Diarrhoea can come suddenly and cause dehydration within hours. Acting early makes a big difference. Here are six safe, doctor-recommended steps you can take immediately to control diarrhoea at home.
1. Start ORS Immediately
The most important step is to prevent dehydration. Sip ORS solution every 10–15 minutes.
Avoid energy drinks or fruit juices, as they worsen diarrhoea.
2. Follow a Light, Binding Diet
Choose low-fibre, easy-to-digest foods such as:
Bananas Rice Curd Toast Khichdi
Avoid oily food, milk, raw vegetables, and spicy meals.
3. Take Safe Over-the-Counter Medication
You may take:
Zinc 20 mg once daily (helps reduce duration) Racecadotril (if recommended by your doctor)
Avoid taking loperamide (Imodium) in high fever or bloody stools.
4. Maintain Good Hydration
Apart from ORS, drink:
Coconut water Lemon water (not too sweet) Light soups
Take small, frequent sips instead of large amounts at once.
5. Avoid Dairy and Caffeine
Milk, coffee, and tea may irritate the gut and worsen symptoms. Curd/yogurt is the exception—it is safe.
6. Rest and Monitor Warning Signs
Give your gut time to recover.
Seek medical attention if you notice:
Blood in stool High fever Severe weakness No improvement in 24–48 hours
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How long does diarrhoea usually last?
Most viral or food-related diarrhoea settles within 24–72 hours with proper hydration and diet.
2. Can I take antibiotics for diarrhoea?
Avoid self-medicating with antibiotics. Most diarrhoea is viral and does not need antibiotics unless prescribed.
3. What should I drink during diarrhoea?
ORS, coconut water, clear soups, and plain water. Avoid packaged juices, fizzy drinks, or sweetened beverages.
4. Is curd good during diarrhoea?
Yes. Curd contains probiotics that help restore gut balance.
5. When should I visit a doctor?
If symptoms persist beyond 48 hours, you have severe dehydration, blood in stool, or continuous vomiting.