Person surrounded by toilet paper, symbolizing chronic diarrhea

Chronic Diarrhea: Uncovering the Mystery of Microscopic Colitis

Elliot Brynn in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 3 min read.

"Is microscopic colitis the hidden cause of your persistent digestive issues? Learn about diagnosis, treatment, and when to seek expert help."

Microscopic colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease, is increasingly recognized as a cause of persistent diarrhea. While less known than conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, its prevalence is on the rise, affecting individuals of all ages. Because its symptoms mimic those of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), microscopic colitis often goes undiagnosed, leaving many to suffer unnecessarily.

This article aims to shed light on microscopic colitis, providing a comprehensive overview of its symptoms, diagnostic approaches, and treatment options. We'll explore when to suspect this condition, how it's diagnosed, and what steps you can take to manage it effectively. Whether you're experiencing chronic diarrhea yourself or seeking information for a loved one, this guide offers valuable insights into navigating the complexities of microscopic colitis.

It's crucial to remember that while this article provides informational content, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.

When Should You Suspect Microscopic Colitis?

Person surrounded by toilet paper, symbolizing chronic diarrhea

If you experience persistent, watery diarrhea, especially at night, accompanied by abdominal cramps and potential weight loss, it's essential to consider microscopic colitis. The hallmark of this condition is watery stool consistency, which can sometimes lead to fecal incontinence, significantly impacting your quality of life. Women over 50 are particularly susceptible, but it can affect anyone.

Certain factors can increase your risk of developing microscopic colitis. These include:

Medications: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), Acarbose, Ranitidine, and Ticlopidine.
Autoimmune disorders: Rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid diseases, diabetes, and celiac disease.

If you have these risk factors, it's even more important to discuss your symptoms with a doctor to determine if further investigation is needed.

Seeking Expert Guidance

Navigating the complexities of microscopic colitis requires the expertise of healthcare professionals. If you have questions or concerns about this condition, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor or a gastroenterologist. They can provide personalized advice, accurate diagnosis, and effective treatment strategies to help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

Everything You Need To Know

What exactly is microscopic colitis and why is it important to know about it?

Microscopic colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that's becoming more recognized as a cause of ongoing diarrhea. While it shares symptoms with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), it is distinct and can be diagnosed through specific tests. It's important because, unlike IBS, microscopic colitis involves inflammation in the colon that can be seen under a microscope. This distinction is crucial for proper treatment.

What are the main symptoms of microscopic colitis?

The primary symptom of microscopic colitis is persistent, watery diarrhea, often accompanied by abdominal cramps. Some people might also experience fecal incontinence and weight loss. The specific nature of the diarrhea, especially if it's watery and persistent, is a key indicator that differentiates microscopic colitis from other conditions with similar symptoms, like IBS.

Are there any risk factors that make someone more likely to develop microscopic colitis?

Several factors can increase your risk of developing microscopic colitis. Certain medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been linked to the condition. Additionally, having autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid diseases, diabetes, and celiac disease can also elevate your risk. Recognizing these factors is important for early detection and management.

How is microscopic colitis diagnosed?

Diagnosis of microscopic colitis typically involves a colonoscopy with biopsies. During the colonoscopy, a doctor examines the colon for any visible abnormalities. However, in microscopic colitis, the colon often appears normal to the naked eye. The diagnosis is confirmed by taking small tissue samples (biopsies) and examining them under a microscope to look for specific signs of inflammation. This microscopic examination is essential for distinguishing microscopic colitis from other conditions.

What should I do if I think I might have microscopic colitis?

If you suspect you have microscopic colitis, it's important to consult with your doctor or a gastroenterologist. They can evaluate your symptoms, assess your risk factors, and perform the necessary tests to confirm the diagnosis. Seeking expert guidance ensures you receive the appropriate treatment and management strategies to improve your digestive health and overall quality of life. They may recommend dietary changes or medications.