Remedy for diarrhoea

Diarrhoea means stools are looser or more frequent than usual. A short episode can follow food poisoning or gastroenteritis. Food intolerance may cause repeated symptoms after a particular food. Persistent or recurring diarrhoea can occur with irritable bowel syndrome, coeliac disease, Crohn's disease, or an overactive thyroid. Recent travel, untreated water, or ongoing symptoms after travel can raise the possibility of giardiasis. The pattern, associated pain, fever, vomiting, and any blood help a clinician decide what evaluation is needed.

Take frequent small sips of water and consider an oral rehydration solution, especially after repeated watery stools or vomiting. Continue eating light, familiar foods as tolerated; rice, bread, bananas, soup, or yoghurt may be easier for some people. Avoid alcohol and foods that clearly worsen symptoms. Wash hands with soap and water, clean toilet surfaces, and avoid preparing food for others while infectious diarrhoea is possible. Do not give anti-diarrhoeal medicines to a child without professional advice, and ask a pharmacist before using them if you have fever, blood in the stool, or significant abdominal pain.

Get urgent medical help for fainting, confusion, severe weakness, very little urine, inability to keep fluids down, severe abdominal pain, black stools, or blood in the stool. Seek prompt advice for a high fever, diarrhoea after antibiotics, pregnancy, older age, a weakened immune system, or symptoms in a young child. Arrange assessment when diarrhoea does not settle, keeps returning, or is accompanied by weight loss or nighttime symptoms.

How can I replace fluids safely? Could a medicine, infection, or food intolerance explain the pattern? Do I need stool tests or blood tests?