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Chronic Care Diarrhea
Chronic Care Diarrhea

Diarrhea treatment available online today

In order to treat your diarrhea, consult with one of our board-certified primary care doctors online today to get a prescription to get rid of diarrhea. Get a new prescription to treat diarrhea or refill an existing prescription today.*

Ease abdominal pain, nausea, and more Manage diarrhea concerns conveniently Get relief with doctor-recommended prescriptions
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*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor's discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how to save up to 80% with our prescription discount card. PlushCare doctors cannot treat all cases of diarrhea. Also, not all case of diarrhea require a prescription to improve. Our primary care physicians can conduct an initial evaluation of your symptoms but may need to refer you to a specialist or for in-person treatment. If you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

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Learn about diarrhea

Diarrhea occurs when your stools are loose and watery and can be caused by a variety of factors. If you have diarrhea, you may also feel the urge to have bowel movements multiple times a day.

Diarrhea can be acute or chronic. While acute diarrhea lasts 1–2 days, chronic diarrhea can persist for several weeks. When diarrhea symptoms persist, it usually indicates other health problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or a more serious disorder like irritable bowel disease (IBD).

 

Diarrhea causes

Diarrhea can occur as a symptom of several conditions or circumstances. Some potential causes of diarrhea include:

 

  • Viral infections, including rotavirus and viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu)

  • Bacterial infections, including Salmonella and E. coli infection

  • Parasitic infections, including Cryptosporidium enteritis

  • Digestive tract problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

  • Food sensitivities and allergies

  • Adverse reactions to medications

  • Taking antibiotics (antibiotic-associated diarrhea)

  • Gallbladder or stomach surgery


Rotavirus is the most common cause of acute diarrhea worldwide. In the United States, most people develop diarrhea due to food poisoning from eating contaminated foods, according to the CDC.

Diarrhea symptoms

The characteristic symptom of diarrhea is frequent, loose, and watery stools. Diarrhea may also cause frequent urges to have a bowel movement.

The symptoms of diarrhea vary from person to person, and a person's symptoms will depend on the specific cause of their diarrhea. Common diarrhea symptoms include:

 

  • Nausea or upset stomach

  • Abdominal pain

  • Cramping

  • Bloating

  • Lost fluids (dehydration)

  • A frequent urge to have a bowel movement

  • A large volume of stools


When the body loses water due to frequent bowel movements, you may experience dehydration. Dehydration can be a serious side effect of diarrhea. Symptoms include:

 

  • Feeling thirsty

  • Having a dry mouth and nostrils

  • Fatigue and lightheadedness

  • Fast heart rate

  • Not urinating as often

  • Sunken soft spot on a baby's head

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How to treat diarrhea

Treatment for diarrhea depends on its cause. If your diarrhea doesn't go away in a few days, talk to your doctor to determine the underlying cause of your diarrhea and start an appropriate treatment plan.

 

Treating diarrhea usually involves:

 

  • Rehydration therapy: In most cases, treating diarrhea involves rehydrating. In other words, you'll need to drink bottled water or electrolyte drinks to replace lost fluids. If you have severe dehydration, you may get fluids through intravenous (IV) therapy.

  • Over-the-counter medication: If you have mild acute diarrhea, over-the-counter medications can help. For example, loperamide (Imodium) or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol or Kaopectate) can help ease symptoms.

  • Home treatments: Make sure to drink plenty of water and other electrolyte-balanced fluids, such as broths, fruit juices, and sports drinks. Instead of consuming fatty or fried foods, follow a bland diet (such as the BRAT diet) until your symptoms improve to avoid making diarrhea worse.

  • Prescription medication: If your diarrhea is caused by a viral, parasitic, or bacterial infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or other medications.

Diarrhea medications

Most cases of acute diarrhea can be treated at home with over-the-counter medications, such as loperamide (Imodium) or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol or Kaopectate).

If your symptoms don't improve in a few days with OTC treatment, talk to your doctor. If your diarrhea is caused by a bacterial or parasitic infection, you'll need to see your healthcare provider for treatment.

Depending on the cause of your diarrhea, your doctor may prescribe:

Prescription loperamide (Imodium)

This anti-motility agent works to slow down your diarrhea frequency

Antibiotics

If you have a bacterial infection or parasite, your healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics to combat the infection. Signs of bacterial infections include fever with bloody diarrhea. Parasitic infections usually include chronic diarrhea and weight loss and need to be evaluated with stool tests to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Medications for specific conditions

Chronic diarrhea may be related to other health conditions, including Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and intestinal tract problems. Once your doctor reviews your medical history, they can prescribe medication to manage and prevent diarrhea.

Probiotics

Probiotic supplements can help re-establish the balance of "good" and "bad" bacteria in your gut biome. Always talk to your doctor before starting probiotics or other supplements.

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How to prevent diarrhea

Diarrhea can happen for several reasons, and it's not always possible to prevent it. However, you can lower your risk of developing diarrhea by taking preventive measures:

 

  • Wash your cooking and food preparation areas frequently.

  • Serve food immediately after preparing it.

  • Always thaw frozen food in the refrigerator.

  • Refrigerate leftovers promptly.

 

When you're traveling, make sure everything you eat and drink is safe to avoid traveler's diarrhea, especially if you travel to developing countries. Travel safety tips include:

 

  • Avoid drinking tap water or using it to brush your teeth.

  • Don't drink milk that hasn't been pasteurized.

  • Avoid eating raw fruits unless you wash and peel them.

  • Make sure meat and shellfish are hot when served.

  • Avoid eating foods from food trucks and street vendors.

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When to see a doctor for diarrhea

Most cases of acute diarrhea improve within a few days. However, if your diarrhea symptoms persist for longer than two days, you should seek medical attention. Persistent diarrhea can significantly increase your risk of dehydration.

Diarrhea can also be a symptom of serious medical conditions. Seek medical attention if you experience diarrhea with any of the following symptoms:

 

  • Frequent vomiting

  • Bloody stools, or stools that look black or tarry

  • Six or more loose stools in 24 hours

  • Severe abdominal or rectal pain

  • Dehydration symptoms

  • Fever of 102 °F (38.9 °C) or higher

 

Diarrhea treatment FAQs

What are the symptoms of diarrhea?

The most common symptom of diarrhea is watery, loose stool. If you have diarrhea, you may also experience a frequent urge to empty your bowels.

The symptoms of diarrhea vary depending on the specific cause of diarrhea. Some common symptoms include:

  • A frequent urge to use the bathroom

  • Loss of body fluids (dehydration)

  • Abdominal pain or cramps

  • Nausea (upset stomach)

  • Swelling or bloating

  • Feeling unable to control your bowels (incontinence)

 

Persistent diarrhea can also cause dehydration, which can turn into a serious medical condition. Dehydration is especially dangerous in children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

How long is too long for diarrhea?

If you experience diarrhea for more than two days, seek medical attention. While most cases of acute diarrhea improve within a few days, persistent symptoms can lead to dehydration. If left untreated, dehydration can be life-threatening.

If your diarrhea gets worse or symptoms don't improve with over-the-counter medications, talk to your doctor. Chronic diarrhea can be a symptom of a medical condition, such as IBS.

If your diarrhea is caused by a parasitic or bacterial infection, you'll need stool testing followed prescription medication to treat the infection. A PlushCare doctor may be able to provide you with these prescriptions when necessary, but may also need to help guide you toward in-person or specialist care with referrals and resources.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience diarrhea with:

  • Severe abdominal or rectal pain

  • A fever higher than 102 °F (38.9 °C)

  • Bloody stool, or stool that appears black and tarry

  • Severe dehydration symptoms including fainting

  • Six or more loose stools in the last 24 hours

Why do I have diarrhea?

In the United States, a common cause of diarrhea is food poisoning from eating contaminated foods. You can get food poisoning from eating:

  • Fresh, raw produce that hasn't been washed

  • Raw or undercooked meat, poultry, and eggs

  • Unpasteurized dairy products and fruit juices

  • Processed and ready-to-eat meals, such as hot dogs

  • Foods that aren't properly handled during preparation


There are several other potential causes of diarrhea, including:

  • Dietary intolerances or sensitivities to certain foods (i.e., lactose intolerance or celiac disease)

  • Eating foods that upset your stomach, such as fried or fatty foods

  • Viral infections, including rotavirus and viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu)

  • Bacterial infections, including Salmonella and E. coli infection

  • Parasitic infections

  • Side effects of certain medications, such as antibiotics

  • Gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

3 simple steps to request your diarrhea prescription today

How It Works Step 1
Step 1

Book a diarrhea treatment appointment.

Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
How It Works Step 2
Step 2

Talk to your medical provider regarding your diarrhea symptoms.

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
How It Works Step 3
Step 3

Pick up a prescription for diarrhea, if provided

We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.

Related conditions to diarrhea

Celiac disease

Crohn's disease

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)

Ulcerative colitis (UC)

Diarrhea treatment pricing details

To request diarrhea treatment and get a new prescription or refill on your prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week
  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team
  • Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests
  • Free memberships for your family
  • Cancel anytime

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*If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund. Please note that any medication or lab work costs are not included. Please refer to our refund policy for additional information.

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PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.