However, prolonged diarrhea can be a sign of other problems.
Diarrhea can cause dehydration, which means the body lacks enough fluid to function properly.
Dehydration is particularly dangerous in children and the elderly, and it must be treated promptly to avoid serious health problems. Dehydration is discussed below. People of all ages can get diarrhea. The average adult has a bout of diarrhea about four times a year. Diarrhea may be caused by a temporary problem, like an infection, or a chronic problem, like an intestinal disease.