Diarrhea
Loose, frequent stools can cause fluid loss. The duration, associated symptoms and ability to drink help determine the level of care needed.
Common symptoms
- Loose or watery stools
- Urgency
- Abdominal cramps
- Sometimes nausea
A useful care conversation
Share how often stools occur, when symptoms began and any travel, recent antibiotics or sick contacts. Mention vomiting, blood, fever and changes in urine. The clinician can discuss hydration and whether testing or an examination is appropriate.
When to seek more care
- Get prompt care for blood in the stool, severe abdominal pain, fever with significant illness, or inability to keep fluids down.
- Very little urine, marked dizziness or worsening weakness can signal dehydration.
General educational information, not a diagnosis or a complete symptom checker. The right care depends on your circumstances.
For an emergency, call 911. Do not wait for a Tap reply or send a photo first.
About this information
Adapted from Tap’s published care-topic library. Original publication: 2025-01-01. Prepared for this guide: 2026-09-07. Preparation is not a clinical-review certification.
The clinician decides whether advice, testing, an examination or a prescription is appropriate. A listed topic does not guarantee remote treatment or a refill. Tap does not prescribe controlled substances.