How Does Diarrhea Occur?
Diarrhea Defined
Diarrhea is defined in the medical field as frequent loose or watery bowel movements. People with diarrhea will pass stools three or more times a day and may also suffer from cramping, bloating and bloody stools.
While most cases of diarrhea usually last only two days, chronic (ongoing) or acute (severe and sudden) diarrhea can lead to serious problems, the most common being dehydration. In fact death by dehydration caused by diarrhea is common in many third-world countries.
How Diarrhea Occurs
Acute diarrhea is most often caused by an infection in the intestines. This infection can be bacterial, viral or from a parasite. Chronic, or long-lasting, diarrhea is usually a symptom of another intestinal health problem such as inflammatory bowel disease.
Acute diarrhea can be caused by bacteria found in contaminated food or water which has been consumed by the affected person. This includes E. coli and salmonella. Food and water can also be contaminated by parasites. Common diarrhea-causing parasites include giardia lamblia and entamoeba.
Acute and chronic diarrhea can also be caused by viruses such as the rotavirus (more common in infants) and herpes. In addition some people may develop diarrhea as a reaction to food allergies such as people who are lactose intolerant. Finally, ongoing health issues such as Crohen's disease, cancer or inflammatory bowel disease can cause diarrhea.
Treating Diarrhea
Dehydration is the most serious consequence of diarrhea; treatment usually involves the replacement of lost fluids and electrolytes by either partaking of an oral rehydration drink or, in extreme cases, an IV may be placed. Medication may also be prescribed if the cause of the diarrhea is suspected to be an infection.
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