Diarrhea
What is Diarrhea? Diarrhea is more frequent and more liquid bowel movements than normal. Diarrhea often is caused by an infection with bacteria, viruses or a parasite. Bacteria cause diarrhea either by invading the intestine or by producing a toxin that makes the intestine secrete more water. When the diarrhea is caused by food contaminated with bacteria or parasites, people often refer to this as food poisoning. Symptoms of Diarrhea People with diarrhea usually have loose, watery stools. Less commonly, people pass frequent, small amounts of loose stool with mucous and blood. Other symptoms can include: • Abdominal pain and cramping • Vomiting • Fever • Chills • Bloody stools • Lack of bowel control Frequent vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration (abnormally low levels of body water) if too much fluid is lost from the body. Signs of dehydration include: • Dry mouth • Thirst • Dry eyes • Infrequent urination Treatment of Diarrhea • When symptoms ...