The passage of unusually loose or watery stools, typically occurring more frequently than is normal for the individual.
Diarrhea occurs when stool contains excessive water or moves through the intestines too quickly for sufficient water to be absorbed. Causes include infections, medications, food intolerance, inflammatory bowel diseases, and other conditions.
Acute diarrhea often develops suddenly and lasts for a relatively short period, whereas persistent or chronic diarrhea can have many different causes and may require medical evaluation. Significant diarrhea can cause dehydration and electrolyte abnormalities.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
- Dysentery: diarrhea accompanied by blood and often mucus, usually associated with inflammation of the intestine.
- Loose stool: a single or occasional loose bowel movement does not necessarily meet the usual clinical definition of diarrhea.
SEE ALSO
