Diarrhoea treatment in Huntingdon.
Diarrhoea usually clears by itself within a few days, but it can leave you drained and worried. Under the NHS Minor Ailments Scheme our pharmacist can check for dehydration, give advice on rehydration and, where suitable, supply NHS treatment — no GP referral required.
What is diarrhoea?
Diarrhoea is when a person passes loose or watery poo more often than is normal for them.
It may come on suddenly and can last a few days. It is often accompanied by stomach cramps, bloating or an urgent need to go to the toilet.
The biggest risk is dehydration, which happens when the body loses more water and salts than it takes in.
No appointment needed — come in during opening hours and ask for the pharmacist.
Prefer a set time? Call and we'll book you in with the pharmacist.
Open Mon–Fri 08:45–18:00 (closed 13:00–14:00).
Common signs and symptoms
- Loose or watery poo, often three or more times in 24 hours
- Needing to go to the toilet more frequently
- Stomach cramps or discomfort
- Bloating and wind
- Feeling sick or vomiting
- Sometimes a fever
What causes diarrhoea?
Diarrhoea can have several different causes, and knowing which one is behind yours guides the right treatment.
Viruses such as norovirus, or bacteria from contaminated food or water, can cause diarrhoea. This is sometimes called gastroenteritis or food poisoning.
Undercooked food, poor food hygiene or unsafe drinking water can introduce germs into the digestive system.
Lactose intolerance, certain foods, excess alcohol or large amounts of caffeine can cause loose stools in some people.
Antibiotics, some laxatives and other medicines can cause diarrhoea as a side effect.
Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease and coeliac disease can cause recurring diarrhoea.
How can it be prevented?
Diarrhoea often spreads through poor hygiene, so these everyday habits make a real difference.
Use soap and water after using the toilet, changing nappies and before preparing or eating food. Hand sanitiser alone may not be effective against some stomach viruses.
Cook food thoroughly, store it at safe temperatures, wash fruit and vegetables, and avoid cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods.
Regularly clean toilet seats, flush handles, taps and door handles, particularly when someone at home has diarrhoea or vomiting.
Do not share towels or utensils with someone who is unwell. Stay away from work or school until at least 48 hours after the last episode of diarrhoea or vomiting.
These measures help reduce the spread of infectious diarrhoea.
When should someone seek medical help?
Most cases settle within a few days, but diarrhoea can sometimes need more than self-care.
Contact NHS 111 urgently
Seek advice if there is:
- Blood in the poo
- Persistent vomiting with an inability to keep fluids down
- Signs of dehydration that do not improve with oral rehydration
- Diarrhoea lasting more than 7 days
- Seek help sooner for babies, young children, older adults or people with weakened immune systems
Seek emergency help
Call 999 or go to A&E for:
- Severe or sudden abdominal pain
- Confusion or difficulty waking
- Severe breathing difficulties
- Other signs of a life-threatening emergency
Arrange medical assessment
Contact a GP if diarrhoea:
- Keeps returning or lasts longer than expected
- Is accompanied by unexplained weight loss or other persistent symptoms
- Starts during or after a course of antibiotics — seek medical advice
Common questions
Can a pharmacist help with diarrhoea?
Yes. Under the NHS Minor Ailments Scheme our pharmacist can ask about your symptoms, check for dehydration and advise on rehydration — including NHS treatment where suitable.
Should I take anti-diarrhoea medicine?
Not always. If an infection is causing your diarrhoea, stopping it with medicine isn't always best. Our pharmacist can advise whether treatment will help in your case and supply it on the NHS where suitable.
What should I drink while I have diarrhoea?
Keep taking small, frequent sips of fluid — water is fine, and oral rehydration solutions replace lost salts as well. Ask our pharmacist if you're unsure which one to use, especially for young children.
How long does diarrhoea last?
Most cases improve within a few days. If it lasts more than 7 days, keeps returning, or you're getting worse, you should be assessed again.
How much does it cost?
The consultation is free. If the pharmacist can treat you under the scheme, any NHS prescription charge that applies is the same as it would be at your GP — and free if you don't normally pay for prescriptions.
Do I need an appointment?
No — walk-ins are welcome during opening hours. If you'd rather have a set time, call us on 01480 425412 and we'll schedule one for you.
Other minor ailments we can help with
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Walk in and ask for the pharmacist, or call us to arrange a time — free NHS advice and treatment under the Minor Ailments Scheme.