Diarrhea is a digestive condition that causes loose or watery stools. Many people experience diarrhea at some point. These bouts are often acute and resolve in a couple of days with no complications.

Sudden diarrhea can be acute, lasting only a few days, or chronic. Diarrhea that lasts for more than 4 weeks is usually the result of an underlying condition. Most people are familiar with the loose, ...