Diarrhea is usually not life-threatening, but certain signs mean you should seek care promptly. Here’s a practical guide to help you know when to worry and when to wait. Direct answer
- See a clinician now if diarrhea lasts more than 1–2 days with dehydration or if you have red flags (blood in stool, severe abdominal pain, high fever, or signs of dehydration you can’t recover from at home).
- Seek urgent care if you have persistent vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, confusion, severe dehydration (very little or no urination, very dry mouth, dizziness when standing), or symptoms suggesting a medical emergency (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fainting, or vomiting blood).
Key warning signs and red flags
- Signs of dehydration: very dry mouth, excessive thirst, dark urine or little urination, dizziness or lightheadedness, sunken eyes, lethargy or confusion.
- Blood in stool or black, tarry stools.
- High fever (around or above 102°F / 39°C) or fever with severe abdominal pain.
- Diarrhea that lasts more than 1–2 days (acute) or any persistent diarrhea lasting several weeks (chronic) despite home care.
- Vomiting prevents taking fluids for several hours.
- Severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or symptoms in vulnerable groups (infants, pregnant people, older adults, people with weakened immune systems, or those with chronic illnesses).
What to do now (general self-care)
- Hydration: sip oral rehydration solutions or small amounts of water, electrolyte drinks, or broth; avoid large gulps that can trigger more vomiting.
- Diet: start with bland foods when able (BRAT-like foods such as bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) and gradually reintroduce normal foods as tolerated.
- Medications: rehydration and caution with anti-diarrheal medicines; avoid them if you have fever, blood in stool, or suspicion of bacterial infection unless advised by a clinician.
- When to contact a clinician for tests: if diarrhea is persistent, recurrent, or very troublesome, or if there are risk factors (recent travel, antibiotic use, underlying conditions).
Special considerations
- Infants and young children: dehydration can develop quickly; seek urgent care for signs of dehydration or if they are unusually sleepy, cranky, or not feeding well.
- Older adults and people with chronic illnesses: may have higher risk for complications; contact your healthcare provider if diarrhea lasts more than 24–48 hours or if there are any red flags.
Bottom line
- Most diarrhea resolves on its own within a couple of days with supportive care, but certain symptoms require prompt medical evaluation or urgent care. If in doubt, it’s safest to contact a healthcare professional to assess your situation.
