ripuli

Ripuli, commonly known as diarrhea, is the passage of loose or watery stools more often than usual. It is usually defined by a higher stool frequency and reduced stool consistency. Acute ripuli lasts a short time, while chronic ripuli persists for several weeks or more.

Most episodes are self-limited and caused by infections (viral, bacterial, or parasitic), medications (notably antibiotics), or food-related factors such as lactose intolerance or ingestion of sorbitol. Other causes include inflammatory bowel disease, malabsorption, and functional disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome.

Symptoms commonly include frequent loose stools, abdominal cramps, bloating, urgency, and sometimes fever, nausea, or vomiting. Dehydration is a key risk, particularly in infants, older adults, and people with limited access to fluids.

Diagnosis is based on history and physical exam, with red flags (blood in stool, high fever, dehydration, weight loss, persistent symptoms) prompting further testing. Stool studies, including cultures or toxin assays, may be used when infection is suspected. In persistent cases, evaluation for inflammatory disease or malabsorption may be indicated.

Treatment focuses on maintaining hydration and replacing electrolytes. Mild cases may be managed at home with oral rehydration solutions and a gradual return to a regular diet. Antidiarrheal medications may be used in selected adults but are typically avoided in children or if infection is suspected.

Prevention includes good hand hygiene, safe food preparation, clean drinking water, and, where appropriate, vaccination (for example, rotavirus). Probiotics may reduce the duration of some diarrheal illnesses in certain populations.

Prognosis is generally favorable for acute uncomplicated episodes. Chronic diarrhea requires medical evaluation to identify underlying disease.