Overview
Diarrhea is the passage of loose and watery stools. It is a common symptom, and usually resolves within a few days. However, sometimes it may last for a longer period of time, indicating some serious underlying illness.
Causes
Since diarrhea is a very common symptom, it can be caused by a range of different reasons. Some of those reasons are listed below:
- Bacterial infection
- Viral infection
- Parasitic infection
- Medications
- Lactose intolerance
- Fructose intolerance
- Artificial sweeteners
- Celiac disease
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Abdominal surgery
Symptoms
Diarrhea is a symptom in itself, but there are a few other symptoms that may be associated with this disease:
- Loose, watery stools
- Abdominal cramps
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Blood in the stool
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Urgent need to have a bowel movement
Diagnosis
For diagnosing the underlying cause of the this health condition, some of the following tests and procedures can be conducted:
- Blood test
- Stool test
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy
- Colonoscopy
- Endoscopy
Treatment
Treatment of this disease is very simple since most cases resolve on their own in a few days without treatment. Fluid replacement and antibiotics are adequate treatment for when the diarrhea is more severe.
