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.

Cause

• Usually viral gastroenteritis (viral infection of the stomach and intestines).

See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If

• The vomiting is worse than the diarrhea, see VOMITING.
• Blood present and no diarrhea, see STOOLS, BLOOD IN.

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.

Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2003

See Other Topics:

• Stools, Blood in
• Vomiting

View Alphabetical Categories List