1. Diarrhea -- loose, watery stools occurring more than three times in one day -- is a common problem that usually lasts a day or two and goes away on its own without any special treatment.
True
False

2. The average adult has a bout of diarrhea about four times a year.
True
False

3. Diarrhea can cause dehydration, which means the body lacks enough fluid to function properly.
True
False

4. Dehydration is not a particularly dangerous problem, not even in children or the elderly.
True
False

5. There is no treatment for dehydration.
True
False

6. Diarrhea is often caused by a temporary problem, like an infection, or a chronic problem, like an intestinal disease.
True
False

7. Among the more common causes of diarrhea are bacterial infections, viral infections, food intolerances, parasites, intestinal diseases, and functional bowel disorders (such as irritable bowel syndrome).
True
False

8. Diarrhea is not caused by any medications.
True
False

9. Reaction to medicines such as antibiotics, blood pressure medications, and antacids containing magnesium are among the common causes of diarrhea.
True
False

10. People who visit foreign countries are at risk for traveler's diarrhea, which is caused by eating food or drinking water contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or, sometimes, parasites.
True
False

11. Even if diarrhea goes away on its own, an extensive search for the cause is usually necessary.
True
False

12. Diarrhea may be accompanied by cramping abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, or an urgent need to use the bathroom.
True
False

13. Diarrhea is always acute (short lasting), never chronic (long lasting).
True
False

14. The acute form of diarrhea lasts less than 3 weeks and is usually related to a bacterial, viral, or parasitic infection.
True
False

15. Chronic diarrhea lasts more than 3 weeks and is usually related to functional disorders like irritable bowel syndrome or diseases like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease.
True
False

16. Diarrhea can be dangerous in newborns and infants.
True
False

17. Medications to treat diarrhea in adults can be dangerous to children and should be given only under a doctor's guidance.
True
False

18. In small children, severe diarrhea lasting just a day or two can lead to dehydration.
True
False

19. Because a child can die from dehydration within a few days, the main treatment for diarrhea in children is rehydration.
True
False

20. Although usually not harmful, diarrhea can become dangerous or signal a more serious problem. You should see the doctor if: you have diarrhea for more than 3 days, you have severe pain in the abdomen or rectum, you have a fever of 102 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, you see blood in your stool or have black, tarry stools or you have signs of dehydration.
True
False

21. If your child has diarrhea, do not hesitate to call the doctor for advice.
True
False

22. In most cases, replacing lost fluid to prevent dehydration is the only treatment necessary for diarrhea.
True
False

23. Until diarrhea subsides, you should drink milk and eat foods that are greasy, high-fiber, and very sweet.
True
False

24. For children, the pediatrician may recommend what is called the BRAT diet: bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast.
True
False

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