When should I go to the ER for watery diarrhea?

Schedule a doctor's visit for an adult with these symptoms:

Excessive thirst, dry mouth or skin, little or no urination, severe weakness, dizziness or lightheadedness, or dark-colored urine, which could indicate dehydration. Severe abdominal or rectal pain. Bloody or black stools. A fever of more than 102 F (39 C)

How long is too long for watery diarrhea?

If diarrhea lasts more than 2 days it may mean you have a more serious problem. Diarrhea may be either: Short-term (acute). Diarrhea that lasts 1 or 2 days and goes away.

What will the hospital do for severe diarrhea?

Diarrhea treatment depends on the underlying cause. For bacterial and parasitic infections, your doctor will prescribe anti-infective medicines, such as antibiotics. Preventing dehydration is the main focus of viral diarrhea treatment. This means replacing electrolytes and drinking plenty of fluids.

What are serious signs of diarrhea?

What causes diarrhea like water?

Watery diarrhea is commonly caused by a viral infection or food poisoning from eating undercooked meat or rotten foods. It can be serious if it causes dehydration. Keep an eye out for blood in the stool, and be sure to drink water and fluids with electrolytes. Ezekiel Richardson, MD.

When Should You See a Doctor about Diarrhea?

How do I stop uncontrollable watery diarrhea?

Drink plenty of liquids, including water, broths and juices. Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Add semisolid and low-fiber foods gradually as your bowel movements return to normal. Try soda crackers, toast, eggs, rice or chicken.

Why won't my watery diarrhea go away?

Some infections, food allergies and intolerances, digestive tract problems, abdominal surgery, and long-term use of medicines can cause chronic diarrhea. Some infections from bacteria and parasites that cause diarrhea do not go away quickly without treatment.

Should I drink water after watery diarrhea?

These things may help you feel better if you have diarrhea: Drink 8 to 10 glasses of clear fluids every day. Water is best. Drink at least 1 cup (240 milliliters) of liquid every time you have a loose bowel movement.

Which fluid is given in diarrhea?

Give oral rehydration solution (ORS) immediately to dehydrated patients who can sit up and drink. If ORS is not available, you should provide water, broth, and/or other fluids. You should not provide drinks with a high sugar content, such as juice, soft drinks, or sports drinks, because they could worsen diarrhea.

What is the best medication to take for diarrhea?

What happens if Imodium doesn't work?

If you have constipation with Imodium, stop taking the drug. Constipation may last for a few days after you take Imodium, but it typically goes away on its own. And drinking plenty of water can help ease constipation. However, if you have constipation that doesn't improve after a few days, see your doctor.

How long does it take for stool to return to normal after diarrhea?

Diarrhoea is passing looser, watery or more frequent poo (stools) than is normal for you. It affects most people from time to time and is usually nothing to worry about. It can be distressing and unpleasant. It normally clears up in a few days to a week.

What is the first treatment for diarrhea?

Give an oral rehydration solution (such as Pedialyte, Enfalyte, or a store brand) to replace lost fluids. It has the right amount of water, sugar, and salt for kids. You can buy it at drugstores or supermarkets without a prescription. Offer small amounts often by syringe, spoon, or cup.

What are the three rules for home treatment of diarrhea?

Is it better to treat diarrhea or let it run its course?

Since diarrhea is your body's way of getting rid of toxins, it is best to let it run its course. However, you may use over-the-counter antidiarrheal remedies for convenience, including: Attapulgite (Kaopectate) Loperamide (Imodium)

How long should you treat diarrhea at home?

In most cases, it is possible to treat diarrhea at home without consulting a doctor. However, if diarrhea lasts for more than 2 days , seek medical advice to avoid complications. Other reasons to see a doctor for diarrhea include: blood or pus in bowel movements.

How do I get my stomach back to normal after diarrhea?

The BRAT diet—bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast—and other bland, low-fat foods may be ideal when you have diarrhea. As you start to feel better, you will want to add other foods back in slowly. The goal is to ensure you get enough nutrients, without further aggravating your digestive tract.

How do you get solid poop after diarrhea?

Dietary Recommendations for Diarrhea:

Try sources of soluble fibre to help firm up stool. Limit fried or fatty foods since these can worsen diarrhea. Some high fibre foods may contribute to diarrhea. Foods with lots of sugar may worsen diarrhea, such as regular pop, candy, large quantities of juice, and chocolate milk.

Why am I still having diarrhea after taking Imodium?

Imodium will usually help to slow down your acute diarrhea in the first hour, but if your diarrhea continues you may need to take additional doses in the same day. Take no more than the recommended maximum dose per day.

How long should you let diarrhea go before taking Imodium?

Take IMODIUM™ straight after your first bout – it can relieve diarrhea in just one hour so your body can start to recover sooner. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids and/or taking a rehydration treatment. Avoid fizzy drinks and rich or spicy foods.

Does Imodium stop diarrhea instantly?

However if diarrhoea does occur, IMODIUM can quickly relieve the symptoms within one hour and can help you get your body back in harmony again. Here are some everyday eating habits that can upset your digestive system: Eating too quickly.