Acute diarrhea

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Acute Diarrhea

Acute diarrhea is a common condition characterized by the sudden onset of loose or liquid stools, typically lasting less than 14 days. It is often self-limiting and resolves without specific treatment.

Pronunciation

The term is pronounced as /əˈkjuːt daɪəˈriːə/.

Etymology

The term "acute" comes from the Latin acutus, meaning "sharp" or "quick", while "diarrhea" is derived from the Greek diarrhoia, meaning "flowing through".

Definition

Acute diarrhea is defined as the abrupt onset of 3 or more loose or liquid stools per day and can last up to 14 days. It is typically caused by a bacterial, viral, or parasitic infection of the gastrointestinal tract.

Causes

The most common causes of acute diarrhea include infections such as Norovirus, Rotavirus, and E. coli. Other causes can include certain medications, such as antibiotics, and food intolerances.

Symptoms

Symptoms of acute diarrhea can include sudden onset of loose or liquid stools, abdominal cramping, bloating, and, in some cases, fever and vomiting. Severe cases can lead to dehydration.

Treatment

Treatment for acute diarrhea typically involves rehydration with oral rehydration salts (ORS). In some cases, anti-diarrheal medications may be used. If the diarrhea is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed.

Related Terms

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