DIARRHEA

What is it?
Diarrhea is defined as an increase in frequency, fluidity and volume of bowel movements. It is usually
loose, watery stools occurring more than three times in one day. It is a common symptom and usually
goes away by itself in a day or so. However, it might also be the first symptom of a more serious
disease, so if it lasts more than a few days, you should see a health care provider.

If it goes away by itself, why should I worry?

Diarrhea can cause dehydration, which means the body doesnt have enough fluid to work properly.
Dehydration is especially dangerous to children and older people, and can cause serious health
problems. But anyone can get diarrhea. The average adult has an episode of diarrhea an average of 4
times a year.

What causes diarrhea?

Diarrhea may be caused by a temporary problem, like an infection, or a chronic problem, like an
intestinal disease. A few of the more common causes of diarrhea are:
bacterial infectionsmaybe through food or water (ex. Salmonella, e. coli)
viral infections
something you ate doesnt agree with youlactose intolerance or other food components
parasitesentering the body through food or water and settling in the digestive tract.
reaction to medicationsuch as antibiotics, blood pressure medications, and antacids
containing magnesium.

How is it treated?
The easiest way to deal with diarrhea is to start with the BRAT diet
B-bananas
R-rice
A-applesauce
T-toast
This means eliminate everything else. Start the BRAT diet slowly, and as the diarrhea improves, and if
you tolerate it, add in any of the following:
Jello
Saltine crackers
Soups with noodles or rice
Baked potato (without butter)
Puddings, custards
Pasta
Eggs (not fried)
Cheese
Chicken
Lean, broiled meats
Avoid:

fried foods, and fatty foods

juices (except apple)
fresh vegetables
salads

spices
pickles
alcohol

Gradually return to a regular diet.

If you have severe diarrhea and vomiting:
no food for 24 hours
then start with ice chips
if you tolerate that, drink frequent small amounts of clear liquids such as coke, ginger ale, 7-up,
broth or weak tea.

When should I see a clinician?

Although usually not harmful, diarrhea can become dangerous or signal a more serious problem. You
should see a clinician if any of the following is true:
You have diarrhea for more than 3 days.
You have severe pain in the abdomen or rectum.
You have a fever of 102 degrees F or higher.
You see blood in your stool or have black, tarry stools.
You have signs of dehydration.
A service of the Klotz Student Health Centers Health Promotion Dept.

For more information,

please call 818 677-3666 or 677-3692 (tty)
www.csun.edu/studenthealthcenter

Rev 2/01, 12/03 AR