is loose stool considered diarrhea
Diarrhea is defined as frequent, loose stools. It can range from 2-3 mushy stools per day to more than six watery stools per day. Frequency or how often the child is going is the best indicator of how bad the diarrhea is. One loose stool a day is not considered diarrhea. Diarrhea is usually caused by a viral infection of the intestines (gastroenteritis). Occasionally, it can be caused by bacteria or a parasite. It can also be due to excessive fruit juice or a food allergy. If only one or two loose stools are passed, the cause is probably something your child ate.