Understanding and Managing Diarrhoea

Written by Saema – Resident Naturopath at Choice Pharmacy 

Understanding and Managing Diarrhoea: What You Need to Know

Diarrhoea is a common condition that affects most people at some point. While it’s often short-lived and resolves on its own, it can also be a sign of something more serious, particularly if it persists or recurs frequently.

Types of Diarrhoea

There are three main types of diarrhoea:

1. Acute Diarrhoea
   This is the most common form and typically lasts a few days. It usually resolves without the need for treatment.

2. Persistent Diarrhoea
   This type lasts between two to four weeks. It may indicate an underlying infection or sensitivity and should be monitored closely.

3. Chronic Diarrhoea
   Lasting longer than four weeks or recurring over time, chronic diarrhoea may be linked to more serious health issues such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or food intolerances.

Common Causes

Diarrhoea can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:

• Viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections

• Food poisoning

• Certain medications (e.g. antibiotics)

• Food intolerances (e.g. lactose intolerance, coeliac disease)

• Digestive disorders such as IBS or IBD

• Recent gastrointestinal procedures or surgeries

Managing Diarrhoea at Home

1. Stay Hydrated
Diarrhoea causes the body to lose fluids and electrolytes, increasing the risk of dehydration. Drink plenty of water, clear broths, or diluted juices. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS), available at pharmacies, are especially helpful in restoring the correct balance of salts and sugars.

2. Follow a Gentle Diet
As your symptoms ease, gradually introduce bland, low-fibre foods. The BRAT diet—bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast—is a classic choice because it’s easy on the stomach and helps bulk up stools. Avoid fatty, spicy, or high-fibre foods, as well as dairy products and artificial sweeteners, for a few days.

3. Rest
Give your body the time it needs to heal. Avoid strenuous activity and focus on getting adequate sleep.

4. Consider Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help restore balance in your gut. They may reduce the duration and severity of diarrhoea, especially after antibiotic use.

5. Herbal Support
Slippery Elm, known for its stool-bulking and soothing effects on the digestive tract, can be a helpful natural remedy.

When to See a Doctor

While most cases of diarrhoea resolve quickly, you should seek medical attention if:

• It lasts more than three days without improvement

• You experience dehydration symptoms, such as dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness, or very little urination

• You have fever, blood in your stool, or severe abdominal pain

• You have a chronic health condition, or take medications affecting digestion

• The affected person is a baby or young child, as they are more vulnerable to dehydration

In cases of persistent or unexplained diarrhoea, your doctor may recommend stool testing to rule out infection or other gastrointestinal conditions before prescribing treatment, including herbal options.

Product Spotlight: DiaRelieve®

For families seeking fast relief, DiaRelieve® is an over-the-counter product designed for the symptomatic relief of diarrhoea. Suitable for both adults and children aged 1+, it comes in a pleasant orange-flavoured sachet that mixes easily with liquid.

DiaRelieve® contains Diosmectite, a natural clay that is not absorbed into the body. It works by binding excess fluid in the gut, helping to firm up stools and reduce frequency. Its high water absorption capacity allows it to hold up to eight times its weight in liquid—effectively helping restore normal bowel consistency.

Final Thoughts

While diarrhoea is usually not serious, it’s important to stay hydrated, rest, and eat appropriately to support your recovery. If in doubt, or if symptoms persist or worsen, speak to a healthcare professional for personalised advice.

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If you have any more questions, book in for a 15 mins free consultation or a full consultation with our naturopath. 

You can book our naturopath for in-store consultation online or e-mail to naturopath@choicepharmacy.com.au to organise a zoom consultation.