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What are common causes of acute diarrhea?
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digestive system disease
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Acute diarrhea is most commonly caused by gastroenteritis, an infectious syndrome of the stomach and intestinal lining. This condition is frequently triggered by various viruses, bacteria, and parasites that either secrete toxins causing water and electrolyte loss or directly invade the gut wall to cause inflammation.1
Common infectious agents and scenarios include:
- Viral pathogens: Rotaviruses, caliciviruses, Norwalk viruses, and adenoviruses are leading causes of viral diarrhea.1
- Bacterial infections: Pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus aureus often enter the body through contaminated food or water.12
- Traveler’s diarrhea: Often contracted in regions with unsanitary food or water, this is frequently caused by enterotoxin-producing strains of E. coli.12
- Other factors: Acute diarrhea can also result from food poisoning, the use of laxatives, alcohol consumption, or the intake of certain antacids.2