Diarrhoea - How to stop it? | UHL NHS Trust

Common causes of diarrhoea include infections such as gastroenteritis, food poisoning, certain medications, and underlying conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

To stop diarrhoea, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Oral rehydration solutions are particularly effective. Avoid dairy, fatty foods, and caffeinated beverages. Eat bland foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet).

Consult a doctor if diarrhoea persists for more than a few days, if you experience severe pain, high fever, signs of dehydration, or blood in your stool.

Over-the-counter medications like loperamide (Imodium) can be used to reduce diarrhoea symptoms. Always follow the instructions and consult with a pharmacist if unsure.

Probiotics may help restore the balance of bacteria in your gut and can be beneficial in managing diarrhoea, especially after taking antibiotics.

Yes, it is safe to eat. Focus on light, easy-to-digest foods. The BRAT diet can be helpful, which includes bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast.

To prevent dehydration, drink plenty of clear fluids, oral rehydration solutions, or electrolyte drinks. Avoid caffeine and alcohol as they can exacerbate dehydration.

Yes, avoid dairy products, fatty and fried foods, spicy foods, and caffeinated beverages. These can aggravate diarrhoea and make symptoms worse.

Yes, stress and anxiety can cause or exacerbate diarrhoea by affecting gut motility and secretion.

The best liquids for hydration include water, clear broths, oral rehydration solutions, and diluted fruit juices. Avoid sugary drinks, caffeine, and alcohol.

Diarrhoea caused by infections, such as viral or bacterial gastroenteritis, can be contagious. Practice good hygiene, such as thorough handwashing, to prevent spreading the infection.

Yes, certain medications like antibiotics, antacids containing magnesium, and chemotherapy drugs can cause diarrhoea as a side effect.

Ensure your child stays hydrated with oral rehydration solutions. Avoid sugary drinks and offer bland, easy-to-digest foods. Consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen, or if there are signs of dehydration.

Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, excessive thirst, infrequent urination, dark-coloured urine, fatigue, dizziness, and in severe cases, confusion. Seek medical attention if you or someone else shows these symptoms.

Yes, food poisoning is a common cause of acute diarrhoea. It typically occurs after consuming contaminated food or water. Symptoms usually include vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhoea.