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Diarrhea
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Loose, watery stools, abdominal cramps
Complications	Dehydration, electrolyte imbalance
Onset	Acute or chronic
Duration	Varies
Types	N/A
Causes	Infection, food intolerance, medication
Risks	N/A
Diagnosis	Stool test, colonoscopy, blood test
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Rehydration therapy, antibiotics, dietary changes
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common
Deaths	N/A

Diarrhea is a common medical condition characterized by the frequent passage of loose or watery stools. It can be acute or chronic and is often accompanied by abdominal cramps, bloating, and an urgent need to have a bowel movement.

Causes

Diarrhea can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Infections: Viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections are common causes of diarrhea. Rotavirus, Norovirus, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella are some of the pathogens that can lead to diarrhea.
• Food Intolerance: Intolerance to certain foods, such as lactose intolerance, can cause diarrhea.
• Medications: Some medications, including antibiotics, can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the intestines, leading to diarrhea.
• Digestive Disorders: Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can cause chronic diarrhea.
• Surgery: Certain surgical procedures, especially those involving the stomach or intestines, can result in diarrhea.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of diarrhea is the frequent passage of loose, watery stools. Other symptoms may include:

• Abdominal cramps and pain
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Urgent need to have a bowel movement
• Fever (in cases of infection)

Complications

Diarrhea can lead to several complications, particularly if it is severe or prolonged:

• Dehydration: Loss of fluids and electrolytes can lead to dehydration, which is especially dangerous in young children and the elderly.
• Electrolyte Imbalance: Loss of sodium, potassium, and other electrolytes can cause imbalances that affect bodily functions.
• Malnutrition: Chronic diarrhea can lead to malabsorption of nutrients, resulting in malnutrition.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of diarrhea involves a thorough medical history and physical examination. Additional tests may include:

• Stool Tests: To identify infectious agents or blood in the stool.
• Blood Tests: To check for signs of dehydration or other underlying conditions.
• Colonoscopy: In cases of chronic diarrhea, a colonoscopy may be performed to examine the colon for signs of disease.

Treatment

Treatment of diarrhea depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition:

• Rehydration Therapy: Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are used to replace lost fluids and electrolytes.
• Antibiotics: Prescribed for bacterial infections.
• Antidiarrheal Medications: Such as loperamide, may be used to reduce symptoms.
• Dietary Changes: Avoiding certain foods and following a bland diet can help manage symptoms.

Prevention

Preventive measures for diarrhea include:

• Good Hygiene: Regular handwashing can prevent the spread of infectious agents.
• Safe Food Practices: Proper food handling and cooking can reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.
• Vaccination: Vaccines are available for certain pathogens, such as rotavirus.

See Also

• Gastroenteritis
• Dehydration
• Irritable bowel syndrome

External Links

• World Health Organization - Diarrhoeal Disease