Understanding Diarrhoea - From Causes to Cures
Diarrhoea is a common but unpleasant condition characterised by frequent and loose stools. People of all ages can be affected by this condition, and its symptoms can range from mild inconvenience to serious health concerns, especially in young children and the elderly. Diarrhoea can significantly impact daily life, causing dehydration, discomfort, and even more serious complications if it is left untreated. This post aims to provide a comprehensive overview of this condition, covering its causes, symptoms, and effective treatment options. By the end of this post, you will learn to recognise the signs of diarrhoea early, manage its symptoms, and seek appropriate medical attention when necessary.
What Is Diarrhoea?
Diarrhoea is the condition when a person has three or more liquid stools in one day. People with this condition notice an increase in the volume, frequency, and wateriness of their bowel movements. Most cases of diarrhoea are mild and go away on their own or with the help of over-the-counter medications. However, some cases can become severe and require medical attention at the hospital.
Causes
Diarrhoea occurs when your body either doesn't absorb enough water from your poop or releases too much fluid into it, making the stool watery and loose. Its causes can be categorised into two types - short-term and long-term.
Short-term causes of diarrhoea are:
1. Viral gastroenteritis
2. Food poisoning
3. A change in diet
4. Drinking too much alcohol
5. Certain food ingredients
6. COVID-19
7. Waterborne parasites
8. Stress
Long-term causes of diarrhoea are:
1. Inflammatory bowel disease
2. Diverticular disease
3. Irritable bowel syndrome
4. Malabsorption syndromes
5. Food intolerances (like lactose intolerance)
Also, note that individuals with weakened immune systems (immunosuppressed people) are more prone to experiencing persistent diarrhoea after a case of gastroenteritis.

Symptoms
Loose and watery stools are the most common sign of diarrhoea. Some of its other symptoms are:
1. Nausea and vomiting
2. Excess gas
3. Bloating
4. Fever
5. Abdominal pain
6. Loss of appetite
7. Headache
8. Urgency to go to the toilet
Some individuals (especially older adults and children) also develop dehydration when they have diarrhoea.
Treatment
Most cases of diarrhoea resolve on their own or with the help of anti diarrhoea medicine. However, visiting a doctor is recommended if the condition worsens or continues for more than 2 days despite taking medication.
Doctors often ask patients to undergo tests like blood or stool tests to understand the cause of the diarrhoea. In extreme cases, doctors may even recommend tests like endoscopy or colonoscopy to patients. Meanwhile, it is also important to understand when to seek urgent care in case of diarrhoea. Well, visiting the emergency department of the nearest hospital is recommended if the patient has:
1. Severe dehydration
2. Heavy rectal bleeding
3. Intense abdominal pain, etc.
Buying Antidiarrhoeal Medicines Online
You can buy anti diarrhoea medicine online in New Zealand from the official web store of Dominion Road Pharmacy. Established in 2016, we deliver authentic medicines, and beauty products across Auckland, and beyond. We offer DiaRelieve® in the anti-diarrhoea medication segment. Both children over 1 year and adults can use this medicine. Visit the product page to learn more about DiaRelieve®.