DIARRHEA
Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice
Symptom Definition
- Diarrhea is the sudden
increase in the frequency and looseness of BMs (bowel movements,
stools).
- Mild diarrhea is the
passage of a few loose or mushy BMs.
- Severe diarrhea is the passage of many watery BMs.
General Information
- The majority
of adults with diarrhea of less than two weeks duration have an infectious cause
for their diarrhea, and in most cases the infection is a virus. Other common
causes of acute diarrhea are food poisoning and medications.
- Maintaining good hydration is the cornerstone of treatment of
adults with acute diarrhea. In general, an adult who is alert, feels well, and
who is not thirsty or dizzy - is not dehydrated.
- Antibiotic therapy is only rarely required in the treatment
of acute diarrhea. One type of acute diarrhea that requires antibiotic therapy
is Traveler's Diarrhea.
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Disclaimer: This information
is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is
provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility
for how you choose to use this information.
Adult SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004
David Thompson, M.D. FACEP
Reviewed 8/2004
Revised 8/2003
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