Medically reviewed by Oghenefejiro Okifo | MD, Harvard Medical School | Henry Ford Hospital - Detroit, MI on August 11th, 2023.
Diarrhea is a common digestive issue that most people experience a few times a year. It is characterized by loose, watery stools and can be caused by various factors, including viral infections, food allergies, and certain medications. While diarrhea is usually not serious, it can lead to dehydration if left untreated.
There are three main types of diarrhea:
Acute diarrhea: This is the most common type and usually lasts for a few days. It typically resolves on its own without treatment.
Persistent diarrhea: This type lasts for several weeks, up to a month.
Chronic diarrhea: Lasting longer than a month, chronic diarrhea may indicate a serious underlying health condition and requires medical attention.
The most common cause of diarrhea is a viral infection in the gut, often referred to as "intestinal flu" or "stomach flu." Other causes include:
Food allergies
Intestinal diseases (e.g., Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis)
Bacterial infections (e.g., food poisoning)
Parasitic infections
Reactions to medications (e.g., antibiotics, cancer drugs)
Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
In some cases, diarrhea may follow constipation, particularly in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
In addition to loose, watery stools, people with diarrhea may experience:
Bloating
Nausea and vomiting
Urgent need to have a bowel movement
Incontinence (leaking stool)
Severe diarrhea may cause additional symptoms, such as:
Blood or mucus in the stool
Weight loss
Dehydration (if not drinking enough fluids)
While most cases of diarrhea resolve on their own, there are instances when medical attention is necessary. Seek immediate medical care if you experience:
Blood in your stool
High fever (above 101°F) lasting more than 24 hours
Severe abdominal pain
Signs of dehydration (e.g., dark urine, rapid heartbeat, confusion)
These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition, such as an infection, inflammatory bowel disease, or colon cancer.
Treatment for diarrhea depends on its cause and severity. Mild cases can often be managed at home with over-the-counter medications like bismuth subsalicylate or loperamide. Your doctor may also recommend:
Antibiotics or anti-parasitic drugs to treat infections
Medications for underlying conditions (e.g., IBS, IBD)
Probiotics to restore beneficial gut bacteria
Home remedies and lifestyle changes can also help alleviate symptoms:
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated
Follow the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) to firm up stools
Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and gas-causing foods
Take warm baths to soothe rectal discomfort
To reduce your risk of getting diarrhea, follow these tips:
Wash your hands thoroughly or use hand sanitizer
Get vaccinated against rotavirus and COVID-19
Store and cook food properly
Be cautious with food and water when traveling
In conclusion, diarrhea is a common digestive issue that can be caused by various factors. While most cases resolve on their own, severe or persistent diarrhea may require medical attention. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for diarrhea, you can better manage this condition and prevent complications like dehydration.
For more information on diarrhea and other digestive health topics, visit:
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