Diarrhea

Updated: 2017-06-13

Overview

Diarrhea is usually caused by a virus or, sometimes, contaminated food. Less frequently, it can be a sign of another disorder, such as inflammatory bowel disease or irritable bowel syndrome.

Symptoms

Symptoms include frequent, loose, watery stools and belly pain.

Treatments

Most cases clear on their own. Some infections may need antibiotics. Severe cases can cause enough dehydration to require IV fluids.