What Is Diarrhoea? Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, Treatments, and Relief

Diarrhoea, commonly known as loose or watery stools, is a condition that affects nearly everyone at some point. While it’s often brief and resolves on its own, persistent or severe diarrhoea can signal a more serious underlying issue. Whether it’s caused by a virus, bacteria, contaminated food, or a chronic illness, timely treatment is essential to avoid dehydration and further complications.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about diarrhoea—its causes, symptoms, different types, and both medical and natural treatment options. You’ll also find practical home remedies and prevention strategies to help you or your loved ones recover faster and live healthier.

What Is Diarrhoea?

Diarrhoea is defined as the passage of three or more loose or watery stools within 24 hours. It can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term), and can vary from mild discomfort to a life-threatening condition if left untreated—especially in children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Diarrhoea

The symptoms of diarrhoea can range from mild to severe and often include:

Frequent, loose or watery stools
Abdominal cramps or pain
Bloating or gas
Nausea and vomiting
Fever
Dehydration (dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness)
Urgent need to use the bathroom

In severe cases, bloody stools or persistent vomiting may also occur. If these symptoms last more than 2–3 days, it’s critical to seek medical attention.

What Causes Diarrhoea?

There are several known causes of diarrhoea. Here’s a breakdown of the most common ones:

1. Viral Infections

Viral gastroenteritis—commonly called the stomach flu—is a leading cause of diarrhoea. Viruses such as rotavirus, norovirus, and adenovirus often spread through contaminated food, water, or surfaces.

2. Bacterial Infections

Consuming contaminated food or water can introduce harmful bacteria like:

Salmonella
E. coli
Shigella
Campylobacter

These bacteria can trigger traveler’s diarrhoea and food poisoning.

3. Food-Related Triggers

Some people are intolerant or allergic to certain foods such as:

Lactose (milk products)
Fructose (fruit sugar)
Gluten (in those with celiac disease)

These substances can irritate the digestive system and lead to diarrhoea.

4. Medications and Antibiotics

Certain medications, especially antibiotics, disturb the natural balance of gut bacteria, leading to antibiotic-associated diarrhoea. Laxatives, chemotherapy drugs, and blood pressure medications can also be culprits.

5. Chronic Digestive Disorders

Conditions like:

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) – including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
Celiac disease

can all cause persistent diarrhoea.

Types of Diarrhoea

1. Acute Diarrhoea

Lasts less than 14 days
Often caused by infections or food poisoning
Typically resolves without treatment

2. Persistent Diarrhoea

Lasts 14–30 days
May require stool testing and targeted treatment

3. Chronic Diarrhoea

Lasts more than 30 days
Often a sign of a chronic digestive disorder, requiring medical evaluation

Effective Treatment Options for Diarrhoea

1. Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORS)

Dehydration is the most dangerous side effect of diarrhoea. ORS solutions (containing water, salt, and sugar) are widely recommended by the WHO and can be bought over the counter or prepared at home.

How to make homemade ORS:

1 liter of clean water
6 teaspoons of sugar
1/2 teaspoon of salt

2. Anti-Diarrhoeal Medications

Loperamide (Imodium) helps reduce stool frequency
Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) treats nausea, gas, and cramping
Note: Avoid these medications in cases of bloody diarrhoea or infection

3. Probiotics for Diarrhoea

Probiotics like Lactobacillus and Saccharomyces boulardii help restore gut flora, especially after antibiotic use.

4. Antibiotics (For Bacterial Diarrhoea)

Doctors may prescribe antibiotics for confirmed bacterial infections, but overuse can cause resistance. Testing is recommended before initiating antibiotic therapy.

Natural Home Remedies for Diarrhoea Relief

Many home remedies can provide gentle and effective relief for mild diarrhoea:

1. BRAT Diet

This bland-food diet helps firm stools:

Bananas
Rice
Applesauce
Toast

2. Herbal Teas

Ginger tea: Reduces nausea and soothes the stomach
Chamomile tea: Eases gut spasms

3. Yogurt with Probiotics

Contains live cultures that replenish good bacteria in the gut

4. Stay Hydrated

Drink coconut water, clear broth, and electrolyte solutions frequently

5. Avoid These During Diarrhoea:

Dairy (except yogurt)
Spicy, fatty, or fried foods
Caffeine and alcohol
Artificial sweeteners like sorbitol

When to Seek Medical Help

Don’t ignore diarrhoea if it shows signs of complications. Call a doctor immediately if you notice:

Diarrhoea lasting more than 3 days
Blood or mucus in stools
High fever (>101°F)
Signs of dehydration: dry lips, sunken eyes, no urination
Severe abdominal pain
Diarrhoea in infants, elderly, or immunocompromised people

How to Prevent Diarrhoea

While not all types can be prevented, these strategies can significantly reduce your risk:

1. Practice Good Hygiene

Wash hands with soap before meals and after using the toilet
Carry a hand sanitizer when traveling

2. Drink Safe Water

Use boiled, filtered, or bottled water
Avoid ice cubes in unknown locations

3. Cook Food Thoroughly

Eat fresh, hot food
Avoid street food or raw meats when traveling

4. Get Vaccinated

Rotavirus vaccine is essential for infants to prevent severe diarrhoea
Cholera vaccine may be needed in endemic areas

5. Use Probiotics Preventively

Take probiotic supplements or fermented foods like curd and kefir if prone to gut issues

FAQs

Q: Is it contagious?
Yes, some forms caused by viruses or bacteria are highly contagious, especially in close-contact settings.

Q: What is the best medicine?
Over-the-counter loperamide is effective for short-term relief, but consult a doctor for persistent cases.

Q: Can I eat during diarrhoea?
Yes, stick to bland foods like rice, toast, and bananas while avoiding greasy or sugary items.

Q: How do I know if I’m dehydrated?
Look for dark urine, dizziness, dry mouth, and fatigue. Begin rehydrating immediately.

Final Thoughts: Managing Diarrhoea Effectively

Diarrhoea is not just an inconvenience—it’s your body’s way of flushing out irritants. By understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options, you can recover quickly and avoid complications. Always listen to your body, stay hydrated, and seek professional help when symptoms persist or worsen.

Whether you’re treating acute diarrhoea at home or managing chronic diarrhoea due to a medical condition, following expert-backed advice and practicing good hygiene can make all the difference in your health.

If you found this guide helpful, share it with someone who might need it. Stay well, stay hydrated!

Diarrhoea Explained: Causes, Cures & Fast Relief Tips