Watery diarrhea is a condition where the stool is loose and watery instead of solid. It can be a symptom of various conditions, including viral infections like norovirus and bacterial infections, as well as chronic conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) . Watery diarrhea can also be a side effect of certain medications.

Symptoms associated with watery diarrhea may include:

• Loose, watery stools
• Belly cramps or pain
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Blood or mucus in the stool
• Urgent need to have a bowel movement

If watery diarrhea persists beyond two days with no improvement, it is recommended to see a doctor. Other reasons to see a doctor include severe abdominal or rectal pain, bloody or black stools, a fever above 102 F (39 C), and signs of dehydration such as dark urine, dry mouth, excessive thirst, sunken eyes or cheeks, fatigue, confusion, and lightheadedness.

To manage watery diarrhea, it is important to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. Avoiding foods that make it worse and taking medications to treat diarrhea or an underlying condition can also help. If you have severe diarrhea, it is important to seek medical attention to prevent complications.