of the GI tract
regulate movement of food through the small intestine and colon.
People with functional diarrhea may have different motility patterns than do
people without diarrhea. However, the causes of the motility dysfunction and
changes in intestinal fluid absorption leading to firmer stools or to diarrhea
are incompletely understood.
WHAT TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR FUNCTIONAL DIARRHEA?
As the cause of functional diarrhea is unknown, treatment is aimed at symptoms.
Dietary modifications include elimination of various substances known to cause
diarrhea. In addition to lactose, fructose, sorbitol, and caffeine some persons
develop symptoms because they do not completely digest complex carbohydrates
(pasta, beans). These too may be reduced in the diet to see if there is any
improvement.
Some people with IBS and diarrhea may benefit from an increase in dietary fiber.
In contrast, other people benefit from carbohydrate restriction.
For people who do not improve with dietary modifications, antidiarrheal agents
such as loperamide (Imodium) or diphenoxylate (Lomotil) are often effective. All
work by similar mechanisms. In general, these drugs are used under the
supervision of a physician; diphenoxylate requires a doctor’s prescription.
As future research uncovers the mechanisms which underlie functional diarrhea,
more specific therapies will be developed. As with many functional disorders, an
effective physician-patient relationship should enhance the treatment of this
complex problem and promote a better understanding of the dynamics of GI
symptoms.
PATIENT PERSPECTIVE ON CHRONIC DIARRHEA
Listen to a patient perspective on living with chronic diarrhea related to a
gastrointestinal (GI) disorder.
Patient Perspective on Living with Chronic Diarrhea
Source:
Adapted from “Functional Diarrhea- Some Answers to Often Asked Questions”– IFFGD
publication #105 by Arnold Wald, MD, MACG, AGAF, University of Wisconsin School
of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
SHARE THIS PAGE
TOPICS OF THIS ARTICLE
* What is Diarrhea?
* What are Functional Bowel Disorders?
* Is Functional Diarrhea the Same as Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
* How do Doctors Evaluate Patients with Functional Diarrhea?
* Why is the Medical and Dietary History so Important?
* What Other Factors May Worsen Functional Diarrhea?
* What is the Cause of Functional Diarrhea?
* What Treatments are Available for Functional Diarrhea?
* Patient Perspective on Chronic Diarrhea
READ MORE
* Bowel Incontinence
* Understanding Chronic or Functional Diarrhea
* Common Causes of Chronic Diarrhea
* Managing Diarrhea
* Antibiotics & Diarrhea
* Diet Strategies for Managing Chronic Diarrhea
* Diarrhea & Incontinence Caused by Medication
* Chronic Constipation
* Centrally Mediated Abdominal Pain Syndrome (CAPS)
* Common Questions About Centrally Mediated Abdominal Pain Syndrome (CAPS)
* Dyssynergic Defecation: About a Common Cause of Chronic Constipation
* Dyssynergic Defecation: Diagnosis
* Dyssynergic Defecation: Treatment
* Hirschsprung’s Disease
* Intestinal Pseudo-obstruction
* Irritable Bowel Syndrome
* Opioid Induced Constipation
* Managing and Treating Opioid Induced Constipation (OIC)
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International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders
This information is in no way intended to replace the guidance of your doctor.
We advise seeing a physician whenever a health problem arises requiring an
expert’s care.
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