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Diarrhea is a term describing loose, watery stools. Having diarrhea means passing loose stools three or more times a day.

When your digestive system is in its normal rhythm, food and fluid pass regularly from the stomach into the small intestine. Food is then broken down and nutrients are absorbed along with most of the fluid. The remaining waste and some water pass into the colon (large intestine) where more water is absorbed. Finally, the waste is passed in the form of stools.

During a bout of diarrhea, the intestinal movement can become overactive, and less fluid is absorbed back into the body. The result is loose or watery stools, commonly known as diarrhea.

A number of factors can cause diarrhea – these may include infections, foods, drinks, medications, travel-related illnesses or certain medical disorders.

Here are some common factors that could cause diarrhea:

•  Stress.  Are you going through a particularly stressful period? Stress can have an influence on gastrointestinal function and can be a trigger for diarrhea.

•  Food Intolerance.  Knowing your ‘trigger’ foods, drinks and/or eating habits provide an important means of limiting the incidence of diarrhea. It’s to your advantage to keep a food diary to better understand how your body responds to what works and what doesn’t.

•  Menstruation.  Women can experience diarrhea and abdominal pain around (before and during) their menses.

•  Gastroenteritis.  This is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by an infection.

•  Norovirus.  This is a viral infection that leads to gastroenteritis. Eating or drinking contaminated food or drink can lead to gastroenteritis and associated diarrhea.

A bout of diarrhea can be a very uncomfortable experience – but you can take steps to help relieve it.

IMODIUM^® products contain an active ingredient called Loperamide, which works by slowing down the movement of fluid through the gut. This allows for overall greater absorption of valuable fluids and salts back into your system and treats diarrhea symptoms.

Here are some things you can do if you contract diarrhea:

• A key step is staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluid. Consider using an oral rehydration solution, which generally contain a specific mixture of salt, glucose and water.

• Avoid foods or drinks that are caffeinated, greasy, high in fiber or high in sugars or sweeteners. These may worsen your diarrhea. As you start feeling better, you may introduce bland foods such as banana, plain rice, baked potatoes and crackers back to your diet. Remember that while reducing the intake of certain foods during an acute episode may be necessary, it is best to return to a normal, balanced diet as quickly as possible.

IMODIUM^® (loperamide) helps relieve the symptoms of diarrhea. Refer to the Drug Facts label on the package for complete product information.

A prescription is not required. IMODIUM^® products are widely available over-the-counter in drug stores and supermarkets.