Fast, Effective Online Treatment for Diarrhea

Yes, anxiety can cause diarrhea. When you’re feeling anxious or stressed, your body’s fight-or-flight response can affect your digestive system, leading to 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 frequently experience anxiety-related digestive issues, a HLTHi provider can help you manage both your mental health and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Diarrhea typically lasts 1 to 3 days in most cases and may resolve on its own with rest and hydration. However, some causes — such as viral infections, food poisoning, or certain medications — may result in symptoms lasting up to a week. If diarrhea persists for more than 3 days, is severe, or is accompanied by symptoms like fever, dehydration, or bloody stools, it’s important to seek medical care. HLTHi's providers are available 24/7 to assess your symptoms and recommend the best treatment.

To help stop diarrhea, consider taking anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide (Imodium) to slow bowel movements. Staying hydrated with water, electrolyte drinks, or oral rehydration solutions is essential to replace lost fluids. Eating bland foods such as bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (BRAT diet) can help soothe your stomach. Probiotics may also support gut health and restore balance. If your symptoms persist, worsen, or are accompanied by fever or dehydration, connect with a HLTHi provider for personalized care and treatment.

Diarrhea can be caused by a variety of factors, including viral infections (such as norovirus or rotavirus), bacterial infections (like E. coli or salmonella), and parasitic infections. Food poisoning, certain medications (such as antibiotics), and digestive conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can also trigger diarrhea. Additionally, stress, food intolerances, and consuming contaminated food or water are common causes. If you’re unsure what’s causing your symptoms, HLTHi providers can help assess your condition and recommend appropriate treatment.

Treatment for diarrhea depends on the cause and severity of your symptoms. Common treatments include anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide (Imodium) to slow bowel movements, rehydration solutions to replace lost fluids, and probiotics to restore gut balance. In cases caused by bacterial infections, antibiotics such as azithromycin or ciprofloxacin may be prescribed. Dietary changes, like following the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast), can also help manage symptoms. HLTHi providers can assess your condition and recommend the best treatment plan for you.