One minute you feel fine. Next, you're making repeated trips to the bathroom and wondering whether it's something that will pass or a sign you should be worried. If it's your child who's unwell, the concern can feel even greater.
The good news is that most cases of diarrhoea improve with the right care at home. The challenge is knowing what that care looks like, how to prevent dehydration, and when it's time to seek medical advice instead of waiting it out.
This guide explains how to manage diarrhoea safely, what treatments can help, and the warning signs to watch for in both adults and children so you can feel confident about what to do next.
What's Usually Causing Diarrhoea?
Diarrhoea often develops when an infection, certain foods, or medication temporarily disrupt your digestive system. In most cases, it's caused by a viral gastroenteritis, commonly known as a stomach bug, which usually clears up on its own within a few days.
Other common causes include:
-
Bacterial food poisoning, usually from contaminated food or water.
-
Food intolerances, such as lactose intolerance, which can trigger diarrhoea after eating certain foods.
-
Antibiotics and other medicines, which may temporarily upset the natural balance of bacteria in the gut.
-
Underlying digestive conditions, including coeliac disease or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), particularly if diarrhoea is ongoing or keeps returning.
For most healthy adults and older children, diarrhoea is short-lived and improves as the underlying cause settles. Understanding the signs of dehydration is the next important step.
Why Dehydration Is the Biggest Risk
Diarrhoea can quickly lead to dehydration as fluids and essential salts are lost faster than they can be replaced. Young children and older adults are particularly vulnerable, making it important to recognise the warning signs early.
Signs of dehydration in adults
Watch for:
-
Feeling unusually thirsty
-
Dry mouth or lips
-
Dark yellow urine
-
Passing urine less often than usual
-
Dizziness, especially when standing up
-
Fatigue, weakness, or headaches
Older adults may not always feel thirsty, making dehydration harder to recognise.
Signs of dehydration in children
Look out for:
-
Fewer wet nappies or reduced urination
-
Dry mouth or lips
-
Sunken eyes
-
Crying with few or no tears
-
Unusual sleepiness or difficulty waking
-
Irritability or unusual fussiness
If you notice these signs, start replacing lost fluids as soon as possible.
Rehydration Comes First
The first step in managing diarrhoea is replacing the fluids and essential salts your body loses. While drinking water is important, it doesn't replace electrolytes, which is why oral rehydration solutions (ORS), such as Dioralyte, are recommended. They contain the right balance of glucose and electrolytes to help your body absorb fluids more effectively.
For adults
-
Mix the sachet exactly as directed.
-
Sip small amounts regularly rather than drinking large amounts at once.
-
Continue replacing fluids after each loose bowel movement.
For children
-
Offer small, frequent sips, even if they don't feel like drinking.
-
Continue breastfeeding or formula feeding where appropriate.
-
Prepare oral rehydration solutions exactly as instructed.
Avoid sugary fizzy drinks, energy drinks, and excessive fruit juice, as they may make diarrhoea worse. Once symptoms begin to improve, gradually return to your normal diet.
You can find oral rehydration solutions and other digestive care products in Ballyduff Pharmacy's Digestive Health collection.
Should You Take Medicines to Stop Diarrhoea?
Medicines such as Imodium (loperamide) can provide short-term relief for adults with sudden diarrhoea, but they aren't suitable for everyone.
Loperamide may be suitable if you:
-
Are an adult with short-term, uncomplicated diarrhoea.
-
Need short-term relief from symptoms.
Do not take loperamide if you:
-
Are under 12 years of age, unless advised by a healthcare professional.
-
Have blood in your stool or a high fever, as these may be signs of a more serious infection.
If you're unsure whether loperamide is right for you, speak to your pharmacist or explore our range of anti-diarrhoeal medicines for suitable treatment options.
When to See a Doctor
Most cases of diarrhoea can be managed at home, but certain symptoms may indicate a more serious illness that needs medical attention.
Adults should see a doctor if they:
-
Have diarrhoea that isn't improving after several days.
-
Notice blood in their stool.
-
Develop severe abdominal pain.
-
Have a high fever alongside diarrhoea.
Children should be assessed if they:
-
Are under 2 years of age and develop diarrhoea.
-
Cannot keep fluids down because of persistent vomiting.
-
Show worsening signs of dehydration despite drinking fluids.
-
Become unusually drowsy, difficult to wake, or their condition is getting worse.
If any of these symptoms occur, seek medical advice promptly rather than continuing to manage diarrhoea at home.
Looking After Yourself During Recovery
Recovering from diarrhoea is usually about staying hydrated, resting, and giving your body time to recover.
Whether you need oral rehydration solutions, anti-diarrhoeal medicines, or everyday digestive care products, you'll find trusted options in Ballyduff Pharmacy's Digestive Health collection. If you're unsure which product is right for you or your family, our pharmacy team is here to provide expert advice and help you choose the most appropriate option.