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Health Information Guide

Diarrhea

Also known as: Loose StoolsWatery StoolFrequent Bowel MovementsThe Runs

Diarrhea is defined as loose, watery stools occurring more than three times per day. It usually lasts a few days and often resolves without treatment. However, persistent diarrhea can lead to dehydration and other complications.

Affects
100% experience acute diarrhea at least once
Source: CDC
Medically reviewed by healthcare professionals
Last updated: January 2025

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns. In case of emergency, call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.

What It Feels Like

Diarrhea symptoms include: • Loose, watery stools • Urgent need to defecate • Abdominal cramps • Bloating • Nausea and vomiting • Fever (in infectious cases) • Dehydration symptoms

Types & Categories

Acute Diarrhea

Sudden onset lasting less than 2 weeks, usually from infection or food.

Chronic Diarrhea

Lasting more than 4 weeks, often from IBS, IBD, or other conditions.

Traveler's Diarrhea

Caused by consuming contaminated food or water while traveling.

Secretory Diarrhea

Large volume of watery stool, caused by bacterial toxins or hormones.

Common Causes

Viral Gastroenteritis

Stomach flu from norovirus, rotavirus, or other viruses.

mild

Food Poisoning

Bacteria or toxins in contaminated food.

moderate

Medications

Antibiotics, antacids with magnesium, and other drugs.

mild

Food Intolerances

Lactose intolerance, gluten sensitivity, or other food sensitivities.

mild

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis causing chronic diarrhea.

moderate

Risk Factors

Poor food hygiene
Travel to developing countries
Antibiotic use
Food intolerances
Immune system problems

Warning Signs & Emergency Symptoms

Warning Signs

  • ⚠️Diarrhea lasting more than 2 days
  • ⚠️Blood in stool
  • ⚠️High fever
  • ⚠️Signs of dehydration
  • ⚠️Severe abdominal pain

🚨 Call 911 For:

  • !Bloody diarrhea
  • !Diarrhea with high fever (above 102°F)
  • !Signs of severe dehydration
  • !Confusion or fainting

Immediate Actions While Waiting for Help

1Stay hydrated with clear fluids
2Use oral rehydration solutions
3Eat bland foods when hungry
4Avoid dairy temporarily

Self-Care & Home Management

Drink plenty of fluids
Use oral rehydration solutions
Eat BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast)
Avoid dairy, caffeine, spicy foods

How Doctors Diagnose This Symptom

1Stool tests
2Blood tests
3Colonoscopy if chronic
4Breath tests for food intolerances
5CT scan if needed

Treatment Options

💊Oral rehydration
💊Antibiotics for bacterial causes
💊Antidiarrheal medications
💊Dietary changes
💊Treat underlying condition

When to See a Doctor

  • Diarrhea lasting more than 2 days
  • Blood in stool
  • High fever
  • Signs of dehydration
  • Chronic diarrhea

Prevention & Lifestyle Changes

Prevention Tips

  • Wash hands frequently
  • Practice food safety
  • Get vaccinated (rotavirus)
  • Avoid questionable food sources
  • Be careful while traveling

Lifestyle Changes

  • Good hand hygiene
  • Safe food handling
  • Travel precautions
  • Probiotic use
  • Identify and avoid food triggers

Related Medical Conditions

Related Symptoms

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I eat when I have diarrhea?

Stick to bland, easy-to-digest foods. The BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) is traditional. Also try plain crackers, boiled potatoes, toast, and clear broths. Avoid dairy, caffeine, spicy foods, and fatty foods until recovered.

How long does diarrhea usually last?

Most acute diarrhea lasts 1-3 days and resolves on its own. See a doctor if it lasts more than 2 days, is accompanied by high fever or bloody stool, or if you show signs of dehydration.

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本内容由医疗专业人士审核,确保准确性和可靠性

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基于证据

所有医疗信息基于同行评审的研究、临床指南和权威医疗机构(如 CDC、WHO、Mayo Clinic)的建议。

定期更新

January 2025

我们定期审查和更新内容,确保反映最新的医学研究和临床实践。

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参考资料

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
  • National Institutes of Health (NIH)
  • Mayo Clinic
  • World Health Organization (WHO)

本网站提供的信息仅供参考,不能替代专业医疗建议、诊断或治疗。如有健康问题,请咨询合格的医疗保健提供者。紧急情况请立即拨打急救电话。

Medical Review Team

Dr. Michael Rodriguez, MD

Internal Medicine Physician

Internal Medicine

Mayo Clinic
MDBoard Certified in Internal Medicine

Dr. Rodriguez is a board-certified internist with expertise in primary care and preventive medicine.

Last Reviewed: January 2025
Content follows AHA/ACC Clinical Guidelines

Remember: In case of a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.

This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.