Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a bowel condition making those with the condition pass unusually loose stools. Stool passes out of the body through the rectum. If fluids are not absorbed, or if your digestive system produces extra fluids, stools will be loose and watery. Loose stools might be larger than usual. People with diarrhea often have frequent bowel movements and may pass more than a quart of watery stool a day. People who have diarrhea may feel sick to their stomach or be dehydrated. They may also have other symptoms that accompany the condition:
- crampy pain in the abdomen, the area between the chest and the hips
- swelling in the abdomen
- an uncomfortable feeling around the anus
- an urgent need to have a bowel movement
- an inability to control their bowels
- chills
- fever
Anyone can get diarrhea. This common problem can last a day or two or for months or years, depending on the cause. Most people get better on their own, but diarrhea can be serious for babies and older people if lost fluids are not replaced. Many people throughout the world die from diarrhea because of the large volume of water lost and the accompanying loss of salts. People with diarrhoea should ensure that they drink enough fluid and replace salt lost. Normal western diets tend to inclued too much salt. During a bout of diarrhoea patients should take slightly more salt than is usually advised.
Causes of Diarrhea
- bacteria, viruses, or parasites
- medicines such as antibiotics
- foods such as milk
- diseases that affect the stomach, small intestine, or colon, such as Crohn's disease and irritable bowel syndrome
Diarrhea often goes away by itself, but it can be a sign of a more serious problem. You should talk to your doctor if your diarrhea lasts for more than 3 days. You should also call your doctor if you have
- signs of dehydration
- a severe pain in your abdomen or rectum
- a fever of 102°F or higher
- stools that are bloody or black and tarry
