diarrhea overview for patients

Overview

Diarrhea is when you pass loose, watery stools more often than usual. It is a common problem that usually lasts a few days. The main concern is losing too much fluid and salt from your body, which can lead to dehydration.

Yes. Almost everyone has diarrhea at some point. It is one of the most common health problems around the world.

Diarrhea can affect people of all ages. Babies, young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems have the highest risk of complications.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Loose or watery stools three or more times a day
• Belly cramps or pain
• A sudden strong need to use the toilet
• Feeling bloated or full of gas
• Feeling sick to your stomach
• Sometimes vomiting or a mild fever

Symptoms in children

• Fewer wet nappies or fewer trips to the toilet to pee than usual
• Dry mouth or lips
• Crying with few or no tears
• Unusual drowsiness or being hard to wake
• Being irritable or fussy
• Refusing to drink fluids

Symptoms in older adults

• Dark urine or not passing urine very often
• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
• Confusion or unusual tiredness
• Dry mouth and sunken eyes
• Less skin elasticity — skin stays pinched for a moment when lifted

Causes

Main causes

• Viral infections, often called stomach bugs
• Bacterial infections from contaminated food or water
• Food intolerances or sensitivities
• Side effects of certain medicines, such as antibiotics
• Digestive conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease

Risk factors

• Traveling to areas with poor water or food safety
• Drinking untreated or unsafe water
• Eating undercooked meat, eggs, or seafood
• Being in close contact with someone who has diarrhea
• Living in group settings like nursing homes or daycare centers
• Having a weakened immune system

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You have signs of dehydration, like feeling very thirsty, passing little urine, or feeling dizzy
• Diarrhea is getting worse instead of better after 2 days
• You have severe belly pain or a fever that does not go away
• You see blood or mucus in your stool
• You are older than 65 or have a long-term health condition

Book a routine appointment if:

• Diarrhea lasts more than 3 days in an adult
• Diarrhea lasts more than 1 day in a young child
• You have repeated episodes of diarrhea over several weeks
• Travel-related diarrhea that does not improve after returning home
• You are not managing to drink enough fluids

Diagnosis

A healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any recent travel or food exposures. They will also check whether you show signs of dehydration.

Tests that may be done

• A stool (poo) sample test to look for infection or inflammation
• A blood test to check your fluid levels, salts, and kidney function
• A urine test to see if you are dehydrated
• For long-lasting diarrhea, a small telescope exam of the bowel, such as a flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy, may be considered

What to expect at your appointment

Many people with short-term diarrhea do not need tests. The main visit is usually focused on preventing dehydration and deciding if any treatment is needed. If tests are done, results may take a day or more, and your provider will explain what they mean.

Treatment

The main treatment is replacing the fluids and salts your body loses. Most diarrhea stops on its own. The goal is to keep you hydrated and comfortable while your digestive system recovers.

Self-care at home

• Drink small sips of water, clear broth, or oral rehydration solution throughout the day
• Eat bland, easy-to-digest foods like rice, bananas, plain toast, or boiled potatoes
• Rest as much as possible
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and very sweet or greasy foods until you feel better
• Wash your hands well after using the toilet to avoid spreading it

Medical treatments

Some people may need treatment for an infection, and a healthcare provider can prescribe medication if necessary. Over-the-counter products can help with symptoms in some cases, but you should always ask a pharmacist or doctor before using any medicine — especially for children, older adults, or people with other health conditions. Rehydration drinks can be used to replace salts and fluids safely.

Living with this condition

While you have diarrhea, try to stay close to a toilet, keep fluids nearby, and plan your day around your symptoms. Let family or friends know so they can help you, especially if you feel weak or dizzy.

Lifestyle tips

• Drink fluids regularly, even before you feel thirsty
• Use soft toilet paper or a gentle skin cleanser to protect the area around your anus
• Return to normal foods slowly, starting with bland meals
• Avoid heavy exercise or long trips until you are well hydrated
• Follow good hand hygiene to protect others

Diet and exercise

Eat small, frequent, bland meals when you feel ready. Good choices include plain rice, mashed potatoes, bananas, cooked carrots, and crackers. Avoid spicy, fatty, or very sweet foods for a few days. Gentle walks are fine once you have energy, but rest is more important while symptoms are active.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Diarrhea can feel embarrassing, stressful, and exhausting. It may interrupt work, social life, and sleep. If you feel anxious or low, know that this episode is likely temporary. Talking to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare professional can help.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent diarrhea, but you can lower your risk by washing your hands with soap and water, preparing food safely, drinking clean water, and avoiding unsafe food when traveling.

Vaccines

Vaccines can protect against some causes of diarrhea, such as rotavirus, which often affects young children. Ask your local health team about vaccines that are right for you or your child.

Screening programmes

Routine screening is not usually needed for acute diarrhea. If you have long-lasting digestive symptoms, your healthcare provider may recommend tests to look for underlying conditions.

Complications

If left untreated

• Dehydration, which is the most common and serious complication
• Loss of essential salts from your body
• Kidney problems in severe cases
• Malnutrition if diarrhea continues for a long time
• Rarely, an infection that spreads to the bloodstream

Long-term outlook

Most people recover fully from diarrhea within a few days with rest and fluids. Even in more stubborn cases, the body usually clears the cause, and simple measures can greatly reduce the risk of complications. If symptoms stay longer than usual, medical help can identify the cause and support you in feeling better.

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