Where constipation is a sign of a full obstruction, diarrhea can be a sign of a partial blockage, when only part of the intestines are obstructed. When this occurs, liquid stool leaks around the obstruction because solid stool cannot form. Some medical professionals call this overflow diarrhea, and it may persist until the blockage clears. When you have overflow diarrhea, you never feel like you have completely emptied your bowels, leaving you in a constant state of discomfort.

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