In the case of simple short-term episodes of diarrhoea, which usually clear up by themselves in healthy people, you will probably be able to manage your symptoms through home care. You should try to do the following: rest at home stay off work or school until you have not had a loose bowel motion for 24 hours drink clear fluids or oral rehydration solution to replace lost fluids — take small sips if you feel sick avoid fruit juice, cordials and sugary drinks — they will prolong the diarrhoea avoid alcohol and caffeine manage your diet until you get back to normal — eat bland foods, such as rice, pasta and crackers, and avoid fatty foods or those high in insoluble fibre Oral rehydration solutions These are available over the counter from your pharmacist. For older people and children, oral rehydration solutions are a better choice than plain water. They are made specifically to replace both fluids and electrolytes (important minerals that your body needs to function) in the right concentrations. Sports rehydration drinks are not recommended. Anti-diarrhoeal medicines Anti-diarrhoeal medicines should not be used to treat a diarrhoea attack in babies or children. Your pharmacist or doctor will be able to advise you if you are thinking of taking over-the-counter anti-diarrhoeal medicines. They are not suitable for use in the case of diarrhoea caused by certain specific infections. Do not take them if you have a fever or have blood in your stool. Remember that diarrhoea is your body’s way of getting rid of a gastrointestinal infection, so these medicines should not be taken long term because they slow your gut and may prolong your illness. Anti-vomiting drugs Anti-emetics may be prescribed by your doctor if you have gastroenteritis and are having problems due to vomiting. Intravenous fluids People who are not able to adequately rehydrate — for example, because they are vomiting — may need to be given intravenous fluids via a drip. Antibiotics Most sudden attacks of diarrhoea are caused by viruses and so antibiotics, which are only used to treat bacterial infections, are of no use. If your doctor determines — usually through testing a stool sample — that your diarrhoea is due to a bacterial or parasitic infection, then they may prescribe antibiotics. Dietary changes If you are experiencing diarrhoea for dietary reasons or due to irritable bowel syndrome, an accredited practising dietitian (APD) should be able to suggest some dietary changes.