Please note: This information was current at the time of publication. But medical information is always changing, and some information given here may be out of date. For regularly updated information on a variety of health topics, please visit familydoctor.org, the AAFP patient education website.
Information from Your Family Doctor
Acute Diarrhea in Adults: What You Should Know
Am Fam Physician. 2014 Feb 1;89(3):online.
See related article on acute diarrhea
What is acute diarrhea?
Acute diarrhea is three or more watery or loose stools per day for less than 14 days.
What causes it?
It is most often caused by viruses. It is sometimes caused by bacteria, usually from eating food that is not cooked well or not washed properly.
When do I need to see a doctor for diarrhea?
Diarrhea usually goes away on its own within a week. You should call your doctor if you have any of the following:
Fever (100.4°F or higher)
Bloody diarrhea
More than 10 stools per day or a feeling of always needing to go to the bathroom
Signs of dehydration, including dry mouth, no tears, less need to urinate, or feeling faint
Recent travel outside the country
Pregnancy
Weak immune system (for example, from chemotherapy, uncontrolled diabetes, or HIV)
Recent stay in a hospital
Recent antibiotic use
Symptoms lasting for more than seven days
How is it treated?
The best way to treat diarrhea is to prevent dehydration by drinking fluids and continuing to eat normally. An oral rehydration solution can be made at home using the following recipe: 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 6 teaspoons of sugar, and 1 liter of clean drinking water.
Antibiotics and medicines made to stop diarrhea can help in some cases. Your doctor can decide which treatment is best for you.
How can I prevent it?
Most infections that cause diarrhea are very contagious. The best way to prevent diarrhea is by washing your hands, especially after using the toilet and before touching food.
Where can I get more information?
Your doctor
American College of Gastroenterology
This handout is provided to you by your family doctor and the American Academy of Family Physicians. Other health-related information is available from the AAFP online at http://familydoctor.org.
This information provides a general overview and may not apply to everyone. Talk to your family doctor to find out if this information applies to you and to get more information on this subject.
Copyright © 2014 by the American Academy of Family Physicians.
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