On this page: - What is diarrhea? - What causes diarrhea? - What
other symptoms accompany diarrhea? - When should adults with
diarrhea see a health care provider? - When should children with
diarrhea see a health care provider? - How is the cause of
diarrhea diagnosed? - How is diarrhea treated? - Can diarrhea be
prevented? - Points to Remember - Hope through Research - For
More Information What is diarrhea? Diarrhea is loose, watery
stools. Having diarrhea means passing loose stools three or more
times a day. Acute diarrhea is a common problem that usually
lasts 1 or 2 days and goes away on its own. Diarrhea lasting
more than 2 days may be a sign of a more serious problem.
Chronic diarrhea—diarrhea that lasts at least 4 weeks—may be a
symptom of a chronic disease. Chronic diarrhea symptoms may be
continual or they may come and go. Diarrhea of any duration may
cause dehydration, which means the body lacks enough fluid and
electrolytes—chemicals in salts, including sodium, potassium,
and chloride—to function p