# Stress Can Cause Diarrhea

> Stress triggers diarrhea through brain-gut connections, experts say.
- Title: Stress Can Cause Diarrhea · Men's Health | Shortify
- Summary: Stress triggers diarrhea through brain-gut connections, experts say. Stress affects bowel habits via brain-gut communication, causing diarrhea in some people.
- Keywords: stress, diarrhea, gut-brain axis, irritable bowel syndrome, cortisol, anxiety, Cause, Men's Health
- Source: Men's Health — https://menshealth.com/health/a73690286/stress-anxiety-diarrhea-causes
- Author: Erica Sweeney
- Published: 2026-10-21T21:06:37+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: stress, diarrhea, gut-brain axis, irritable bowel syndrome, cortisol, anxiety
## What is the Connection Between Stress and Diarrhea?
Stress can cause diarrhea through brain-gut connections, experts say.
## The Brain-Gut Connection
The gut has a second brain that talks to the brain, affecting digestion and stress responses.
## How Stress Affects the Gut
Stress releases cortisol and adrenaline, which can cause diarrhea and disrupt gut bacteria.
## Treating Stress-Related Diarrhea
Address stress causes with over-the-counter meds, probiotics, and avoiding irritants like alcohol.
## When to See a Doctor
Seek medical help if diarrhea persists or includes bloody stool, fever, or severe pain.
## Key takeaway

Stress affects bowel habits via brain-gut communication, causing diarrhea in some people.