Diareea

Diareea is the Romanian term for diarrhea, a common medical symptom defined by the passage of loose or watery stools at increased frequency. It is usually classified as acute when it lasts a short time and chronic when it persists for several weeks or longer.

Most cases are acute and resolve within a few days. Symptoms commonly include more frequent stools, loose consistency, a sense of incomplete evacuation, cramps, and urgency. Dehydration can occur, especially in children and older adults, so careful monitoring of fluid intake and signs of dehydration is important.

Causes include infectious agents (viruses are the most common, e.g., norovirus and rotavirus; bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Campylobacter; parasites like Giardia), medications (antibiotics, laxatives), dietary intolerances, inflammatory bowel disease, malabsorption, and travel-related illnesses. Less often, diarrhea may signal other medical conditions.

Diagnosis is usually clinical. Red flags—blood in stool, high fever, dehydration, persistent symptoms beyond a few days, or severe pain—may warrant laboratory tests such as stool studies, stool cultures, or blood tests. In cases of ongoing or unexplained diarrhea, further evaluation may be needed to identify underlying causes.

Management centers on rehydration and supportive care. Oral rehydration solutions and continued age-appropriate nutrition are recommended for most individuals. Anti-motility medicines are generally avoided if an infection is suspected. Antibiotics are reserved for specific infections or severe disease and should be guided by a clinician.

Prevention focuses on hygiene and safe water and food practices. Vaccination against rotavirus and other public health measures reduce risk in communities. Diareea underscores the linguistic aspect of diarrhea within Romanian-language medical literature.