Managing diarrhea

Stay hydrated and eat right

• Drink plenty of fluids like water, thin soup, herbal teas or rehydration solutions.
• Avoid triggering foods like citrus fruits, spicy, fatty, or fried items.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Eat simple, bland foods that are easy to digest like bananas, rice, fruit/vegetable puree, or toast.
• Gradually introduce probiotic-rich foods, like yogurt.
• Gradually bring back proteins and then fats once the diarrhea improves.

Consult about medicines

• Speak with a healthcare professional about medicines to ease diarrhea.
• The healthcare team may adjust the medication schedule if the diarrhea is severe.

Practice good hygiene

• Wash hands well after using the toilet and before handling or eating food.
• Keep the anal area clean and dry with a gentle, unscented soap.
• Use over-the-counter creams and ointments for discomfort or skin irritation.
• Regularly clean and disinfect bathrooms, the kitchen, and utensils to limit infection spread.

Ensure comfort

• Make toilet access easy and comfortable.
• Use a bedside commode or adult diapers if moving is hard.
• A bedpan may be required if the person receiving care is immobile.

Monitor stools and symptoms

• Keep a record of stool frequency, consistency, and color.
• Note any related symptoms such as pain, fever, offensive smell or blood in stool, and report these to the healthcare team.

If you are unsure about what is causing or how to manage the diarrhea, speak to your nurse or doctor, they can advise how to best manage it.