Brief Answer:

hold off solids, fluid replacement, probiotics

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

Acute (recent onset/start) of diarrhea is usually due to a temporary infection of the stomach and intestines.

It can be viral or bacterial, the viral infection is most common. Symptoms typically last less than a week, though can sometimes extend to 2 weeks.

If it goes on for a long period of time then causes, other than infection may be found.

Treatment for acute/recent onset diarrhea--

(1)since the stomach and intestine are inflamed, they cannot absorb solid food and this needs to be avoided till 4 hours pass with no diarrhea

When you have gone 4 hours with no diarrhea, then you can start taking small amounts of dry solids eg bread, plain rice, biscuits

If the small amounts are tolerated, then more can be used.

(2) Fluids are very important to prevent you from becoming weak and dehydrated. Oral hydration fluids or a very dilute sports drink can be used.

The sports drink would help give back electrolytes but has diluted because of the sugar content.

(3) Probiotics would also help either on their own or in some yogurts

(4) Pepto Bismol may also help stop diarrhea or stomach upset

Hope I have answered your query.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Michelle Gibson James, General & Family Physician

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