Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a condition where a person has three or more loose or watery bowel movements in a 24-hour period. It is usually caused by an infection in the gastrointestinal tract, but can also be caused by food allergies or sensitivities, certain medications, or even stress. Diarrhea can be acute, lasting only a few days, or it can be chronic and persistent over a longer period of time. Symptoms of diarrhea may include abdominal cramps, bloating, and urgency to have a bowel movement. Treatment for diarrhea usually depends on the cause, but may include dietary modifications, over-the-counter medications, or antibiotics.