How to Stop Loose Motion Quickly
Suffering from loose motion? Learn how to stop diarrhea quickly with effective home remedies, diet tips, and when to see a doctor. Regain comfort and hydration fast.
Written by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai
Reviewed by Dr. Mohammed Kamran MBBS, FIDM
Last updated on 8th Aug, 2025
Introduction
Loose motion, also known as diarrhea, is a common digestive issue that can disrupt your daily routine. It is characterized by frequent, watery bowel movements and can be accompanied by stomach cramps, bloating, and dehydration. While it usually resolves on its own within a few days, knowing how to manage it quickly can help you feel better sooner.
Understanding Loose Motion
Loose motion occurs when your digestive system doesn’t absorb enough water from the food you eat, leading to watery stools. It can be caused by:
Infections – Bacterial (E. coli, Salmonella), viral (rotavirus, norovirus), or parasitic infections.
Food intolerances – Lactose or gluten intolerance.
Medications – Antibiotics or certain antacids.
Digestive disorders – Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease.
Contaminated food or water – Consuming spoiled or improperly cooked food.
Symptoms of Loose Motion
Common symptoms include:
Frequent, watery stools
Abdominal cramps
Bloating and gas
Nausea or vomiting
Fever (in case of infections)
Weakness or dizziness due to dehydration
How to Stop Loose Motion Quickly
1. Stay Hydrated
Diarrhea causes fluid loss, leading to dehydration. Drink plenty of:
Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) – Helps restore lost electrolytes.
Coconut water – Natural source of electrolytes.
Clear broths or herbal teas – Soothes the stomach.
Plain water – Sip small amounts frequently.
Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sugary drinks, as they can worsen dehydration.
2. Follow the BRAT Diet
The BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) is gentle on the stomach and helps firm up stools.
Bananas – Rich in potassium, which helps replace lost nutrients.
Rice – Easy to digest and helps absorb excess water in stools.
Applesauce – Contains pectin, which firms up loose stools.
Toast – Plain white toast is bland and easy to digest.
You can also include boiled potatoes, yogurt (with probiotics), and steamed carrots.
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
3. Avoid Certain Foods
Some foods can aggravate diarrhea. Avoid:
Spicy, oily, or fried foods
Dairy (if lactose intolerant)
High-fiber foods (raw vegetables, whole grains)
Artificial sweeteners (sorbitol, xylitol)
4. Try Natural Remedies
Ginger tea – Helps reduce stomach irritation.
Peppermint tea – Eases cramps and bloating.
Cumin water – Boil cumin seeds in water and drink to soothe digestion.
Probiotics – Yogurt or probiotic supplements restore gut bacteria.
5. Over-the-Counter Medications
If needed, you can take:
Loperamide (Imodium) – Slows bowel movements.
Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) – Reduces inflammation.
Note: Avoid these if you have a fever or bloody stools, as they may indicate an infection requiring medical attention.
6. Rest and Avoid Stress
Your digestive system needs time to recover. Get enough rest and avoid strenuous activities. Stress can worsen diarrhea, so practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing.
When to See a Doctor
Most cases of loose motion resolve in 1-2 days. However, seek medical help if you experience:
Diarrhea lasting more than 2 days (or 24 hours in children)
High fever (above 102°F)
Blood or mucus in stools
Severe dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, dark urine)
Persistent vomiting
Preventing Loose Motion in the Future
To reduce the risk of diarrhea:
Wash hands frequently – Especially before eating and after using the restroom.
Drink clean water – Avoid tap water in areas with poor sanitation.
Eat well-cooked food – Avoid raw or undercooked meat and seafood.
Store food properly – Refrigerate perishable items promptly.
Manage food intolerances – Avoid trigger foods if you have lactose or gluten sensitivity.
Need Expert Advice?
If your symptoms persist or worsen, consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. You can book a consultation with a gastroenterologist on Apollo 24|7 for expert guidance.
Final Thoughts
Loose motion can be uncomfortable, but with the right care, you can recover quickly. Focus on hydration, a gentle diet, and rest. If symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to seek medical help. Stay healthy and take care of your digestive system!
Consult Top Specialists
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Dr Syed Mateen Pasha
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Syed Ismail Ali
General Practitioner
7 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Bhukya Pavan Kalyan
General Physician
5 Years • MBBS DNB Paediatrics
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Karanam Kondalamma
General Practitioner
4 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
KK Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Madhuri Sai Sreepada
General Practitioner
9 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
BRIGHT SMILES MEDICARE & DENTAL CARE, Hyderabad
Consult Top Specialists
Dr Syed Mateen Pasha
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Syed Ismail Ali
General Practitioner
7 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Bhukya Pavan Kalyan
General Physician
5 Years • MBBS DNB Paediatrics
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Karanam Kondalamma
General Practitioner
4 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
KK Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Madhuri Sai Sreepada
General Practitioner
9 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
BRIGHT SMILES MEDICARE & DENTAL CARE, Hyderabad
