Diarrhea is a symptom -- it is not a disease. It is defined as loose, watery stools that occur more than three times in one day. Diarrhea can be caused by many things, including infections, food intolerance, reactions to medicine, intestinal diseases, and functional bowel disorders. Not everyone with diarrhea needs to see a healthcare provider. But because diarrhea in children can potentially be dangerous, you should not hesitate to call your healthcare provider for advice if your child develops diarrhea. Also, you should take your child to a healthcare provider if he or she has watery diarrhea with repeated vomiting; stools containing blood, mucus, or pus; or a temperature above 101.4 degrees Fahrenheit, among other symptoms.