Diarrhea is a common problem. It refers to excessive and frequent passing loose or watery stools. It may indicate gastrointestinal disease. Accompanying symptoms may include:
* abdominal pain and cramping,
* change in stool color, or
* mucous, pus, blood or fat in the stool.

Brief diarrhea may be caused by an infection, toxins from a bacterial infection, or drugs. Mild diarrhea may occur from an alcohol binge, emotional upset, or certain foods. Travel to new areas may also cause gastrointestinal upset.

Many cases of diarrhea resolve on their own. However a serious complication of diarrhea can be dehydration (loss of body fluid balance). Those at highest risk are infants, children and the elderly. Seek medical attention if diarrhea exceeds fluids taken in, or lasts more than several days. Be especially careful when diarrhea and vomiting occur at the same time.

Drink plenty of liquids to replace lost fluids. With long term diarrhea, electrolytes may become depleted. Mix one quarter teaspoon salt with half strength lemonade or drink Gatorade to replete electrolytes. Resume eating slowly. Eat easily digested foods such as toast, rice, bananas, cooked cereals, or soft boiled eggs until the diarrhea begins to resolve.

Severe or long term diarrhea can indicate certain disorders. Seek medical care if one has:
* recurring bouts of diarrhea,
* bloody stools(either bright red or coffee ground brown) ,
* diarrhea with severe abdominal pain, vomiting or fever, or
* dehydration (dark, scant urine).

To prevent transmission of diarrhea, wash your hands after using the bathroom or changing diapers and before meals.

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