Diseases
diarrhea
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Diarrhea — loose, watery and possibly more-frequent bowel movements — is a common problem. It may be present alone or be associated with other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain or weight loss. Luckily, diarrhea is usually short-lived, lasting no more than a few days.
Symptoms
- abdominal cramps or pain
- nausea
- urgent need to have a bowel movement
- bloating
- mucus in the stool
Causes
- viruses that can cause diarrhea include norwalk virus (also known as norovirus).
- exposure to pathogenic bacteria, such as e. coli or parasites through contaminated food or water, leads to diarrhea.
- many medications, such as antibiotics, can cause diarrhea.
Risk factors
- lactose intolerance.
Diagnosis
- stool test.
- blood test.
- flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is diarrhea?
Diarrhea — loose, watery and possibly more-frequent bowel movements — is a common problem. It may be present alone or be associated with other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain or weight loss. Luckily, diarrhea is usually short-lived, lasting no more than a few days.
What are the symptoms of diarrhea?
abdominal cramps or pain, nausea, urgent need to have a bowel movement, bloating, mucus in the stool
What causes diarrhea?
viruses that can cause diarrhea include norwalk virus (also known as norovirus).; exposure to pathogenic bacteria, such as e. coli or parasites through contaminated food or water, leads to diarrhea.; many medications, such as antibiotics, can cause diarrhea.
Which medicines are used for diarrhea?
bismuth subsalicylate, diphenoxylate-atropine, loperamide, neomycin, nitazoxanide, racecadotril, red yeast rice, tumeric
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