Diarrhoea is very common, especially in summer and during the monsoon season. Most cases get better on their own within a few days. The main danger, particularly for babies, young children and older people, is dehydration – losing too much water and salts from the body.
Oral rehydration solution (ORS)
- ORS replaces the water and salts lost through diarrhoea and vomiting. It is the most important treatment for most cases of diarrhoea.
- Prepare ORS exactly as written on the pack, using clean (boiled and cooled) water. Do not add sugar or make it stronger.
- Give small, frequent sips. If the person vomits, wait about 10 minutes and then continue more slowly.
- Use freshly made ORS and follow the pack instructions on how long it can be kept.
Children
- Keep breastfeeding and keep feeding the child.
- WHO recommends zinc supplements for children with diarrhoea – ask a doctor or pharmacist for the right product and dose for your child’s age.
- Do not give anti-diarrhoea medicines to young children unless a doctor has prescribed them.
Get medical help urgently if there is:
- Blood in the stool
- Signs of dehydration: very little or no urine, sunken eyes, dry mouth, unusual sleepiness, or in babies a sunken soft spot on the head
- Diarrhoea in a baby under 6 months
- High fever or severe abdominal pain
- Vomiting that stops the person keeping any fluids down
- Diarrhoea lasting more than a few days
Preventing diarrhoea
- Wash hands with soap after using the toilet and before preparing food
- Drink safe, boiled or treated water
- Eat freshly cooked food and wash fruit and vegetables
Browse diarrhoea and vomiting medicines at Fatima Online Pharmacy.
Important
This article is general health information, not medical advice. It does not replace a consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Prescription-only medicines are supplied only against a valid prescription.
Last updated: 13 October 2026
