Diarrhea refers to passing loose, watery stools three or more times a day. If the condition persists for a day or two it’s called “acute diarrhea”. A condition of diarrhea lasting more than a few days may be a sign of a more serious problem.

Diarrhea is most commonly caused by the infections of bacteria, viruses and parasites in the digestive tract. These microbes generally enter the digestive system through infected food, water, milk or other foods. Diseases such as cholera and typhoid also cause diarrhea.

Non-infectious conditions that can cause diarrhea are: Inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome, intestinal allergies, intolerance to lactose or gluten, bowel cancer, use of certain medicines like antibiotics, cancer drugs.

Any type of diarrhea is known to cause dehydration, which leads to a loss of fluid and important electrolytes in the body.

In Ayurveda, diarrhea is called “Atisaaram”. “Ati” means excess and “saranam” indicates overflow. According to Ayurveda, weak digestive fires, improper food, impure water, toxins and mental stress usually cause Atisaaram. Depending on the particular Dosha is vitiated, Atisaaram is classified into the following types: Vataj, Pittaj, Kaphaj, Sannipatik, Bhayaj and Shokaj.

The Vataj Atisaaram features a motion with gasses and sounds. Pittaj Atisaaram causes movement with a burning sensation that gives off an unpleasant odor. Kaphaj Atisaaram is a sticky, oily, white substance with an unpleasant odor. Sannipatik Atisaaram is a product of the three doshas and has mixed properties. Bhayaj and Shokaj Atisaaram are caused by fear and sadness.