Index
What is Diarrhoea?
Diarrhoea is when stools become loose, watery, and more frequent than usual. It can affect people of all ages and may be caused by infection, food intolerance, stress, or medication.
Most cases are short-lived, but persistent diarrhoea can lead to dehydration or may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical review.
What Causes Diarrhoea?
Infections
- Viral infections (e.g., norovirus, rotavirus)
- Bacterial infections (e.g., food poisoning)
- Parasites (less common in the UK)
Lifestyle or Dietary Factors
- Food intolerance (e.g., lactose intolerance)
- Eating contaminated food or drink
- Excess caffeine or alcohol
Medical Causes
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s/colitis)
- Medication side effects (antibiotics, antacids, metformin)
- Malabsorption conditions
What Are the Common Symptoms of Diarrhoea?
- Loose or watery stools
- Urgency to use the toilet
- Abdominal cramps
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Fever (in infection)
- Dehydration (thirst, dry mouth, dizziness)
How Is Diarrhoea Diagnosed?
A GP will ask about symptoms, travel history, recent meals, medications, and whether others around you are unwell.
Online, a GP can:
- Assess severity
- Recommend rehydration and diet measures
- Prescribe medication for symptom relief if suitable
In-person, a GP may arrange:
- Stool tests (infection, parasites, inflammation)
- Blood tests
- Further investigations if symptoms persist
How Long Does Diarrhoea Last?
- Viral diarrhoea: usually 1–3 days
- Food poisoning: 24 hours to a few days
- Medication-related diarrhoea: until the drug is stopped or adjusted
- Chronic diarrhoea: lasting >4 weeks, requires medical assessment
Recovery may take longer in children, older adults, or those with underlying medical conditions.
Is Diarrhoea Contagious?
Yes—if caused by viral or bacterial infection.
To prevent spreading:
- Wash hands regularly
- Avoid preparing food for others until 48 hours after symptoms stop
- Clean contaminated surfaces thoroughly
How to Feel Better and Recover Quickly
Self-Care at Home
- Drink plenty of fluids (water, oral rehydration solutions)
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol, fatty or spicy foods
- Start with bland foods (rice, bananas, toast) when able
- Rest and avoid strenuous activity
Treatment from a GP
- Oral rehydration salts
- Antidiarrhoeal medication (e.g., loperamide) if appropriate
- Antibiotics only if a specific bacterial cause is confirmed
- Review and adjustment of any medication that may be contributing
When Referral Is Needed
- Persistent diarrhoea
- Suspicion of inflammatory bowel disease
- Recurrent symptoms or weight loss
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
Go to A&E if:
- You are unable to keep fluids down
- You have signs of severe dehydration (drowsiness, dizziness, reduced urination)
- There is blood in stools
- You develop a high fever or severe abdominal pain
Use urgent care if:
- Diarrhoea lasts more than 7 days
- Symptoms worsen or you feel very unwell
How Dr.Online UK Can Help
- Same-day online GP appointments
- Advice and reassurance
- Private prescriptions for rehydration or symptom relief
- Fit notes or referral letters if needed
