During the summer heat, the last thing you want to do is run around trying to find a bathroom because you feel the need to relieve yourself.

It is a summer diarrhea that is relatively common in humans

Believe it or not, summer diarrhea was actually much worse about a century ago.

According to a 2020 study published in the journal Explorations in Economic History, the deadly viral and bacterial disease known as summer diarrhea was extremely common between 1910 and 1930.

These cases were deadlier for children and eventually faded in presence because, the magazine speculates, water purification and food safety measures became stronger.

In addition, summer diarrhea continues to be a problem worldwide, according to the Journal of Clinical and Medical Images.

The researchers explain that the causes of many of these illnesses are not fully understood, but it is assumed that the summer months are potentially linked to pathogens being able to survive and spread.

"When your body is faced with high heat and humidity, it can go into a state of stress to try to get back to your core temperature," says certified dietitian and health food expert Erin Lisemby Judge.

"For some, this 'heat stress' may not lead to problems, but for those who are already susceptible to symptoms – such as those with irritable bowel syndrome – this stress can cause symptoms such as bloating, pain and diarrhea," she adds.

Any diarrhea can be cause for concern.

According to nutritionist Lindsay Wengler, if diarrhea persists for several days, it's important to seek medical attention because it could signal a serious illness like food poisoning.

"To reduce the incidence of foodborne illness, don't eat food that's been out of the refrigerator for more than two hours, cook meat thoroughly, and make sure you wash your hands before preparing or eating food," says Wengler.

It may also be helpful to know that warmer weather can make some more susceptible to a variety of digestive issues, so you should be on the lookout for potential diarrhea triggers.

Common triggers include alcohol, spicy foods, fatty foods, and large amounts of high-fiber foods.

The thing to remember is that hot weather and diarrhea cause dehydration separately.

This means you need to consume enough water and electrolytes.

Packing electrolyte tablets and a bottle of water on hot days can help prevent further dehydration if IBS or a bout of diarrhea strikes.

/KP