About this course

Diarrhea continues to be one of the most common medical complaints in the world. This e-learning module aims to differentiate acute diarrhea from chronic diarrhea, discuss its differing etiologies, present management strategies for acute diarrhea, and differentiate the two most common types of chronic diarrhea: functional and organic.

Learning outcomes

• Differentiate between acute diarrhea and chronic diarrhea
• Understand the management of acute diarrhea including the role of diagnostic tests and antibiotic treatment
• Differentiate between organic and functional causes of chronic diarrhea, and refer accordingly for further management

Topics covered

• Definition of acute diarrhea and chronic diarrhea
• Management goal and strategies of acute diarrhea including the role of diagnostic tests, pharmacologic support (loperamide, bismuth subsalicylate), and antibiotic treatment
• Differentiate between organic and functional causes of chronic diarrhea
• Management strategies for functional chronic diarrhea including lifestyle and diet modification, referral to dietitian or psychologist, and use of medications (anti-diarrheal, fiber supplements, and probiotics)
• When to refer to a gastroenterologist