Diarrhoea and loose stools: causes, care and when to seek help
Diarrhoea usually means passing loose or watery stools more often than normal. It is very common and is often short-lived, particularly when caused by a viral infection or dietary trigger. Ongoing or recurrent diarrhoea should be reviewed to identify the cause and guide treatment.
This page explains how GPs assess diarrhoea, what usually helps, when tests are considered, and which symptoms need urgent review.
These articles are intended as educational sources, not diagnostic nor taking place of a proper medical assessment. If you need help, please book an appointment with one of our GP’s.
What counts as diarrhoea
Diarrhoea may include:
- Loose or watery stools
- Increased stool frequency
- Urgency or difficulty holding stools
- Abdominal cramping or bloating
A change from your usual bowel habit is often more important than stool frequency alone.
- Blood in the stool
- Persistent fever or severe abdominal pain
- Signs of dehydration
- Unintentional weight loss
- Diarrhoea lasting more than 2 to 3 weeks
- New bowel symptoms after the age of 50
Common causes of diarrhoea
Short-term (acute) causes
- Viral or bacterial gastroenteritis
- Food poisoning
- Dietary triggers or excess alcohol
- Antibiotic use
Acute diarrhoea usually settles within a few days.
Ongoing or recurrent causes
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Food intolerances
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Coeliac disease
- Medication side effects
- Thyroid disease
The pattern and duration of symptoms help guide assessment.
How GPs assess diarrhoea
Assessment focuses on:
- Duration and frequency of symptoms
- Stool appearance and presence of blood or mucus
- Associated symptoms such as fever, pain or weight loss
- Recent travel, infections or antibiotics
- Medical history and medications
Examination and investigations are guided by risk factors and red flags.
When tests may be considered
Most people with short-lived diarrhoea do not need tests.
A GP may consider investigations if:
- Diarrhoea lasts more than 2 weeks
- There is blood in the stool
- There is weight loss, anaemia or night symptoms
- Symptoms are severe or worsening
- There is a family history of bowel disease
Tests may include blood tests, stool tests or referral for further assessment where appropriate.
Self care for diarrhoea
For mild, short-term diarrhoea:
- Keep well hydrated with water or oral rehydration solutions
- Eat small, simple meals as appetite returns
- Avoid alcohol and very fatty foods initially
Anti-diarrhoeal medication may help in some situations, but should be used cautiously and avoided if there is fever or blood in the stool unless advised by a clinician.
Managing ongoing diarrhoea
If diarrhoea persists, management depends on the cause and may include:
- Reviewing diet and triggers
- Treating underlying conditions
- Adjusting medications
- Targeted treatments based on test results
A GP can help develop a plan based on your symptoms and test findings.
Diarrhoea and dehydration
Diarrhoea increases the risk of dehydration, particularly in:
- Older adults
- Young children
- People with other medical conditions
Signs of dehydration include thirst, reduced urine output, dizziness and dark urine.
When to seek GP review
Consider GP review if:
- Diarrhoea is ongoing or recurrent
- Symptoms affect daily life or sleep
- Over-the-counter measures are not helping
- You are unsure of the cause
- There are changes in your usual bowel pattern
Further Reading and Hub Links
Visit our Gut Health hub or browse more health topics in the AccessGP Knowledge Base.
If diarrhoea or loose stools are ongoing or concerning, a GP can assess your symptoms, advise on investigations if needed, and recommend appropriate treatment.
Last reviewed by Dr Zamiel Hussain, GMC registered GP
Updated: 3 January 2026