Diarrhoea

Diarrhea (or diarrhoea) usually means more frequent toilet visits and a larger volume of defecation. Diarrhea is characterized by unformed, watery stools and an increased number of bowel movements than usual. It is most often due to gastrointestinal infections, but many other factors can lead to diarrhea. Chronic or recurrent diarrhea can not only affect a person's lifestyle but also lead to nutritional and various other imbalances over time.

Diarrhea can be acute or chronic. Acute diarrhea usually lasts one to two days. Acute diarrhea is often the result of a viral or bacterial infection or, less commonly, food poisoning. Chronic diarrhea refers to diarrhea that lasts at least four weeks. It is usually the result of an intestinal disorder, such as celiac disease and Crohn's disease.