Diarrhea Directory
Diarrhea is a loose, watery bowel movement and is not usually a serious problem in the U.S. It can occur due to illness, intestinal problems, food poisoning, and many others factors. It usually goes away on its own, but you should drink plenty of fluids and can take over-the-counter medications to help ease the discomfort. For prolonged cases of diarrhea, medical attention is recommended. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about how diarrhea is contracted, how to treat it, and much more.
Medical Reference
Food Poisoning: What to Know
Learn about the germs, viruses, and parasites that are the biggest causes of food poisoning.
How to Prevent Food Poisoning
Food poisoning is common – and preventable. Learn what foods to be careful with, how to cook and clean, and what to watch for in restaurants and while traveling.
Food Poisoning Treatment: What to Expect
WebMD explains the symptoms and causes of food poisoning - and when you may want to call the doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of Food Poisoning?
Food poisoning can be caused by a variety of bacteria. WebMD explains the symptoms.
Features
Montezuma Still Lives
Steven Peterson was spending his summer as an intern at the Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico.
Diarrhea: Triggers and Treatments
What is starting your chronic diarrhea? How can you treat it? We’ve got the answers you’re looking for.
Is It Really Food Poisoning?
Your upset stomach could be caused by a food intolerance or irritation -- your GI tract and creme brulee simply don't get along.
Bloating 101: Why You Feel Bloated
Bloating and gas are usually tied to what and how you eat, so a few simple changes may ease your discomfort.
Video
What Causes Diarrhea
Learning what the most common triggers are for acute diarrhea is the first step in avoiding this sometimes embarrassing problem.
Avoiding Diarrhea When Traveling
Leading GI specialist and psychiatrist, Dr. Douglas A. Drossman, gives tips on avoiding diarrhea when you travel.
Avoiding Flares from UC
You may not be able to eliminate all flares, but you can take steps to reduce their frequency and impact.
Scoop on Pee and Poop
Get the facts you need on those daily changes in your baby's diaper, step by step.
Slideshows & Images
A Visual Guide to Irritable Bowel Syndrome
WebMD's overview covers IBS symptoms, causes, medicines, and trigger foods, as well as lifestyle tips for managing this disruptive, but common, irritable bowel condition.
Worst Foods for Digestion
Learn which foods can trigger diarrhea and other digestive problems.
Foods With Probiotics
Beyond yogurt, see which foods have a surprising boost from probiotics -- good bacteria that may help tame your digestive problems.
Myths and Facts About Diarrhea
No one wants to get diarrhea -- but if you do get it, learn how to get better, fast. This slideshow separates fact from fiction.