Fast, Effective Online Treatment for Diarrhea

Find relief from diarrhea symptoms with HLTHi's online service. Our board-certified doctors are available 24/7 to evaluate your condition, suggest treatments, and prescribe medication if necessary—all from the comfort of your home.
For: Ages 18+ (Under 18 with parental consent)
Estimated wait time: 5 minutes or less
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Who is this right for?

Our board-certified doctors can assess your symptoms, create personalized treatment plans, and advise on when to seek further care if necessary. HLTHi’s online diarrhea treatment is perfect for those who:

You have symptoms
Are experiencing mild to moderate diarrhea symptoms, including loose stools, abdominal cramping, or signs of dehydration.
Need fast care
Require quick access to medical care without the need to visit an urgent care center or wait for an in-person appointment.
You need medication
Are looking for prescription medications or over-the-counter options to effectively alleviate symptoms.
You want medical advice
Seek expert advice on managing your symptoms and preventing further discomfort.

Treatment options for Diarrhea

Commonly prescribed medications and remedies for diarrhea include:

  • Anti-diarrheal medications – Such as loperamide (Imodium) to help slow bowel movements.
  • Rehydration solutions – Electrolyte drinks or oral rehydration salts to prevent dehydration.
  • Probiotics – Supplements that help restore healthy gut bacteria balance.
  • Antibiotics – In cases of bacterial infections, medications like azithromycin or ciprofloxacin may be prescribed.
  • Dietary adjustments – Doctors may recommend a BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) to ease digestion.

Your provider will assess your symptoms and determine the most appropriate treatment plan for fast relief.

How a virtual visit for diarrhea works:

Our virtual care process is designed to be straightforward and user-friendly, offering you professional healthcare from the comfort of your home. Whether you're experiencing minor symptoms or need advice on a more persistent issue, our licensed providers are ready to assist. Here's how easy it is to begin:

Step 1.
Begin by creating your HLTHi account on your phone or computer. This will only take a few minutes.
Step 2.
Ask about your symptoms, recent travel, diet, and any medications you are currently taking.
Step 3.
Explore potential causes, such as viral infections, food poisoning, or stress, to better understand your symptoms.
Step 4.
Suggest appropriate treatments, which may include anti-diarrheal medications, rehydration solutions, or antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected.
Step 5.
Provide guidance on dietary adjustments to help ease symptoms and promote recovery.
Advise when to seek in-person care if your symptoms are severe or persistent

Common questions you may have about diarrhea

Can anxiety cause diarrhea?

Yes, anxiety can lead to diarrhea. When you're anxious or stressed, your body's fight-or-flight response can impact your digestive system, resulting in symptoms like diarrhea, stomach cramps, or nausea. This happens because anxiety triggers the release of hormones and chemicals that can speed up digestion. If you often experience digestive issues due to anxiety, a HLTHi provider can help manage both your mental health and gastrointestinal symptoms effectively. This occurs because anxiety activates the release of hormones and chemicals that can accelerate digestion. If you frequently experience digestive issues related to anxiety, a HLTHi provider can assist in managing both your mental health and gastrointestinal symptoms effectively.

What to eat when you have diarrhea?

When experiencing diarrhea, it's advisable to consume bland, easily digestible foods that can help solidify stools and calm the stomach. The BRAT diet—bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast—is often recommended. Other gentle options include plain crackers, boiled potatoes, oatmeal, and broth-based soups. It's important to avoid spicy, greasy, or high-fiber foods, as they may exacerbate symptoms. Staying hydrated with water and electrolyte drinks is crucial. If you're uncertain about what to eat or if symptoms persist, HLTHi's on-demand doctors can provide personalized advice.

How long does diarrhea last?

Diarrhea typically lasts between 1 to 3 days and often resolves on its own with adequate rest and hydration. However, certain causes, such as viral infections, food poisoning, or specific medications, can extend symptoms up to a week. If diarrhea continues beyond 3 days, becomes severe, or is accompanied by symptoms like fever, dehydration, or bloody stools, it is crucial to seek medical attention. HLTHi's providers are available around the clock to evaluate your symptoms and suggest the most effective treatment.

How to stop diarrhea?

To alleviate diarrhea, consider using anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide (Imodium) to reduce bowel movements. It's crucial to stay hydrated by drinking water, electrolyte beverages, or oral rehydration solutions to replenish lost fluids. Consuming bland foods such as bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (BRAT diet) can help calm your stomach. Probiotics may also aid in maintaining gut health and restoring balance. If symptoms persist, worsen, or are accompanied by fever or dehydration, consult a HLTHi provider for tailored care and treatment.

What causes diarrhea?

Diarrhea can result from various factors, including viral infections like norovirus or rotavirus, bacterial infections such as E. coli or salmonella, and parasitic infections. It may also be triggered by food poisoning, certain medications like antibiotics, and digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Additionally, stress, food intolerances, and consuming contaminated food or water are common causes. If you're uncertain about the cause of your symptoms, HLTHi providers can evaluate your condition and suggest suitable treatments.

What is the treatment for diarrhea?

Treatment for diarrhea varies based on the underlying cause and the severity of symptoms. Common approaches include using anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide (Imodium) to reduce bowel movements, rehydration solutions to replenish lost fluids, and probiotics to help restore gut flora balance. If a bacterial infection is the cause, antibiotics such as azithromycin or ciprofloxacin may be necessary. Dietary modifications, such as adopting the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast), can also aid in symptom management. HLTHi providers can evaluate your condition and suggest the most suitable treatment plan.