SQUITS Meaning and
Definition
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The term "squits" refers to a gastrointestinal condition characterized by frequent loose or watery stools or diarrhea. It is a slang term often used informally in British English to describe an episode of diarrhea.
Medically, "squits" is a colloquial term for a bout of acute or chronic diarrhea caused by various factors such as bacterial or viral infections, food poisoning, inflammation of the digestive tract, certain medications, or dietary indiscretions. It is commonly associated with increased frequency and urgency of bowel movements, loose or watery consistency of stools, and sometimes abdominal pain or cramping.
The condition can be short-lived and self-limiting, lasting a few days to a week, but in some cases, it persists for longer durations. Due to the frequent passage of liquid stools, individuals experiencing squits may become dehydrated and may require additional fluid intake to maintain hydration levels.
Treatment for squits typically involves addressing the underlying cause, such as a bacterial infection, by prescribing antibiotics or other appropriate medications. Supportive measures, including maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance through increased fluid intake, are also crucial to prevent dehydration.
Though not a formal medical term or acknowledged diagnosis, "squits" is widely understood in casual conversations or literature, often conveying the discomfort and inconvenience associated with an episode of diarrhea.
Etymology of SQUITS
The word "squits" is believed to have originated from Middle English, specifically from the Old French word "esquits" meaning "to discharge, eject". This French term is derived from the Latin word "exquītere", which means "to dart out quickly" or "to discharge". Over time, the word "squits" came to be used to describe a condition characterized by diarrhea or a sudden urge to defecate.
