ABSTRACT

Diarrhea, a condition of loose, watery stools that occur more than three times in a day, is a common problem that usually lasts a day or two and goes away on its own without any special treatment. Prolonged diarrhea can be a sign of other problems. Diarrhea can cause dehydration, which is particularly dangerous in children and the elderly, and it must be treated promptly to avoid serious health problems. People of all ages can get diarrhea. The average adult has a bout of diarrhea about four times a year.