Diarrhea << `dy` uh REE uh >> is a condition characterized by loose and frequent bowel movements. The stools are usually watery and soft, and may contain mucus, pus, or blood. Nausea, loss of bowel control, and abdominal cramps frequently accompany diarrhea.
Diarrhea is usually a symptom of an intestinal disorder and not a disease itself. The most frequent cause of diarrhea is infection from food or water contaminated by viruses, bacteria, or protozoans. The body usually develops a defense against the invading agent, and diarrhea then disappears. However, diarrhea may become chronic and lead to dehydration, malnutrition, vitamin deficiencies, and a weakened immune system. Such infectious diarrhea is epidemic in many developing countries. Every year, dehydration resulting from infectious diarrhea kills millions of children worldwide. Other causes of diarrhea include colitis (inflammation of the colon) and intestinal cancer. Emotional disturbances, such as nervousness or fear, can also bring on diarrhea.
Treatment of diarrhea consists primarily of replacing lost body fluids and salts. A doctor should be consulted if diarrhea persists for more than a few days, or if it afflicts infants or young children, the elderly, or the severely ill.
