Antibiotics
Antibiotics may help treat diarrhea caused by bacteria or parasites. If a virus is causing your diarrhea, antibiotics won't help.Treatment to replace fluids
Your doctor likely will advise you to take steps to replace the
fluids and salts lost during diarrhea. For most people, replacing fluids
means drinking water, juice or broth. If drinking liquids upsets your
stomach or causes diarrhea, your doctor may recommend getting fluids
through a vein in your arm (intravenously).
Water is a good way to replace fluids, but it doesn't contain the
salts and electrolytes — minerals such as sodium and potassium — you
need in order to maintain the electric currents that keep your heart
beating. Disruption of your body's fluid and mineral levels creates an
electrolyte imbalance that can be serious. You can help maintain your
electrolyte levels by drinking fruit juices for potassium or eating
soups for sodium. Adjusting medications you're taking
If your doctor determines that an antibiotic medication caused your diarrhea, your doctor may modify your treatment plan by lowering your dose or switching to another medication.Treating underlying conditions
If your diarrhea is caused by a more serious disease or condition, such as inflammatory bowel disease, your doctor will work to control that condition. You may be referred to a specialist, such as a gastroenterologist, who can help devise a treatment plan for you.
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