Diarrhoea is common and is often caused by a stomach bug and should stop in a few days.
You can usually treat yourself or your child at home. The most important thing is to have lots of fluids to avoid dehydration.
A pharmacist can help if:
- you or your child (over 5 years) have signs of dehydration – such as dark, smelly pee or peeing less than usual
- you need to stop diarrhoea for a few hours
They may recommend:
- oral rehydration sachets you mix with water to make a drink
- medicine to stop diarrhoea for a few hours (like loperamide) – not suitable for children under 12