Diarrhoea: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Greek 'diarrhoia', meaning 'to flow through', portraying the rapid movement of stool.
• In Latin, it was called 'diarrhoea', with historical medical texts using it to describe the condition as early as the 1st century AD.

Health and Medicine

• Diarrhoea can result from infections, food intolerances, or chronic conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
• It can lead to dehydration, especially in young children and the elderly, making hydration a crucial aspect of management.
• Probiotics, found in yogurt, are sometimes recommended to help restore gut health after bouts of diarrhoea.

Cultural References

• In some cultures, certain foods are believed to help stop diarrhoea, such as bananas and rice, due to their binding properties.
• The topic can be a source of humor in comedy, often depicted in movies or shows to exaggerate the urgency of needing a bathroom.

Psychology

• Experiencing severe diarrhoea can lead to anxiety about future bathroom access, affecting social interactions and travel.
• Fear of public restrooms or embarrassment can worsen the psychological stress associated with this condition.

Statistics

• According to the World Health Organization (WHO), diarrhoea is a leading cause of death in children under five in developing countries, highlighting the need for clean water and sanitation.
• In industrialized nations, it is typically less lethal but still affects millions annually, especially during seasonal changes or foodborne outbreaks.

At position #13,783, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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• 13780 attest
• 13781 rattle
• 13782 scribe
• 13783 diarrhoea
• 13784 assented
• 13785 testamentary
• 13786 choke
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