Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea is a common digestive condition that causes you to have frequent, loose, or watery poos. It’s usually nothing to worry about, and often clears up within a few days.

You might have diarrhoea if you have:

Frequent poos that are loose or watery
Urgency to use the toilet
Abdominal cramps or discomfort
  • Viral or bacterial infections, such as gastroenteritis or food poisoning
  • Consumption of contaminated food or water
  • Food intolerances or sensitivities, such as lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity
  • Side effects of medications, including antibiotics or certain antacids
  • Frequent passing of loose or watery poo
  • Urgency to use the toilet, often accompanied by abdominal cramps or discomfort
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Fever or dehydration in severe cases
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids
  • Eat bland, easy-to-digest foods such as rice, bananas, or toast
  • Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and high-fat or spicy foods, which can make your diarrhoea worse
  • Use over-the-counter medications such as loperamide to help reduce the frequency of your poos
  • Speak with a pharmacist if you have severe pains, fever or notice blood in your poo

Do you have diarrhoea?

Don’t wait for a GP appointment.

Get advice & prescriptions from a trusted pharmacy now:
Complete an easy online questionnaire
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What is Pharmacy First?

Pharmacy First is a new NHS-funded scheme that helps you quickly get the advice & treatment you need from a pharmacy, without needing to see a GP.

The conditions covered by Pharmacy First are:

Video consultations & advice are free of charge. If you pay for prescriptions you will be charged the prescription rate of £9.65 per prescription item.