Understanding and Managing Diarrhoea
Educational resource
What Is Diarrhoea?
Diarrhoea is defined as passing three or more loose, watery stools in a single day. It is usually short-lived, but persistent diarrhoea lasting four or more weeks can signal an underlying condition that needs medical care.
Because diarrhoea causes the body to lose fluids and electrolytes quickly, staying hydrated is the most important part of self-care. Seek medical help if you notice signs of dehydration, have a fever, or see blood in your stool.
Common Symptoms
- Frequent, loose, or watery bowel movements
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Nausea or queasiness
Causes
Diarrhoea can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Acute diarrhoea usually lasts a few days, while chronic diarrhoea lasts four weeks or longer.
- Acute causes: Viral gastroenteritis, bacterial food poisoning, medication side effects, or reactions to spicy or high-fat foods
- Chronic causes: Persistent infections and medical conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Treatment and Prevention
Focus on hydration first. Sip water, oral rehydration solutions (ORS), or broths to replace lost fluid and electrolytes.
- Practice frequent handwashing to reduce the spread of germs
- Resume eating gentle solid foods when you feel ready, avoiding sugary drinks, caffeine, and high-fat meals
- Talk with a healthcare professional if symptoms last more than a few days or occur with fever or blood