Just as diabetes can affect other internal organs, it can also cause gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, highlighting the important connection between diabetes and bowel movements. In fact, as many as 75% of diabetes patients report symptoms relating to their GI tract, which can mean anything from ailments of the mouth and esophagus, to the anal and rectal regions. Neuropathy caused by diabetes may affect nerves in the rectum or anal sphincter, both of which can cause diabetes bowel problems. Because the GI tract is not usually associated with diabetes, many patients might not recognize the connection, and will live with the inconvenience and discomfort longer than they have to.

Diabetes and Bowel Problems

Diabetes sufferers who have other symptoms such as vision loss, kidney disease, or nervous system disorders will likely have GI discomfort as well. Symptoms include difficulty in swallowing, early satiety, acid reflux, nausea, and vomiting. …