More than three to four loose, watery stools in a 24-hour period is considered to be diarrhea. Diarrhea is usually caused by a virus and normally improves without medication. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration.

Treatment:

Call your health care provider for advice. Be sure to let them know if the diarrhea is accompanied by additional symptoms such as stomach cramps, fever, decreased urine or blood in the stool.

It is important to have the child drink lots of clear liquids. If a child is having trouble drinking liquids, try popsicles!