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Diarrhea

Diarrhea

Definition and Facts

Diarrhea is a common digestive condition that causes frequent, loose, or watery stools three or more times a day. It can be classified as acute, persistent, or chronic, with the acute form being the most prevalent. Possible complications include dehydration and malabsorption. Researchers estimate that about 179 million cases occur in the United States each year.

Symptoms

  • frequent, loose or watery stool
  • an urgent need to use the bathroom
  • abdominal cramping
  • loss of control of bowel movements
  • nausea
  • pain in the abdomen

Causes

Causes include infections, food allergies and intolerances, digestive tract problems, and side effects of medicines.

Treatment

In most cases, you can manage this condition with over-the-counter medicines and by replacing lost fluids and electrolytes to prevent dehydration. Doctors may treat some causes with prescription medicines.

Eating, Diet and Nutrition

If you have diarrhea, you may lose your appetite. When your appetite returns, you can go back to eating your normal diet. Parents and caretakers should give children with diarrhea their usual diet and give infants breast milk or formula.

Dr. Kumkum Patel - Dr. Patel

Kumkum Patel MD, MPH

Board-certified Gastroenterologist.
IBS and Motility Specialist

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