Loose stools are unusually watery bowel movements. Causes may include gastrointestinal infections, ulcerative colitis, and thyroid problems, among others.
Loose stools may occur after eating or at other points in the day. They may be softer than a person’s usual stools. They may also be watery, mushy, or shapeless and can he a strong, foul odor.
Diarrhea is when a person experiences three or more loose and watery stools through the day. That said, some people may experience loose stools without hing diarrhea.