Diarrhea is an unpleasant condition that has a handful of causes. Maybe you picked up a virus over the weekend. Or, you might have eaten something at Aunt Karen’s potluck that made your stomach upset. At the end of the day, it doesn’t really matter how you got diarrhea. What does matter is knowing how to get rid of diarrhea and stop its symptoms.
Wait It Out.
Typically, diarrhea symptoms will go away on their own – you just have to wait it out. While not fun, the virus or bacteria will usually run its course, and you’ll be back to normal again in a day or so. However, since your body expels a lot of fluids when you have diarrhea, it’s important to stay hydrated throughout the day to keep your body in its best fighting condition. Drinking electrolytes (sometimes found in sports drinks) may also be helpful.
Eat Bland Foods.
Another way to stop diarrhea is by following the BRAT diet: bananas, rice, apple sauce and toast. All these foods are relatively bland, and, therefore, are gentle on your already tumultuous tummy. While not a surefire way to solve your bathroom woes, it may help you feel better and calm the storm in your intestines.
Kill the Bacteria That Causes Diarrhea.
There are plenty of over-the-counter treatment options for diarrhea, but most simply help you manage your symptoms. When diarrhea is caused by something you ate, Pepto Diarrhea is your go-to. Pepto Diarrhea actually helps treat your problem by targeting and killing the bacteria that causes many cases of diarrhea. Plus, it coats your stomach to provide fast relief. Killing the cause instead of just treating the symptoms…who can argue with that? Definitely not your gut.
See a Doctor.
As mentioned earlier, most cases of diarrhea settle themselves within a day or so. However, take note if you find that you experience confusion, irritability, dry skin, headaches, a rapid heart rate, a small amount of urine, or dark urine. These symptoms could indicate a more serious condition that would need to be diagnosed by a doctor.
