Diarrhoea Treatment: Simple Steps to Feel Better Fast

Got the runs and need relief right now? You don’t have to suffer for hours. In the next few minutes you’ll learn practical steps that actually work, from what to drink to which over‑the‑counter pills can help. No jargon, just clear advice you can use today.

Start with Rehydration

The biggest danger with diarrhoea isn’t the tummy upset—it’s losing fluids and electrolytes. Grab an oral rehydration solution (ORS) if you have one, or mix half a teaspoon of salt and six teaspoons of sugar into a litre of clean water. Sip it slowly every few minutes. If you don’t have ORS, sports drinks, clear broths, or even diluted fruit juice are okay, but avoid caffeinated or sugary sodas because they can make dehydration worse.

Eat the Right Foods

When you feel ready to eat, stick to the BRAT diet: bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. These bland foods are low in fiber and help firm up stools. Add boiled potatoes, plain crackers, or plain yogurt with live cultures if you tolerate them. Skip dairy, fried foods, spicy sauces, and raw fruits until you’re back to normal.

For most adults, diarrhoea clears up in one to three days. If you want faster relief, consider an OTC anti‑diarrhoeal like loperamide (Imodium). Take the first dose as directed, then only if stools are still loose after a few hours. Remember, these meds slow gut movement, so don’t use them if you have a fever, blood in stool, or a known infection.

Sometimes a probiotic can speed recovery. A daily dose of a high‑quality probiotic strain (like Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG) can rebalance gut bacteria, especially after a course of antibiotics. Look for products with at least 10 billion CFUs per serving.

When to call a doctor: if diarrhoea lasts more than three days, you notice blood or pus, you have a fever over 101°F (38.5°C), you’re pregnant, or you have a chronic condition like diabetes or heart disease. Kids under two years old with any diarrhoea should be seen promptly because they dehydrate quickly.

Prevent future episodes by washing hands thoroughly, drinking safe water, and avoiding foods that sit out at room temperature for long periods. If you travel, use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth, and steer clear of street‑side salads unless you know they’re washed with clean water.

Bottom line: hydrate first, eat bland foods, use OTC meds wisely, and watch for warning signs. Follow these steps and you’ll be back to normal in no time.