Diarrhoea (Guidance for Adults Only)
Diarrhoea is where you frequently pass watery or loose poo. Some people may also have other symptoms,
depending on the cause. It affects most people from time to time and is usually nothing to worry about,
however it can be distressing and unpleasant until it passes, which normally takes a few days to a week.
If you have a stomach bug, you could be infectious to others. You're most infectious from when the
symptoms start until 2 days after they've passed. Stay off work until the symptoms have stopped for 2 days
(48 hours).
Managing your condition
How can I avoid triggers/ suggested lifestyle changes
Diarrhoea is often caused by an infection. You can reduce your risk by making sure you maintain high
standards of hygiene.
For example, you should:
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after going to the toilet and before eating or
preparing food
Clean the toilet, including the handle and the seat, with disinfectant after each bout of diarrhoea
Avoid sharing towels, flannels, cutlery or utensils with others
Wash soiled clothing and bed linen separately from other clothes and at the highest temperature
possible – for example, 60˚C or higher for linen – after first removing any poo into the toilet
Avoid returning to work until at least 48 hours after the last episode of diarrhoea
How do I treat?
Most cases of diarrhoea clear up after a few days without treatment; however diarrhoea can lead to
dehydration, so to avoid this
Hydration - Drink plenty of fluids. Frequent small sips of water until symptoms stop.
Oral Rehydration Solutions - Your pharmacist may suggest using if you are particularly at risk of
dehydration. These replace lost fluids along with electrolytes.
Medicine – There are medicines to stop diarrhoea for a few hours, these are not suitable for young
children
Eating - You should eat solid food as soon as you feel able to. If you're breastfeeding or bottle
feeding your baby and they have diarrhoea, you should try to feed them as normal.
Stay at home – to prevent spreading any infection to others, stay home until at least 48 hours after
the last episode of diarrhoea.
Speak to your pharmacist - for advice if you’re not sure which type of medicine is best for you and
your symptoms.
When should I seek advice?
It is advisable to seek further advice if you notice any of the following:
You are still dehydrated despite using oral rehydration sachets
Have bloody diarrhoea or bleeding from your bottom
Have green or yellow vomit
Have diarrhoea for more than 7 days or vomiting for more than 2 days
More information is available at the following website
NHS website - www.nhs.uk
Or visit your local pharmacy for advice
The ‘Be self-care aware’ campaign was created by NHS Derby and Derbyshire Clinical Commissioning Group and is
reproduced here with their kind permission.
V1. Approved by APC Mar19 Page 1 of 1
