Diarrhoea - GCSE Biology Definition

Reviewed by: Lára Marie McIvor

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Diarrhoea is a condition where a person passes loose or watery stools more frequently than usual. It happens when the digestive system cannot absorb enough water from the food and liquid passing through the intestines. This can be caused by infections from bacteria or viruses, food allergies, or other diseases affecting the gut. Diarrhoea can lead to dehydration because the body loses a lot of water, so it's important to drink plenty of fluids if you have it. In GCSE Biology, understanding diarrhoea is important because it helps explain how the body works to absorb nutrients and maintain balance.

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Lára Marie McIvor

Reviewer: Lára Marie McIvor

Expertise: Biology, Psychology & Sociology Subject Lead

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.

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