Fast Ways to Relieve Diarrhea

Diarrhea can be uncomfortable, disruptive, and even dangerous if left untreated for too long. While many cases resolve on their own within a couple of days, there are several proven ways to ease symptoms quickly and safely.

Whether you’re dealing with a sudden bout of stomach trouble or helping a loved one recover, here’s what you need to know to get rid of diarrhea fast and when to call a doctor.

1. Use Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications

The fastest way to stop diarrhea is often with OTC anti-diarrheal medications. These work by slowing down gut movement or reducing inflammation.

• Loperamide (Imodium): Slows digestion so the body can absorb more water from stool, leading to firmer bowel movements.

• Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate): Helps reduce bacterial growth and inflammation in the digestive tract.

Use with caution and follow label directions. If diarrhea is caused by an infection, it’s sometimes better to let it run its course to eliminate the virus or bacteria.

2. Adjust Your Diet

What you eat and avoid can make a big difference in how quickly your symptoms improve.

Best Foods to Eat:

• BRAT diet: Bananas, rice, applesauce, toast

• Plain baked potatoes

• Skinless baked chicken

• Low-sugar cereals

• Chicken soup with saltine crackers

These bland, low-fiber options are gentle on the stomach and can help bulk up stool.

Add Fermented Foods:

Fermented foods offer natural probiotics that may help rebalance your gut microbiome:

• Yogurt (with live cultures)

• Kefir

• Sauerkraut

• Miso

• Sourdough bread

• Cottage cheese

• Green olives

Avoid spicy ferments like kimchi during active diarrhea, as spices may worsen symptoms.

Foods and Drinks to Avoid:

• Fried or greasy foods

• High-fiber grains and vegetables (like broccoli, cauliflower, beans)

• Dairy products (especially if you're sensitive to lactose)

• Berries, prunes, corn, and foods sweetened with sorbitol

• Coffee, sodas, alcohol, and sugary drinks

3. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration is one of the biggest risks during diarrhea. Replenish lost fluids and electrolytes with:

• Water

• Pediatric electrolyte drinks (e.g., Pedialyte)

• Broths or clear soups

• Diluted juice (avoid citrus)

Signs of dehydration in adults include dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness, and little to no urination. In children, look for no wet diapers in 3+ hours, crying without tears, or sunken eyes.

4. Try Natural Remedies

Some natural remedies may help soothe your digestive tract and slow diarrhea:

• Rice water: Slightly starchy and may reduce stool frequency

• Chamomile tea: Calming and may help relax digestive muscles

• Green tea: May reduce inflammation and support hydration

• Lemongrass tea: Used traditionally to relieve diarrhea (limited research)

How to Make Rice Water:

• Boil 1/2 cup of white rice in 1–2 cups of water for 10 minutes.

• Strain and cool.

• Drink 1 cup 2–3 times a day.

5. Consider Probiotics and Supplements

Probiotics can help shorten the duration of diarrhea by replenishing healthy bacteria in the gut. Look for products with Lactobacillus or Saccharomyces boulardii.

Other supplements that may help but should be used with medical guidance include:

• Glutamine: May support gut healing after infection

• Berberine-containing herbs (barberry, Oregon grape): Antimicrobial, but avoid during pregnancy

• Agrimony, bilberry leaf, or blackberry leaf: Traditional remedies consult a provider first

Always talk to your healthcare provider before trying herbal supplements, especially if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications.

6. Know When to See a Doctor

Most diarrhea clears up in 2–3 days. However, you should call your healthcare provider if you or a loved one experiences:

• Diarrhea lasting more than 2 days (adults) or 24 hours (children)

• Blood or pus in the stool

• High fever (over 102°F)

• Signs of dehydration (e.g., dark urine, dry mouth, dizziness)

• Severe abdominal pain

• Black or tarry stools

Babies under 3 months with diarrhea should be evaluated immediately do not wait.

7. Prevention Tips

While not all diarrhea can be avoided, you can reduce your risk with these strategies:

• Wash hands regularly, especially before eating and after bathroom use

• Avoid drinking unfiltered water when traveling

• Peel or wash fruits and veggies thoroughly

• Cook meat and seafood thoroughly

• Store food properly and avoid expired or spoiled items

• Get vaccinated for rotavirus or cholera if at risk

Final Thoughts

Diarrhea is unpleasant, but often short-lived. With the right care including hydration, bland foods, probiotics, and possibly OTC meds you can recover more quickly. If symptoms persist or worsen, don’t wait consult a healthcare provider.

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