Diarrhea

Diarrhea — loose, watery and possibly more-frequent bowel movements — is a common problem. Sometimes, it's the only symptom. At other times, it may be associated with other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain or weight loss.

Diarrhea kills 2.2 million people a year, most of whom are children. It accounts for 4 percent of deaths globally.^[1]

Diarrhea is defined as "abnormally frequent intestinal evacuations with more or less fluid stools".^[2] Severe diarrhea can cause dehydration which is especially dangerous in infants and children. The mainstay of therapy is Oral rehydration therapy and the mainstays of prevention are effective sanitation and hygiene education.

Diarrhea^W