Osmotic Diarrhoea

Osmotic diarrhoea is characterized by insufficient absorption of effective substances from the intestinal lumen. It may indicate a maldigestion or malabsorption syndrome - e.g. celiac disease - or an intake of substances that are difficult to absorb. Celiac disease, popularly known as sprue, is an intolerance of the small intestine to gluten, a cereal protein made from rye, wheat, barley, oats and spelt, which causes symptoms such as diarrhoea, bloating, nausea, weight loss, anaemia, vitamin and protein deficiency. In childhood, a disturbed function of the small intestine resulting from celiac disease can lead to malnutrition and thus to growth and development disorders. Diarrhoea ceases when no more food is supplied.