What is diarrhea?

Diarrhea is a loose, watery bowel movement. It's a common problem that can affect people of all ages. Diarrhea can be caused by a number of things, including:

* Infections: Diarrhea is often caused by infections of the gastrointestinal tract, such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites.

* Medications: Some medications, such as antibiotics, can cause diarrhea.

* Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and celiac disease, can also cause diarrhea.

* Food intolerances: Some people have food intolerances, such as lactose intolerance, that can cause diarrhea.

* Travel: Traveling to a new country or region can increase the risk of developing diarrhea, which is often referred to as "traveler's diarrhea."

Diarrhea can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, and it can also lead to dehydration. If you have diarrhea, it's important to drink plenty of fluids to replace the fluids that are lost through bowel movements. You may also want to avoid certain foods and drinks that can irritate the digestive tract, such as spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol.

In most cases, diarrhea is a self-limited condition that will resolve within a few days. However, if you have severe diarrhea or if it persists for more than 2 days, it's important to see a doctor.