Understanding Diarrhea

• What is diarrhea characterized by?

  Frequent passage of loose, watery stools
• Is diarrhea a disease or a symptom?

  It is a symptom, not a disease
• What are the etiological factors of diarrhea?

  • Decreased fluid absorption
  • Increased fluid secretion
  • Motility disturbances
  • Combination of factors
• What are the common causes of diarrhea?

  • Infections: Viruses, Bacteria, Parasites
  • Pathology e.g. IBD