Articles (5)
Synonyms
Diarrhea, also spelled diarrhoea, is the condition of having at least three loose or liquid bowel movements each day. It often lasts for a few days and can result in dehydration due to fluid loss.
Articles for Diarrhoea
Causes
Diarrhoea is usually caused by a bowel infection. Other causes can be things like a food allergy, alcohol or appendicitis. If you're taking any medicine, check the side effects. Diarrhoea might be one of them.
Introduction
Diarrhoea should go away on its own within a few days. It's normal to also have stomach cramps. It's important that you drink enough fluids to avoid dehydration. Your pee should be light yellow or clear.
Prevention
You can't always prevent diarrhoea. Good food hygiene can reduce the risk of getting it. While you have diarrhoea: wash your hands well every time you've been to the toilet, clean the toilet after you've gone, etc.
Symptoms
Symptoms of diarrhoea for adults and children include: watery or loose poo, stomach cramps, feeling sick and vomiting, etc. Diarrhoea often lasts 2 to 4 days in adults and 5 to 7 days in babies or children.
Treatment
You can take medicines to help reduce the diarrhoea and shorten how long it lasts. But you don't have to take these and they won't cure your diarrhoea. Describe your symptoms to the pharmacist. They can recommend the best medicine for you.
