Steatorrhea Treatment in Delhi, India

Several symptoms associated with steatorrhea include

• Abdominal cramps
• Pain
• Bloating along with abdominal swelling as well
• Foul smelling stool
• Black or red-coloured stool
• Diarrhoea
• Patients might complain about gastronomical issues
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Pale faces

Other symptoms of Steatorrhea

• Coughing
• Dark urine
• Frequent infections
• Itchiness
• Sudden weight loss
• Skin and eyes white might appear yellow

Symptoms of Steatorrhea that can be life-threatening

• Bloody stools; the colour of the stool might be red or black
• Concentration problems
• Chest tightness, along with chest pressure and palpitation
• Fever over 102 degrees
• Breathing problems
• Sharp pain in the abdomen that comes on suddenly

In most cases, steatorrhea is temporary and often occurs due to sudden changes in food habits or diet. On the other hand, diseases related intestines, biliary tract, or pancreas are known to cause persistent steatorrhea.

Intestinal causes of Steatorrhea

Some major causes are:

• Gastrointestinal tract infections caused by parasites and bacteria
• Weight loss surgery
• Allergy or sensitivity to gluten or other grains
• Intolerance in digesting food properly

Biliary tract causes of Steatorrhea

• Biliary atresia (underdeveloped biliary ducts)
• Biliary stricture (narrowing the bile duct)
• Cancer in the gallbladder or biliary tracts
• Gallstones

Pancreas-related cause of Steatorrhea

• Deficiency of lipase production
• Genetic disorders such as cystic fibrosis
• Cancer in pancreas
• Pancreatic inflammation

In the primary stage, one can determine steatorrhea by checking the stool. If the stool is floating and smells foul, that might be an indicator of steatorrhea. However, some methods can be adhered to by the doctor while diagnosed. The doctor might use both qualitative and quantitative methods as per the situation

• Qualitative examination: This test measures the number of fat globules in a single sample of stool. In a typical case, the neutral fat globules number should be less than 50, and fatty acid fat globules should be less than 100. Through a microscope, a doctor will complete the counting process.

• Quantitative examination: In this scenario, stool samples must be collected for 2 to 4 days. Each sample needs to be tested to determine the fat amount present in the stool. In a normal scenario, the range should be between 2 to 7 grams within 24 hours. In the case of children, less than one gram is normal within 24 hours.
• D-XYLOSE examination: Absorption of the D-XYLOSE test can be prescribed by a doctor while suspecting malabsorption. This test determines the levels of D-xylose in urine or blood.
• Other examination: Besides the ways mentioned above, doctors might also perform some other tests. Doctors might look for celiac disease in patients who developed symptoms after consuming wheat or other grains.

The treatment procedure often depends upon the severity of the disease. Patients might not need any medical help if the problem is mild. This kind of situation can be treated at home as well. Several home remedies are shared below:

• One should make sure to stay hydrated
• Dietary fibre intake should be limit
• The patient should consume less dietary fat
• One must reduce or quit smoking
• Consumption of alcohol should be limited
• One should intake a well-balanced diet full of vitamins A, E, D

On the other hand, treatment procedures might vary for severe cases 

• Medication for diarrhoea
• Replacement therapy of pancreatic enzyme
• MHC oils

However, in extreme cases, one should visit a doctor without any delay so that doctor can diagnose the actual reason behind steatorrhea.

Studies show steatorrhea is often directed toward other serious health issues. Without proper treatment and diagnosis, one might develop a risk of permanent damage. It is important to adhere to the guidelines properly to lessen complications. Some possible complications associated with steatorrhea are:

• Anaemia
• Children might face growth issues
• Obstruction in the intestine
• Chances of spreading infection

Steatorrhea can be alarming if the patient ignores the symptoms for an extended period. One should keep close track of the symptoms. Usually, steatorrhea is not considered a threatening disorder, but one should visit a doctor in severe cases. Steatorrhea might also be a trigger that indicates other serious diseases.

Reviewed by Dr. Vibhor Pareek, Consultant, Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Endoscopy on 15-Dec-2022.