Skip to main content
Mother Nature AI
DigestiveICD-10: K59.1Causes approximately 179 million cases of acute illness in the U.S. annually

Diarrhea

Also known as: Loose Stools, Runny Stomach, The Runs, Acute Gastroenteritis

Diarrhea is characterized by loose, watery stools occurring three or more times per day, and is one of the most common health complaints worldwide. It can be acute (lasting less than 2 weeks), persistent (2-4 weeks), or chronic (lasting more than 4 weeks), with causes ranging from viral infections to chronic digestive disorders. While most cases resolve on their own, severe or prolonged diarrhea can lead to dangerous dehydration, particularly in young children and older adults.

Symptoms

Loose, watery stools three or more times daily
Abdominal cramps and pain
Bloating and gas
Urgency to have a bowel movement
Nausea and sometimes vomiting
Fever (if caused by infection)
Blood or mucus in the stool (in some cases)
Signs of dehydration: thirst, dry mouth, decreased urine output

Causes

  • Viral infections (norovirus, rotavirus, adenovirus)
  • Bacterial infections (Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter, C. difficile)
  • Parasitic infections (Giardia, Cryptosporidium)
  • Food intolerances such as lactose or fructose intolerance
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis)
  • Medications, especially antibiotics

Risk Factors

  • Travel to developing countries (traveler's diarrhea)
  • Consuming contaminated food or water
  • Weakened immune system
  • Recent antibiotic use disrupting gut microbiome
  • Living in areas with poor sanitation
  • Close contact with infected individuals in daycares or nursing homes

Diagnosis

  • Stool sample analysis for bacteria, viruses, and parasites
  • Blood tests to identify infection or dehydration markers
  • Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy for chronic diarrhea evaluation
  • Hydrogen breath test for lactose or fructose intolerance

Treatment

  • Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) to replace lost fluids and electrolytes
  • Anti-diarrheal medications (loperamide) for symptom relief in non-infectious cases
  • Antibiotics for confirmed bacterial infections
  • Probiotics to restore healthy gut bacteria
  • Dietary modifications: BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) during recovery
  • Intravenous fluids for severe dehydration

Prevention

  • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before eating and after using the bathroom
  • Drink only safe, treated, or bottled water when traveling
  • Cook foods to proper internal temperatures and refrigerate leftovers promptly
  • Avoid raw or undercooked shellfish, meat, and unpasteurized dairy
  • Get vaccinated against rotavirus (for infants)

When to See a Doctor

  • Diarrhea lasts more than 2 days in adults or 24 hours in children
  • You show signs of severe dehydration: extreme thirst, dark urine, dizziness
  • Stools contain blood, pus, or are black and tarry
  • You have a fever above 102°F (39°C) along with diarrhea

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Obesity

Metabolic

Type 2 Diabetes

Endocrine

Anxiety Disorders

Mental Health

Have questions about Diarrhea?

Ask Mother Nature AI for personalized, evidence-based guidance.

Ask about Diarrhea

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Content reviewed against peer-reviewed medical literature and clinical guidelines. Read our editorial standards.