Q & A
What is diarrhea?
Diarrhea is defined as the passage of three or more loose or liquid stools per day (or more frequent passage than is normal for the individual). Frequent passing of formed stools is not diarrhea, nor is the passing of loose, “pasty” stools by breastfed babies.
Diarrhea is usually a symptom of an infection in the intestinal tract, which can be caused by a variety of bacterial, viral and parasitic organisms. Infection is spread through contaminated food or drinking-water, or from person-to-person as a result of poor hygiene.
What are the symptoms of Diarrhea?
The following are the most common symptoms of diarrhea. However, each child may experience symptoms differently. Severe or chronic diarrhea may indicate a serious disease.
- Cramping
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Urgent need to use the restroom
- Fever
- Bloody stools
- Dehydration
- Incontinence
What are the causes of diarrhea in children?
Diarrhea in children may be caused by a number of conditions, including the following:
- Bacterial infection
- Viral infection
- Food intolerances or allergies
- Parasites
- Reaction to medications
- Intestinal disease, such as inflammatory bowel disease
- Functional bowel disorder, such as irritable bowel syndrome
- Result of surgery on the stomach or gallbladder
Many people suffer “traveler’s diarrhea” caused by a bacterial infection or a parasite, or even food poisoning.
Diarrhea treatment
Most cases of diarrhea clear on their own within a couple of days without treatment. If you’ve tried lifestyle changes and home remedies for diarrhea without success, your doctor might recommend medications or other treatments.
- Antibiotics
- Treatment to replace fluids
- Adjusting medications you’re taking
- Treating underlying conditions
