Diarrhoea: Help, Treatment and Safety
Quick, practical advice from your local pharmacy team.
Box pharmacy - Helping the local community in Corsham, Box, Neston, Biddestone, Colerne, Lacock and beyond.
About
Diarrhoea is one of the services treated under Common Ailments in Wales. Fortunately, there are many services available to help those who are dealing with this unpleasant condition. From over-the-counter remedies to consultations with healthcare professionals, Wales offers a range of options to ease the discomfort and symptoms of diarrhoea.
Hydration
Small sips of ORS frequently to prevent dehydration.
Diet
Start bland foods when appetite and symptoms improve.
Medication
Use antidiarrhoeals cautiously; seek advice for children.
When to visit your pharmacist
Pharmacy support and safe medicines
Pharmacists can advise on suitable over-the-counter options, dosage and whether a medicine is appropriate for you or your child. We can also help identify signs that need urgent attention and recommend when to see a GP or A&E. Tell the pharmacy team about other conditions and current medications to avoid interactions. For infants, pregnant or breastfeeding patients, or people with chronic illness, always ask before taking antidiarrhoeal medicines or antibiotics.
Get personalised medicine advice
Check interactions with current medicines
Rapid advice for children and elderly
Know when to seek urgent care
Choosing rehydration products
Products and home care
Oral rehydration solutions are the recommended first-line product to replace both fluids and essential salts lost during diarrhoea. Look for pre-formulated ORS sachets for adults and children and follow mixing instructions carefully. Anti-motility medicines such as loperamide can reduce frequency of stools in adults but are not suitable for young children or for diarrhoea with high fever and bloody stools. Probiotics may help some people recover faster, but choose evidence-based products and ask the pharmacy team for brands and dosing.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions answered below.
How can I tell if someone is dehydrated?
Look for dry mouth, reduced urine, sunken eyes, lethargy, or in infants reduced wet nappies. If present, start ORS and seek medical advice.
Can I take medicines to stop diarrhoea?
Adults can use antidiarrhoeal medicines like loperamide for short-term relief if no fever or blood is present; avoid in children without professional advice.
When should I see a doctor or go to A&E?
Seek urgent care for severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, high fever, blood in stools, signs of severe dehydration, or if symptoms worsen quickly.
Are antibiotics needed for diarrhoea?
Most diarrhoea is viral and does not need antibiotics; only certain bacterial infections require them after assessment.
Is it safe to travel with diarrhoea?
Avoid travel if severely unwell. Mild diarrhoea may be managed with ORS; seek healthcare if planning travel involving remote areas or long flights.