What are the common causes of frequent loose or watery stools?

Medically, the condition of unformed stools and frequent loose bowel movements is commonly referred to as diarrhea. This may be caused by various factors, including but not limited to:

1. Infection: The most common cause is intestinal infection caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites, such as rotavirus, norovirus, Salmonella, and Shigella.

2. Food poisoning: Ingestion of food or water contaminated by bacteria or viruses can lead to acute gastroenteritis, presenting symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting.

3. Indigestion: Overconsumption of greasy or hard-to-digest foods, or intolerance to certain food components (e.g., lactose intolerance), may result in unformed stools.

4. Dietary factors: Long-term intake of spicy, greasy, or irritating foods, or irregular eating habits, may lead to unformed stools. These foods can irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa and affect digestive function.

5. Intestinal tuberculosis: When Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection involves the intestines, hyperplasia and increased exudation of the intestinal mucosa occur, along with localized narrowing of the intestine, resulting in unformed stools.

6. Weak gastrointestinal function: This may be related to factors such as low immunity and overeating. Consuming spicy or greasy foods may trigger symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain.