Diarrhea is a common problem that many people experience. It is a condition that is characterized by frequent and loose bowel movements. The definition of diarrhea is passing loose, watery stools three or more times a day.

It can be caused by a variety of factors such as bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections, food intolerances, or underlying medical conditions. In this article, we will discuss the signs and symptoms of diarrhea, and what you need to look out for.

1. Frequent Bowel Movements

The most obvious sign of diarrhea is the frequency of bowel movements. Most people experience one to three bowel movements a day. However, when you have diarrhea, you may have more than three bowel movements a day.

This means you have to go to the bathroom more frequently than usual. Each bowel movement will probably also be more urgent and painful than normal.

2. Loose or Watery Stools

Another symptom of diarrhea is having loose, watery stools. The stools may be soft, mushy, or even watery. This happens because the muscles in the intestines push the food along too quickly.

When this happens, the body does not have enough time to absorb the water from the stool, which leads to the watery texture.

3. Abdominal Cramps

Diarrhea can also cause abdominal cramps, which are often described as sharp or stabbing pains in the stomach. The cramps may be mild or severe and can be accompanied by bloating or nausea.

They are caused by the movement of gas and fluid through the intestines, which can irritate the lining of the intestines.

4. Dehydration

One of the most serious symptoms of diarrhea is dehydration. When you have diarrhea, you lose a lot of water and electrolytes, which are essential for your body to function properly. This can lead to dehydration if not managed properly.

Symptoms of dehydration include dry mouth, thirst, dark urine, fatigue, dizziness, and confusion.

5. Fever

In some cases, diarrhea can also be accompanied by a fever. This is a sign that your body is trying to fight off an infection.

If you have a fever along with diarrhea, it is important to stay hydrated and seek medical attention if your symptoms do not improve.

6. Blood in the Stool

Seeing blood in your stool can be alarming. In some cases, diarrhea can cause small amounts of blood to appear in the stool. This is usually a sign of inflammation or irritation in the intestines.

If you see blood in your stool, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

7. Vomiting

Diarrhea can also be accompanied by vomiting. This is a sign that your body is trying to get rid of something that is causing the diarrhea, such as a virus or toxin. It is important to stay hydrated when you are experiencing both vomiting and diarrhea.

8. Fatigue

When you have diarrhea, you may feel tired and fatigued. This is because your body is using a lot of energy to fight off whatever is causing the diarrhea. In addition, dehydration can also cause fatigue.

It is important to rest when you are experiencing diarrhea and to stay hydrated.

9. Loss of Appetite

Diarrhea can also cause a loss of appetite. When you feel sick, it is common to lose your desire to eat. In addition, the cramps and abdominal pain associated with diarrhea can make it difficult to eat.

It is important to stay hydrated when you are experiencing a loss of appetite.

10. Weight Loss

In some cases, diarrhea can cause weight loss. This is because you are losing a lot of fluids and nutrients. If you experience significant weight loss as a result of diarrhea, it is important to seek medical attention.