Definitions

Diarrhea

When to make a doctor’s appointment

Make an appointment to see a doctor if:

• Adult's diarrhea doesn't improve within two days
• Stool is bloody or black
• Little to no urination, very dry mouth and skin, or other signs of dehydration
• Fever over 102 F (38.9 C)
• Abdominal or rectal pain

Self-care

Replacing fluids with an oral rehydrating solution such as Pedialyte will help prevent dehydration. Over-the-counter anti-diarrheal drugs include Pepto-Bismol and Kaopectate.

When to seek immediate medical care

See a doctor immediately if:

• No wet diaper in three hours or more
• Fever of 102 F (38.9 C) or higher, in infant or child
• Bloody or black stools, in infant or child
• Diarrhea doesn't improve after 24 hours, in infant or child
• Listless or unresponsive
• Dry mouth, cries without tears, or sunken look to eyes, cheeks, or abdomen, in infant or child

When to make a doctor's appointment

Make an appointment to see a doctor if:

• Adult's diarrhea doesn't improve within two days
• Stool is bloody or black
• Little to no urination, very dry mouth and skin, or other signs of dehydration
• Fever over 102 F (38.9 C)
• Abdominal or rectal pain