Frothy Diarrhea with Ammonia Odor: Malabsorption Causes & Management
Frothy, ammonia-smelling diarrhea suggests fat/carbohydrate malabsorption. Key etiologies:
- Celiac Disease: Gluten-induced villous atrophy → steatorrhea, weight loss, deficiencies. Treatment: strict gluten-free diet.
- Lactose Intolerance: Lactase deficiency → colonic fermentation → gas, frothy stool, ammonia odor. Treatment: dairy restriction or lactase supplements.
- SIBO: Small bowel bacterial overgrowth → maldigestion, frothy diarrhea. Treatment: antibiotics + dietary modification.
- Pancreatic Insufficiency: Low lipase/amylase → undigested fat/carbs → foul, frothy stool. Treatment: pancreatic enzyme replacement (PERT).
See a gastroenterologist for targeted testing (serology, breath test, fecal elastase, imaging) and tailored therapy.
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