If you have diarrhea, the primary steps to take include staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids such as water, oral rehydration solutions, broths, and diluted juices to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. Resting at home and avoiding work or school until at least 24 hours after the last loose stool is recommended. Dietary adjustments like eating bland, low-fiber foods — often referred to as the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) — and avoiding fatty, spicy, or dairy-heavy foods can help ease symptoms. Over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications may help reduce symptoms but should not be used if you have a fever or blood in your stool or in children without medical advice. Seek medical attention if diarrhea persists beyond a few days, is severe, or is accompanied by symptoms like dehydration, severe pain, or blood in stool.
Hydration
Drinking clear fluids and, ideally, oral rehydration solutions helps prevent dehydration, which is a major concern with diarrhea. Sports drinks are generally not recommended for rehydration in severe diarrhea cases as they may lack the appropriate balance of electrolytes. For children and older adults, oral rehydration solutions are preferred over plain water.
Dietary Advice
The BRAT diet—bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast—is recommended because these foods are bland, low in fiber, and help firm stools. Other tolerated foods include boiled potatoes, crackers, and certain soups. Avoid dairy, fatty, spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol during this time as they can exacerbate symptoms.
Medications
Over-the-counter anti-diarrheal drugs like loperamide and bismuth subsalicylate might reduce diarrhea frequency but aren't suitable for all cases, especially if infection is present or in young children. Probiotics may help restore gut flora, though evidence of their effectiveness specifically for diarrhea is still being researched. Antibiotics should only be used if a bacterial cause is confirmed by a doctor.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical care if diarrhea lasts more than a few days, you experience dehydration symptoms (such as dry mouth, reduced urination, dizziness), have a high fever, severe abdominal pain, blood in stools, or if the affected person is a very young child or elderly. Persistent or severe symptoms may require specific medical treatments.
