Diarrhoeal Disease

Abstract

Diarrhoea is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by the passage of frequent loose or watery stools, with significant implications for global health. While often self-limiting, severe diarrhoea can result in life-threatening dehydration, malnutrition, and impaired growth, particularly in children under five, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. This review explores the definition, mechanisms, aetiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of diarrhoeal disease. It highlights infectious and non-infectious causes, including viral, bacterial, and parasitic pathogens, as well as functional and systemic disorders. Management focuses on fluid and electrolyte replacement, nutritional support, and targeted therapies such as antibiotics, probiotics, and zinc supplementation. Preventive strategies, including water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions, rotavirus and cholera vaccination, breastfeeding, and community education, are emphasized as critical tools to reduce incidence and mortality. Special considerations for vulnerable groups, such as children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised patients, are discussed. Despite advances in prevention and treatment, diarrhoea remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, underscoring the need for integrated health strategies to break the cycle of infection, malnutrition, and death.