Why do I keep getting stomach pain and loose stools every day?

Experiencing stomach pain along with loose stools every day can be frustrating, uncomfortable, and disruptive to daily life. While this combination is common and often linked to manageable conditions, it should not be ignored—especially if it has been ongoing. Understanding why it's happening is the first step toward feeling better and knowing when to seek help.

Below is a clear, medically grounded overview of the most common reasons people experience daily stomach pain and loose stools, what signs matter most, and what you can do next.

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What Does Daily Stomach Pain With Loose Stools Usually Mean?

Stomach pain paired with loose or watery stools often points to irritation or inflammation in the digestive system. This can involve the stomach, small intestine, or colon. When symptoms occur every day, it suggests something ongoing rather than a one-time illness.

Doctors generally look at:

• How long symptoms have been present
• Where the stomach pain is located
• What makes symptoms better or worse
• Associated symptoms such as weight loss, fever, or blood in stool

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Common Causes of Ongoing Stomach Pain and Loose Stools

1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is one of the most common reasons for daily stomach pain and loose stools.

Typical features include:

• Cramping stomach pain that improves after a bowel movement
• Loose stools, constipation, or alternating between both
• Bloating and gas
• Symptoms triggered by stress or certain foods

IBS does not cause damage to the intestines, but it can significantly affect quality of life. It is often diagnosed after other causes are ruled out.

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2. Food Intolerances and Sensitivities

Some people have trouble digesting certain foods, leading to stomach pain and loose stools.

Common culprits include:

• Lactose (found in dairy)
• Fructose (found in fruits and sweeteners)
• Gluten (for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity)
• High-fat or highly processed foods

Symptoms may occur hours after eating and can happen daily if the food is eaten regularly.

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3. Chronic Stress and the Gut-Brain Connection

The digestive system is closely connected to the nervous system. Ongoing stress or anxiety can lead to:

• Increased gut sensitivity
• Faster movement of food through the intestines
• Recurrent stomach pain and diarrhea

This does not mean symptoms are "all in your head." The pain is real, and the gut is responding to stress signals.

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4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Conditions such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are less common but more serious causes of ongoing stomach pain and loose stools.

Possible signs include:

• Persistent abdominal pain
• Chronic diarrhea
• Blood or mucus in stools
• Fatigue or unintended weight loss

These conditions involve inflammation and require medical treatment. Early diagnosis helps prevent complications.

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5. Chronic Infections or Gut Imbalances

Some infections don't fully resolve or can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gut.

This may happen after:

• Food poisoning
• Travel-related illness
• Repeated antibiotic use

Ongoing loose stools and stomach pain may continue until the imbalance is addressed.

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6. Medication Side Effects

Certain medications can irritate the digestive tract or alter gut movement.

Common examples include:

• Antibiotics
• Metformin
• Magnesium-containing supplements
• Some antidepressants
• Long-term use of pain relievers (such as NSAIDs)

If symptoms began after starting a medication, this is important to discuss with a doctor.

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7. Gallbladder or Pancreatic Issues

Although less common, problems with digestion of fats can cause:

• Upper or right-sided stomach pain
• Loose, greasy, or pale stools
• Symptoms that worsen after eating fatty foods

These conditions should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

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Signs That Deserve Prompt Medical Attention

While many causes of stomach pain and loose stools are manageable, some symptoms should not be ignored.

Speak to a doctor promptly if you notice:

• Blood in your stool or black stools
• Persistent fever
• Unexplained weight loss
• Severe or worsening stomach pain
• Pain that wakes you from sleep
• Signs of dehydration (dizziness, dry mouth, low urine output)

These can signal conditions that may be serious or life-threatening if untreated.

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Helpful Steps You Can Take Now

While waiting to see a doctor, some practical steps may help clarify what's going on:

Track Your Symptoms

Write down:

• When stomach pain occurs
• Stool frequency and consistency
• Foods eaten before symptoms
• Stress levels
• Medications and supplements

This information is extremely helpful for medical evaluation.

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Review Your Diet Gently

Without extreme restriction, consider:

• Eating smaller, regular meals
• Limiting greasy or highly processed foods
• Watching for patterns with dairy, caffeine, or artificial sweeteners

Avoid cutting out entire food groups without guidance.

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Get Personalized Guidance for Your Symptoms

If you're experiencing daily discomfort and want to better understand what might be causing your abdominal pain, a free AI-powered symptom checker can provide you with personalized insights in just a few minutes and help you determine the right next steps for care.

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Why You Should Speak to a Doctor

Daily stomach pain and loose stools are not something you should simply live with. A doctor can:

• Rule out serious conditions
• Order appropriate tests (such as stool tests or blood work)
• Help identify food intolerances
• Provide treatment options that actually work

Early evaluation often leads to simpler solutions and peace of mind.

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The Bottom Line

Ongoing stomach pain with loose stools usually reflects a digestive issue that deserves attention. Common causes include IBS, food intolerances, stress-related gut changes, infections, or inflammatory conditions. Many of these are treatable, but identifying the correct cause is key.

If your symptoms are daily, persistent, or affecting your quality of life—or if there are any warning signs—speak to a doctor as soon as possible. Getting clear answers can help you move from managing symptoms to actually feeling better.