Causes

By Mayo Clinic Staff

If you're having formed bowel movements more often, chances are you've made some change in your lifestyle. For example, you may be eating more whole grains, which raises how much fiber you get in your diet.

More-frequent bowel movements could also be caused by a mild illness that will take care of itself. If there are no other symptoms, you're probably in good health.

Diseases and other conditions that may cause frequent bowel movements and other symptoms include:

  1. Salmonella infection or other infections that may be caused by bacteria.
  2. Rotavirus or infections caused by other viruses.
  3. Giardia infection (giardiasis) or other infections caused by parasites.
  4. Irritable bowel syndrome — a group of symptoms that affect the stomach and intestines.
  5. Antibiotic-associated diarrhea or other problems caused by medicines.
  6. Celiac disease
  7. Crohn's disease — which causes tissues in the digestive tract to become inflamed.
  8. Ulcerative colitis — a disease that causes ulcers and swelling called inflammation in the lining of the large intestine.
  9. Lactose intolerance
  10. Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) also known as overactive thyroid.

Causes shown here are commonly associated with this symptom. Work with your doctor or other health care professional for an accurate diagnosis.

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Oct. 31, 2024

See also

  1. Antibiotic-associated diarrhea
  2. Graves' disease
  3. Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
  4. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  5. Inflammatory bowel disease FAQs
  6. Pituitary tumors
  7. Thyroid disease: Can it affect a person's mood?