Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS· Last reviewed
Most diarrhoea is caused by an infection and settles in a few days. The most important thing is not to stop it at all costs, but to prevent dehydration — especially in children and the elderly. Here is how to manage it.
Drink plenty of fluids; use ORS (oral rehydration solution) to replace salts
Eat small, bland meals when you can (rice, banana, toast)
Continue feeding children and breastfeeding babies
Zinc supplements help in children (as advised)
Wash hands well to avoid spreading infection
Avoid very sugary, fatty or spicy foods until better
When to see a doctor urgently
Signs of dehydration: little urine, sunken eyes, drowsiness, dizziness
Blood or black stools, or severe abdominal pain
High fever, or diarrhoea lasting more than a few days
A baby, elderly or frail person who cannot keep fluids down
Rehydration comes first. ORS is the mainstay for diarrhoea. Anti-diarrhoeal medicines are not suitable for everyone (avoid in children and if there is blood or high fever). MedDroid gives general information, not a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
How do I stop diarrhea fast?
Focus on rehydration with fluids and ORS, and eat bland foods as tolerated. Most infections settle on their own; anti-diarrhoeal medicines are not right for everyone, so check first.
What should I eat with diarrhea?
Simple, bland foods like rice, bananas, toast and khichdi are gentle. Keep drinking fluids and ORS, and avoid very fatty, spicy or sugary foods for a while.
When is diarrhea an emergency?
Seek care for signs of dehydration, blood in the stool, severe pain, high fever, or diarrhoea that lasts more than a few days — and quickly for babies and the elderly.
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.