Let’s be honest: diarrhea isn’t exactly a dinner table topic.
But when it hits, it demands attention — fast.
Most of the time, it’s something minor. A meal that didn’t sit right. A passing stomach bug. But sometimes, it lingers. Or escalates. And then you’re left wondering: Do I need to see someone for this?
Here’s how to take care of your body at home — and how to know when it’s time to call in help.
How to Manage Diarrhea at Home
If your symptoms are mild and short-term, you can usually recover without medical intervention.
Here’s what helps:
- Hydration first — sip water, broth, or an oral rehydration solution (not just Gatorade)
- Rest — your body needs energy to heal
- Simple foods — bananas, rice, toast, applesauce (the classic BRAT diet)
- Avoid triggers — dairy, caffeine, alcohol, and greasy foods
- Over-the-counter support — loperamide (Imodium) can help, but not always recommended if there’s infection
You should start feeling better in 24–48 hours.
When It’s More Than “Something You Ate”
Some signs mean it’s time to stop guessing and get evaluated:
- Diarrhea lasting more than 2 days in adults (or 24 hours in kids)
- High fever (over 101.5°F)
- Blood in your stool
- Severe abdominal cramping
- Signs of dehydration: dry mouth, dizziness, no urine output
- Vomiting along with diarrhea, making it hard to rehydrate
- You’ve recently traveled abroad or taken antibiotics
These symptoms don’t mean it’s an emergency — but they do mean you shouldn’t go it alone.
Special Care for Kids, Older Adults, and High-Risk Groups
Dehydration can hit faster and harder in:
- Children under 5
- Older adults (65+)
- People with chronic conditions (diabetes, heart issues, immune disorders)
In these cases, it’s better to call early — even if symptoms seem mild at first. Waiting “just one more day” can lead to more serious complications.
What a Sickday Visit Can Do
You don’t have to travel, sit in a waiting room, or wonder if your symptoms are “serious enough.”
A Sickday visit brings professional care right to your door:
- We evaluate your symptoms and hydration status
- Check for signs of more serious infection or complications
- Recommend at-home treatment or send a prescription if needed
- Help you avoid unnecessary ER trips — and unnecessary suffering
It’s private, calm, and handled by licensed clinicians who’ve seen it all (yes — even that).
Better to Ask Early Than Suffer Longer
Diarrhea might feel like something you have to “just wait out” — but waiting too long can make things worse.
If you’re unsure whether to worry, don’t worry alone.
👉 Book a Sickday visit now
We’ll come to you — and help your body settle down, safely.
