Diarrhea
Disease Information
In-Depth
What is diarrhea?
Acute (short term) diarrhea is common. Chronic diarrhea, however, can be a sign of something more serious, such as inflammatory bowel disease or irritable bowel syndrome.
- acute: short-term, lasting less than two weeks. Is usually related to bacterial or viral infections. Can also be a result of a food intolerance or reaction to medication.
- chronic: long-term, lasting longer than two weeks. Is usually related to functional disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, celiac sprue or Giardia.
What are the symptoms of diarrhea?
- cramping
- abdominal pain
- bloating
- nausea
- urgent need to use the restroom
- fever
- bloody stools
How do I know if my child is suffering from severe diarrhea?
Call your doctor immediately if your child has:
- abdominal pain
- blood in the stool
- frequent vomiting
- loss of appetite for liquids
- high fever
- dry, sticky mouth
- weight loss
- urinates less frequently (wets fewer than six diapers per day)
- frequent diarrhea
- extreme thirst
- no tears when crying
- depressed fontanelle (soft spot) on your infant's head
