What is DIARRHEA?

- Diarrhea is an increase in the frequency of bowel movements and the discharge 

  of watery, runny stools.
- Abdominal cramps, nausea and vomiting may accompany diarrhea.

Some causes of DIARRHEA

- Diarrhea occurs when stool is pushed through the intestines before the water it 

  contains can be reabsorbed.
- Some medications (especially antibiotics) may also cause diarrhea.
- Bacteria, parasites and other microbes may cause diarrhea.
- Emotional stress, anxiety, or food intolerance may bring on diarrhea.
- With children, teething or too much fruit juice (particularly grape and apple) may 

  cause diarrhea.
- Different disease states such as irritable bowel syndrome may also cause 

  diarrhea.

Prevention and treatment of DIARRHEA

- Most cases of diarrhea are viral and should clear up within a day or two on their 

  own.
- Dehydration is a serious complication (especially with children and the elderly) 

  and its prevention is very important. Diarrhea causes the body to lose fluids and 

  electrolytes causing dehydration, so oral re-hydration therapy with oral 

  re-hydration products containing electrolytes is important. (Specific products may 

  be recommended by a physician or pharmacist.)