Diarrhea: Fast Facts
Reviewed By:
David Friedel, M.D., AGA
- Diarrhea is a medical term used to describe an increase in the fluidity or volume of stool or the frequency of bowel movements.
- Diarrhea is usually described as loose, watery stools.
- People with diarrhea may also experience abdominal pain, abdominal cramping, fever, nausea or blood in the stool.
- Diarrhea is a common problem that usually lasts a few days and typically does not require treatment.
- Diarrhea can become life-threatening when it causes severe dehydration.
- Different processes in the body may promote diarrhea, including a failure of the intestines to absorb adequate nutrients and fluids during digestion, the release of too much fluid into the digestive tract or complications as the result of intestinal disorders.
- Diarrhea can be short-term or long-term, with each type ranging widely in severity.
- Acute diarrhea can be defined as lasting less than four weeks, chronic diarrhea as lasting more than four weeks.
- The most common cause of acute diarrhea is a viral infection or bacteria or parasites consumed through contaminated food or water.
- Chronic diarrhea may indicate a more serious problem, such as irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease.
- Diarrhea can also be a side effect of many medications, especially antibiotics.
- Caffeine, alcohol, artificial sweeteners and dairy products may also cause diarrhea.
- Because diarrhea is a symptom of other problems, treatment options will depend on what is causing the diarrhea.
- In people with a viral infection, the diarrhea is usually left untreated and resolves itself within a few days.
- When the diarrhea is caused by certain foodborne bacteria or parasites, antibiotics may be required to treat the infection.
- For chronic conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome, specific medical treatment may be required.
- The symptoms of diarrhea can sometimes be relieved with over-the-counter and prescription medications.
- Some antidiarrheals may interfere with other medications or prolong any infection that might be the cause of the diarrhea.
- If you are dehydrated as a result of diarrhea, lost fluids and electrolytes will need to be replaced.
- Lifestyle changes may help prevent or reduce the severity of diarrhea.
- Certain foods can promote diarrhea, and avoiding them can lessen the severity of diarrhea episodes.
- People with chronic diarrhea may also lessen the frequency of their episodes with dietary changes.
- While traveling, you may want to eat only hot, well-cooked foods and drink only bottled water to avoid contaminated food or water that may cause diarrhea.
- Good hygiene can also help prevent the spread of diarrhea caused by bacteria or viruses.
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