ABSTRACT
Constipation and diarrhea are common presenting complaints in the GI outpatient clinic. The aim of this chapter is to provide a diagnostic and management approach for these symptoms, rather than an exhaustive list of differential diagnoses. Diarrhea is defined as the passage of greater than three loose stools or stool output of greater than 200 g in 24 h. Acute diarrhea is often dealt with in primary care. In the majority of cases, it will be selflimiting but in others, it runs a more chronic course. Patients with chronic diarrhea, as defined by diarrhea lasting longer than 3 weeks, will often require additional investigation in the secondary care setting.
