Diarrhea

Diarrhea –  Defined as having loose, watery stools three or more times in a single day, or more frequently than what is normal for you. It is a common condition that occurs when the digestive system does not absorb enough fluid or when it produces extra fluid, causing waste to pass through the colon too quickly. It can be accompanied with abdominal distress, urgency, nausea and dehydration signs. If it lasts more than 4 weeks it can be indicative of more serious GI conditions. Diarrhea that is accompanied with fever, blood or pus in stools, severe abdominal or rectal pain needs to be evaluated further.

Common causes of diarrhea:

• Diet- coffee, tea, colas, diet foods, gums or mints that contain poorly absorbed sugars
• Infections
• Drinking contaminated or raw foods and beverages
• Medications – Antibiotics, drugs that contain magnesium products

Following symptoms need urgent evaluation:

• Fever
• Blood in stools
• Pus in stools
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea lasting more than 3 weeks