What to do if you get diarrhea at school? 3 quick ways to treat diarrhea

Diarrhea at school can cause abdominal pain and anxiety about finding a restroom, fear of frequent bowel movements, or embarrassing situations with friends. Diarrhea is often associated with intestinal infections, unsuitable food, or digestive disorders. In many cases, rest and adequate hydration are better options, but if you must go to school, you can still proactively reduce discomfort and prevent incidents.

In this article, Tiptory provides guidance on how to manage diarrhea at school, from finding a restroom and replenishing fluids and electrolytes to things to avoid. More importantly, our experts help you distinguish when you can self-care, when to seek ways to stop diarrhea quickly, and when to see a doctor instead of trying to treat diarrhea at home.

Managing Diarrhea at School

Inform your teacher or supervisor

• Speak privately with your teacher and tell them you have diarrhea at school and may need to use the restroom urgently. This allows you to leave class proactively when needed, rather than trying to hold it, as diarrhea can be frequent and difficult to control.

• If there's a school nurse or health office, inform them of your condition to receive appropriate support, especially if you have abdominal pain, vomiting, or signs of dehydration.

Proactively use the restroom during breaks

• Make sure to use the restroom during every break if your stomach feels upset, even if you don't feel an urgent need. This can help reduce anxiety about leaving class in the middle of a lesson.

• Identify the closest restroom to your classroom or the health office in advance so you can get there quickly when needed. This is a simple but helpful step if you're looking for the fastest way to stop diarrhea in an inconvenient school situation.

• Do not try to hold in bowel movements for a long time. The immediate goal is to stay safe, reduce the risk of accidents, and monitor accompanying symptoms.

Prepare a change of clothes

• If possible, bring a clean change of clothes and underwear in a sealed bag. This is a contingency plan if diarrhea occurs suddenly and causes leakage or soils your clothes.

• You might also prepare some tissue paper, wet wipes, and a sealed bag to dispose of used items. Hand hygiene after using the restroom is also crucial to limit the spread of diarrhea-causing agents. The NIDDK recommends washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after using the toilet.

Replenish fluids and electrolytes

• Diarrhea causes the body to lose fluids and electrolytes, so the top priority is not to quickly treat diarrhea but to prevent dehydration.

• Drink small sips of water frequently. If diarrhea is severe, oral rehydration solutions can help replenish both lost fluids and electrolytes.

• If you're nauseous, drink small amounts rather than too much at once. When your appetite returns, most people can resume a normal diet; prolonged fasting is unnecessary.

Use medication only when appropriate

• If you are a student or a child, do not self-medicate with anti-diarrhea drugs. The NIDDK advises against children using over-the-counter medications for diarrhea without a doctor's guidance.

• If medication is needed, consult with the school nurse or your parents to determine the appropriate type and dosage. Specifically, do not self-medicate for diarrhea if you have bloody stools or fever.

Prioritize going home if possible

• If diarrhea persists, you feel weak, or you need to use the restroom constantly, you should inform your parents and ask to go home to rest. The CDC also recommends that children with diarrhea stay home from school to prevent spreading the infection to others.

• Don't force yourself to stay through the whole day of school just because you're afraid of missing class. Rest, rehydration, and symptom monitoring are often more important than trying to endure it.

Know when to seek medical attention

• Seek medical care if diarrhea is accompanied by severe abdominal pain, high fever, frequent vomiting, bloody or black stools, signs of dehydration, or inability to drink enough fluids.

• For children, diarrhea lasting more than one day, frequent bowel movements, recurrent vomiting, or signs of dehydration also require prompt medical evaluation.

• In these cases, the goal is no longer to find the fastest way to stop diarrhea at school but to identify the cause and prevent complications, especially dehydration.

Method 1: Survival Tips for School When You Have Diarrhea

Tip 1: Ask an adult for help with diarrhea

Inform your parents as soon as possible

• If you have diarrhea at school and feel unable to continue studying, call or text your parents/caregivers to inform them of your condition.

• Diarrhea can cause dehydration and fatigue, so going home to rest is a reasonable option if symptoms persist or you have frequent bowel movements.

• When talking to your parents, clearly state the number of bowel movements, abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, or any other unusual symptoms so they can easily decide how to help.

Talk privately with your teacher

• If you cannot go home yet, proactively ask your teacher to speak privately rather than trying to endure it in class. You can simply say that you are experiencing digestive issues and need to use the restroom frequently.

• You can ask to step out of class to talk if you feel shy speaking in front of your classmates. You don't need to go into excessive detail; just provide enough information for the teacher to understand you need support.

• The teacher may guide you to the school nurse's office, allow you to use the restroom when needed, or contact your parents.

Do not try to hold in bowel movements

• When you have diarrhea, the urge to have a bowel movement can appear suddenly. Therefore, ask permission to use the restroom as soon as you need to, rather than trying to hold it, to avoid accidents.

• If you have to leave class multiple times, explain briefly to your teacher. This is a health condition that requires understanding, not something to be ashamed of.

Prioritize rehydration and symptom monitoring

• Diarrhea causes the body to lose fluids and electrolytes. While waiting for parents or medical staff to assist, drink water in small, regular sips.

• If you have frequent bowel movements, an oral rehydration solution can be more helpful than just water, as it replenishes both lost fluids and electrolytes.

• Do not self-medicate with anti-diarrhea drugs, especially in children, without guidance from parents or medical staff.

Know when to seek medical attention

• You need to immediately inform an adult if diarrhea is accompanied by bloody stools, high fever, severe abdominal pain, frequent vomiting, dizziness, dry mouth, reduced urination, or inability to drink enough fluids.

• If symptoms are severe or prolonged, the goal should not just be to find the fastest way to stop diarrhea but to identify the cause and prevent dehydration.

• In such cases, proper diarrhea treatment should be based on the cause, age, and degree of dehydration, rather than buying medicine to try and stop bowel movements yourself.

The most important thing

• If you have diarrhea at school, don't suffer in silence out of embarrassment. Informing your teacher and parents is the simplest step to getting to the restroom, rehydrating, and going home when needed.

• Your health is more important than forcing yourself to sit through a class. Speaking up proactively also helps you handle the situation discreetly, safely, and with less stress.

Tip 2: Proactively use the restroom when you have diarrhea

Make sure to use the restroom during every break

• When you have diarrhea at school, proactively use the restroom during breaks or between classes, even if you don't feel an urgent need at that moment.

• This method cannot stop diarrhea fastest, but it helps you be more proactive and reduces the risk of having to rush out of class when the urge suddenly appears.

• Diarrhea often causes frequent loose bowel movements throughout the day and can be accompanied by abdominal cramping or the urgent need to defecate. Therefore, it's wise to identify the closest restroom to your classroom for easy access when needed.

If you are late to class, explain briefly

• If you stay in the restroom longer than expected and are late for class, tell your teacher that you are not feeling well and apologize for being late.

• There's no need to go into embarrassing detail. Just let your teacher know you're having digestive issues so they understand the reason and can provide appropriate support.

Prioritize your health when symptoms become difficult to control

• If diarrhea causes you to use the restroom constantly, feel dizzy, very thirsty, have a dry mouth, or urinate little, immediately inform your teacher, parents, or the school nurse. These could be signs of dehydration that need attention.

• Do not try to endure it just because you're afraid of being judged. If your condition doesn't allow you to continue studying, asking to go home to rest and rehydrate might be more appropriate.

• When you have diarrhea, replenishing fluids and electrolytes is a crucial priority to prevent dehydration. Oral rehydration solutions can be used when necessary, especially with frequent bowel movements.

Proactively seek help if the teacher is not aware of the situation

• If you've already informed someone but still have difficulty getting to the restroom or feel your condition worsening, find the school nurse or contact your parents.

• Your health should be prioritized over trying to sit through class. The goal at this point is not just to find the fastest way to treat diarrhea but to control symptoms, rehydrate sufficiently, and avoid complications.

• If diarrhea is accompanied by bloody or black stools, severe abdominal pain, high fever, frequent vomiting, or signs of dehydration, medical evaluation is needed instead of trying to stay at school.

Note: It might be best to stay home from school if you have diarrhea

• If diarrhea is ongoing, especially if a bacterial infection is suspected, staying home to rest not only helps you care for yourself conveniently but also reduces the risk of spreading the illness to others.

• The CDC recommends considering keeping children home when they have diarrhea and checking the school's specific policies on when they can return.

Tip 3: Sit near the door for easy restroom access

Choose a seat near the classroom door

• If you have diarrhea at school and frequently feel the urge to defecate, speak privately with your teacher and ask to sit near the door.

• This position allows you to easily leave when you need to use the restroom, avoiding having to push past many classmates or disrupt the lesson.

• If the class allows self-selection of seats, prioritize a spot near the door that is convenient for reaching the restroom.

Speak privately with your teacher if you're shy

• You don't need to discuss your diarrhea in front of the whole class. You can ask the teacher to speak privately and briefly explain that you're having digestive issues and need to use the restroom frequently.

• If needed, ask to sit in a position that makes it easier to leave class while symptoms persist.

• This is a practical way to reduce stress when you have diarrhea at school, instead of trying to hold it in or waiting until the urge becomes uncontrollable.

Leave class quietly when necessary

• When you need to use the restroom, stand up and leave calmly, avoiding making noise or attracting unnecessary attention.

• If your teacher has been informed of your health condition beforehand, you will find it easier to handle the situation without having to re-explain every time you need to use the restroom.

• However, you should not leave class without permission if you can inform your teacher or medical staff. If it's an emergency and you don't receive timely support, prioritize your health and quickly seek help from an adult.

Do not try to hold it in to avoid leaving class

• Diarrhea often causes a sudden urge to defecate, pain or cramping, and sometimes difficulty controlling bowel movements.

• Therefore, arranging your seat near the door is not the fastest way to stop diarrhea, but a measure to help you cope more safely while your body recovers.

• To treat diarrhea correctly, the important priority remains adequate rehydration and electrolyte replenishment, especially with frequent bowel movements.

Pay attention to signs needing medical support

• If diarrhea is accompanied by extreme thirst, dry mouth, reduced urination, dark urine, fatigue, dizziness, or lightheadedness, immediately inform your parents, teacher, or medical staff as these could be signs of dehydration.

• Seek prompt medical evaluation if there is bloody or black stool, severe abdominal pain, frequent vomiting, fever, or inability to drink enough fluids.

• For children or younger students, it is advisable to inform parents early rather than attempting self-treatment. The NIDDK notes that children should not use over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medications without appropriate guidance.

Tip 4: Prepare a change of clothes if you have diarrhea

Bring a clean change of clothes as a backup

• If you have diarrhea at school, prepare a clean set of underwear and long pants before coming to class. This is a backup plan in case diarrhea occurs suddenly and you don't have time to reach the restroom.

• You can put the clothes in a sealed, compact bag that is easy to carry without drawing attention.

• Preparing in advance doesn't mean you're sure to have an accident. On the contrary, it helps reduce anxiety and makes you more proactive in case you need to change clothes.

Ask the school nurse's office or parents for help if you're already at school

• If you are at school and don't have a change of clothes, ask the school nurse if they have clean clothes for you to change into.

• You can also contact your parents or caregivers to ask them to bring new clothes to school.

• If clothes are soiled with feces or vomit, change them as soon as possible and keep the dirty clothes in a sealed bag until they can be washed. The NIDDK recommends that clothes that may have come into contact with the feces or vomit of someone with viral gastroenteritis should be washed with detergent and machine-dried; the person handling the soiled items should wash their hands thoroughly afterwards.

Handle incidents discreetly if they occur

• If you accidentally leak stool, calmly go to the restroom or the nurse's office to change your clothes. There's no need to try to hide it by continuing to sit in class with soiled clothes.

• You can use a jacket or bag to temporarily cover soiled clothing on the way to the restroom, but this is only a temporary solution.

• After changing, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Washing hands for at least 20 seconds after using the restroom helps reduce the risk of spreading diarrhea-causing agents.

Don't let preparing a change of clothes make you complacent

• Backup clothes only help handle an unexpected situation; they are not the fastest way to stop diarrhea and do not replace addressing the underlying cause of the illness.

• When you have diarrhea, the important priority is still to drink enough fluids and replenish electrolytes to prevent dehydration. Oral rehydration solutions can be used when necessary.

• If diarrhea causes you to have frequent bowel movements, feel weak, or cannot continue studying, inform your teacher, parents, or school nurse to get support and consider going home to rest.

You should stay home from school if you have diarrhea

• If diarrhea is likely due to an infection, trying to continue attending school can increase the risk of spreading the illness to friends and school staff.

• The CDC recommends that children with diarrhea stay home and that families check the school's specific policies on when they can return to school.

Recognize signs requiring medical attention

• Immediately inform a parent or healthcare provider if diarrhea is accompanied by bloody or black stools, severe abdominal pain, excessive vomiting, high fever, or signs of dehydration.

• In children, diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours, frequent bowel movements, not drinking enough fluids, or signs of dehydration are reasons for a doctor to assess the situation.

Tip 5: Stay calm when experiencing diarrhea

Don't let anxiety worsen the discomfort

• Having diarrhea at school can easily make you feel embarrassed, stressed, or afraid of others finding out. However, this is a fairly common digestive issue and can happen to anyone.

• Instead of constantly thinking about having to rush to the bathroom, focus on things you can control, such as locating the nearest restroom, informing your teacher, and drinking enough fluids.

• Remind yourself that a health incident doesn't define who you are or your worth. Staying calm helps you handle the situation more effectively.

Try to control your breathing when feeling panicked

• If you start to feel anxious, sit in a comfortable place and slowly inhale through your nose, then exhale gradually. Repeat several times until the feeling of tension subsides.

• You can tell yourself: "I'm not feeling well, but I can handle it one step at a time." This mindset helps shift attention from fear to concrete action.

• If you need to use the restroom, go immediately instead of trying to hold it in out of embarrassment. Proactively addressing your body's needs is more important than fearing attention.

If you have irritable bowel syndrome, pay attention to psychological factors

• For people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), stress and anxiety can be linked to more pronounced digestive symptoms. Therefore, stress reduction can be part of a symptom management strategy, but it should not be considered the fastest way to stop diarrhea.

• If you frequently experience recurrent abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation, especially if symptoms affect your studies and daily life, you should consult a doctor for evaluation instead of self-diagnosing IBS.

Focus on self-care

• When you have diarrhea, prioritize rehydration and electrolytes, rest, and monitor accompanying symptoms. This is more fundamentally important than trying to find an immediate diarrhea cure.

• Drink small sips of water frequently. If you have frequent bowel movements, oral rehydration solutions can help replenish lost water and electrolytes.

• If you are at school, inform your teacher, parent, or school nurse if you feel too tired, dizzy, or unable to continue with your studies.

Don't ignore unusual signs

• Anxiety is not the only cause of diarrhea. Intestinal infections, food poisoning, medications, and many other digestive problems can also cause diarrhea.

• Medical attention is needed if there is bloody or black stool, severe abdominal pain, high fever, excessive vomiting, signs of dehydration, or inability to drink enough fluids.

• If diarrhea is recurrent or prolonged, see a doctor to find the cause. The goal of treating diarrhea is to address the cause and prevent complications, not just to stop bowel movements as quickly as possible.

Tip 6: Wash your hands thoroughly after each restroom visit

Wash your hands with soap after each restroom visit

• When experiencing diarrhea at school, wash your hands with soap and water after each restroom visit or after contact with feces. This is one of the important measures to limit the spread of diarrhea-causing agents to friends and family. WHO also emphasizes hand hygiene after using the toilet as an important measure to reduce diarrheal diseases.

• Wet your hands, apply soap, then scrub your entire hands thoroughly, including palms, backs of hands, between fingers, and fingertips for about 20 seconds.

• Rinse thoroughly under running water and dry with a clean towel or appropriate hand-drying method.

Prioritize soap and water when hands are visibly dirty

• If your hands are visibly dirty or may have feces on them, prioritize washing hands with soap and water instead of just using hand sanitizer.

• Soap combined with water helps remove dirt and pathogens from the hands. WHO recommends washing hands with soap and water at critical times, such as after using the toilet or contact with feces.

• Special antibacterial soap is not necessary; regular soap and proper handwashing technique are suitable choices in a school environment.

Use hand sanitizer when water is unavailable

• If soap and water are not available, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol, especially when hands are not visibly dirty. WHO considers hand sanitizers with 60% or more alcohol to be effective alternatives in these situations.

• Apply enough solution to cover both hands, then rub your hands together, cleaning palms, backs of hands, between fingers, and fingertips until dry.

• If your hands have feces or visible dirt, find a place with soap and water to wash your hands as soon as possible.

Don't just focus on stopping diarrhea

• Hand hygiene is not the fastest way to stop diarrhea, but it plays a crucial role in preventing pathogens from spreading to others.

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• Infectious diarrhea can be transmitted via the fecal-oral route, where poor hand hygiene contributes to transmission. WHO notes that handwashing with soap can help reduce the risk of diarrheal diseases.

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• Therefore, diarrhea treatment needs to be accompanied by personal hygiene, rehydration, and infection control measures, rather than just seeking to stop bowel movements.

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Maintain hand hygiene to protect the entire class

• After washing your hands, avoid touching food, water bottles, or shared items with unwashed hands.

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• If diarrhea is due to infection, limit close contact and inform your teacher, parent, or school nurse for guidance.

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• WHO and UNICEF recommend enhancing hand hygiene in homes, schools, and public spaces as a measure to help reduce diarrheal diseases and preventable infections.

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Method 2: Rapidly reduce diarrheal abdominal pain symptoms

Tip 1: Stay calm to reduce discomfort

Stay calm when diarrhea occurs

• Having diarrhea at school can easily make you panic, especially when you worry about not making it to the bathroom in time. However, stress can make digestive symptoms more uncomfortable for some people, especially those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

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• Instead of constantly thinking, "What if I don't make it to the bathroom?", shift to a more realistic thought: "I know where the bathroom is and can tell the teacher if I need to."

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• Remind yourself that digestive issues are quite common and a sudden incident is nothing to be ashamed of. Focusing on each step of the process will help you feel less stressed.

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Try slow breathing to reduce stress

• When you feel your heart racing or panicking, stop and take a few slow, deep breaths. Inhale gently through your nose and then exhale slowly through your mouth.

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• Repeat for a few minutes, while relaxing your shoulders and abdominal muscles. The goal is not to "force" your intestines to stop working but to help your body move out of a state of tension.

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• Relaxation techniques can help manage symptoms in some people with IBS, but they are not the fastest way to stop diarrhea and do not replace treating the underlying cause.

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Don't blame yourself if diarrhea is anxiety-related

• Some people notice abdominal pain, an urge to have a bowel movement, or diarrhea when anxious or nervous before a test, presentation, or stressful situations.

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• If you notice symptoms frequently appearing with stress and subsiding when you are calm, record the time, food, and stressful situations to discuss with a doctor if needed.

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• Do not assume that all cases of diarrhea are psychological. Infections, inappropriate food, medications, and many other causes can also lead to diarrhea.

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Combine relaxation with proper diarrhea care

• When treating diarrhea, the priority is still rehydration and electrolytes, rest, and monitoring for unusual signs.

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• If you are at school, proactively inform your teacher or school nurse, locate the nearest restroom, and carry appropriate drinking water.

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• If diarrhea is severe, oral rehydration solutions can help replenish lost water and electrolytes. Do not try to fast or self-medicate just to find a quick way to stop diarrhea.

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Know when not to just self-reassure

• If diarrhea is accompanied by bloody or black stools, severe abdominal pain, high fever, excessive vomiting, dizziness, reduced urination, or increased thirst, immediately inform a parent, teacher, or school nurse.

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• These signs may indicate a condition requiring medical evaluation, especially when there is a risk of dehydration.

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• If diarrhea is recurrent, prolonged, or affects studies and daily life, see a doctor to find the cause instead of relying solely on relaxation exercises to treat diarrhea.

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Tip 2: Avoid straining or pushing when having diarrhea

Avoid excessive clenching of the anal muscles

• When experiencing diarrhea at school, the sudden urge to have a bowel movement can instinctively make you clench the muscles around your anus to try to hold it in. However, you should not maintain this clenching for longer than necessary.

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• Loose stool moves quickly through the rectum and is harder to control than solid stool, so if you feel the urge to go, prioritize finding a restroom instead of constantly clenching your muscles to hold it in.

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• The goal is not to retain stool at all costs, but to address the need to defecate safely, discreetly, and calmly.

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Do not strain when defecating

• Once in the restroom, sit comfortably and allow your body to defecate naturally. There's no need to strain hard to "push out" all the stool.

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• Prolonged straining can increase pressure on the anal and rectal area. Avoiding straining is also a principle recommended in the care of anal conditions like hemorrhoids.

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• If you cannot go immediately, relax instead of continuing to strain or sit on the toilet for a long time.

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If you have to temporarily hold it in class

• If you cannot leave class immediately, you can lightly clench your anal muscles for a short period to manage the situation, but avoid constant straining.

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• Inform your teacher and ask to use the restroom as soon as possible if the urge increases.

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• Proactively sitting near the classroom door or in a position that allows easy movement can also help reduce psychological pressure when experiencing diarrhea at school.

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Do not consider clenching as a way to stop diarrhea

• Clenching the anal muscles does not reduce the water content in stool and is not the fastest way to stop diarrhea. Diarrhea has many causes, including infection, inappropriate food, digestive diseases, or medication side effects.

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• For acute diarrhea, it is important to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes to prevent dehydration. Oral rehydration solutions can be used when appropriate.

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• Therefore, treating diarrhea should not focus solely on trying to hold in stool but should emphasize rehydration, rest, and addressing the cause when necessary.

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Pay attention if diarrhea is prolonged or recurrent

• If you frequently have to clench your muscles to retain stool, experience fecal leakage, anal pain, or difficulty controlling bowel movements, you should talk to a doctor.

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• Diarrhea is a common risk factor for fecal incontinence because loose stool is harder to retain than solid stool.

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• If there is bloody stool, black stool, severe abdominal pain, fever, excessive vomiting, or signs of dehydration, seek medical evaluation instead of continuing to self-manage at school.

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Tip 3: Go to the school nurse's office when experiencing diarrhea

Inform the school nurse

• If you experience diarrhea at school, proactively go to the school nurse's office or inform your teacher for guidance. The nurse can assess your condition, help contact your parents, and assist in deciding whether you should stay at school or go home.

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• Don't hesitate to clearly describe your symptoms, such as the number of bowel movements, abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, or dizziness. This information helps the school nurse determine the level of support needed.

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• If diarrhea causes you to use the restroom frequently or affects your ability to learn, taking time off school may be more appropriate. The CDC recommends students stay home when diarrhea causes fecal leakage, blood in stool, or a significant increase in bowel movements compared to normal.

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Ask about medication instead of self-medicating

• Do not take anti-diarrhea medication yourself or use a friend's medication just to find the fastest way to stop diarrhea.

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• For children, NIDDK recommends against using over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medications without a doctor's guidance. Specifically, anti-diarrhea medications are not appropriate when there is bloody stool or fever.

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• If medication is needed, let the school nurse or parents determine the appropriate type and dosage based on age, symptoms, and health condition.

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Rest and rehydrate at the school nurse's office

• If diarrhea makes you tired, causes abdominal pain, or shows signs of dehydration, the school nurse's office can be a suitable place for you to rest while waiting for your parents to pick you up.

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• Drinking enough water and replenishing electrolytes are important priorities when treating diarrhea, as diarrhea causes the body to lose both water and electrolytes. Oral rehydration solutions can be used to replenish lost amounts.

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• If nauseous, drink small sips instead of a large amount at once. For children, consult a doctor about appropriate rehydration if diarrhea is significant.

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Ask for a note or notification to inform the teacher

• If you need to miss a class, lie down, or go home, you can ask the school nurse if they can provide a note or inform your teacher, depending on school policy.

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• This helps you avoid having to explain your health condition repeatedly and can handle diarrhea at school more discreetly.

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• If you need to go home, ask a parent or caregiver to arrange suitable transportation instead of leaving school without permission.

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Prioritize going home when diarrhea is difficult to control

• If you have continuous bowel movements, fecal leakage, blood in your stool, or a significant increase in diarrhea compared to normal, you should inform your parents and consider staying home from school. The CDC states that these conditions are reasons for students to stay home and only return when their diarrhea has improved.

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• Staying home allows you to rest, rehydrate, and reduce the risk of spreading infection if the cause is a contagious gastrointestinal illness.

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Know when to seek early medical attention

• Immediately inform medical staff and parents if diarrhea is accompanied by bloody stools, severe abdominal pain, fever, frequent vomiting, dizziness, little or no urination, or inability to drink enough fluids.

• These signs need to be evaluated rather than just trying to stop diarrhea as quickly as possible. The goal of treatment is to control the cause, maintain fluid and electrolyte balance, and prevent dehydration complications.

Tip 4: Reduce embarrassment when your stomach rumbles

Don't worry too much if your stomach makes noise

• When you have diarrhea at school, your stomach may make gurgling, rumbling, or sloshing sounds due to digestive activity. This is not a shameful sign, and people around you usually notice it less than you think.

• If someone accidentally hears it, they might simply think you're hungry or have an upset stomach. There's no need to focus too much on this sound, as the more you worry, the more uncomfortable you'll feel.

• Stomach rumbling is not a criterion for evaluating the severity of diarrhea. Diarrhea is primarily defined by loose, watery stools, usually three or more times a day, or more than your normal frequency. 

If necessary, discreetly divert attention

• If your stomach makes noise in class, you can continue with your normal activities instead of trying to hide it with actions that might draw attention.

• If appropriate for the situation, you can cough lightly, adjust your sitting posture, or pick up school supplies to shift attention away from the sound.

• Do not try to make loud noises or unusual actions just to cover up stomach sounds, as this can sometimes make others notice even more.

When going to the restroom, prioritize comfort

• If you have abdominal cramps or feel an urgent need to defecate, take the initiative to ask permission to go to the restroom. There's no need to hold it in just because you're afraid of others hearing sounds.

• Once in the restroom, take the necessary time to have a natural bowel movement, avoiding straining or clenching your anal muscles too much.

• After each bowel movement, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to limit the spread of diarrhea-causing agents.

Don't try to stop diarrhea just because of stomach sounds

• Stomach rumbling doesn't mean you need to find the fastest way to stop diarrhea. If you have diarrhea, the important priority is still to rehydrate and replenish electrolytes to prevent dehydration.

• If you have frequent bowel movements, you can use an appropriate oral rehydration solution. Children should be guided by parents or medical staff when needing to use medication for diarrhea.

• Therefore, treating diarrhea does not mean trying to stop bowel movements immediately. The important thing is to control symptoms, maintain adequate hydration, and identify the cause when necessary.

Don't ignore unusual signs

• If diarrhea is accompanied by bloody or black stools, severe abdominal pain, frequent vomiting, high fever, dizziness, little urination, or extreme thirst, immediately inform parents, teachers, or medical staff.

• For children, diarrhea lasting more than one day, frequent bowel movements, regular vomiting, or signs of dehydration require early consultation with a doctor.

• When these signs appear, don't just try to hide stomach sounds or try to stay in class. Health should be prioritized, and evaluating the cause can be more important than quickly relieving symptoms.

Method 3: Safe and quick diarrhea treatment on the spot

Tip 1: Drink enough water when you have diarrhea

Rehydrate immediately when you have diarrhea

• When you have diarrhea at school, your body loses not only water but also electrolytes. Therefore, drinking enough fluids is one of the most important things to prevent dehydration.

• It is not necessary to try to drink a fixed amount like 8-10 glasses per day. The amount of fluid needed depends on age, severity of diarrhea, health status, and the amount of water lost.

• Drink frequently throughout the day. If you have just had a bowel movement, you should continue to replenish fluids instead of waiting until you are thirsty to drink.

Prioritize electrolyte solutions for frequent bowel movements

• Plain water helps replenish fluids, but with severe diarrhea, oral rehydration solution (ORS) may be more appropriate as it provides water, glucose, and lost electrolytes.

• For children, NIDDK recommends using oral rehydration solution for diarrhea to prevent dehydration; infants should continue breastfeeding or formula feeding as appropriate.

• Plain water should not be considered the fastest way to stop diarrhea. The goal of drinking water is to maintain fluid and electrolyte levels, not to stop diarrhea immediately.

Take small sips if nauseous

• If diarrhea is accompanied by nausea or vomiting, do not try to drink a large amount at once. Take small sips frequently so your body can absorb it more easily.

• If you are at school, you can bring a bottle of water or a pre-prepared oral rehydration solution.

• Inform the teacher or medical staff if you need to bring water with you in class so that drinking water is not interrupted.

Limit certain drinks that can worsen symptoms

• Not all liquids are suitable when you have diarrhea. Some people may find symptoms worsen with caffeinated drinks, high-sugar drinks, or certain fruit juices.

• If you have an upset stomach, prioritize water, oral rehydration solution, or other suitable fluids instead of soda, highly caffeinated drinks, or too much sugar.

• There's no need for prolonged fasting to treat diarrhea. When your appetite returns, most cases can resume normal eating and drinking.

Recognize signs of dehydration

• Immediately inform parents, teachers, or medical staff if you experience extreme thirst, dry mouth, little urination, dark urine, fatigue, dizziness, or lightheadedness. These can be signs of dehydration.

• If you cannot drink enough water or oral rehydration solution, dehydration can become severe and require medical evaluation.

• For children, special attention is needed because dehydration can progress faster, especially in young children.

Don't force yourself to drink water to stay at school at all costs

• If you have frequent diarrhea, feel weak, dizzy, or cannot control your bowel movements, inform an adult and consider going home to rest.

• Rehydration is a crucial foundation when treating diarrhea, but it does not replace seeing a doctor when unusual signs appear.

• Medical attention is required if you have bloody or black stools, severe abdominal pain, high fever, frequent vomiting, signs of dehydration, or prolonged diarrhea.

Tip 2: Eat light, easily digestible food when you have diarrhea

Prioritize soft, easy-to-eat foods when your stomach is upset

• When you have diarrhea at school, you don't necessarily have to fast or only eat a BRAT diet consisting of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. Current research shows that restrictive diets do not help treat diarrhea; when appetite returns, most patients can gradually return to their normal diet.

• If your stomach is still sensitive, start with simple foods like white rice, boiled potatoes, bread, saltine crackers, bananas, or lean meat cooked with little oil. These foods are usually easy to eat and may be more suitable when your digestive system is upset.

• Eat in moderation, slowly, and in smaller, more frequent meals if you feel that a large meal makes your stomach more uncomfortable.

No need to fast to stop diarrhea

• Fasting is not the fastest way to stop diarrhea. When you feel hungry and can eat, continuing to provide nutrition helps your body get energy to recover.

• For children, NIDDK recommends continuing to feed them their normal age-appropriate diet when their appetite returns; infants should continue breastfeeding or formula feeding as usual.

• If you are nauseous or have just vomited, you can temporarily eat less and prioritize small sips of fluid to avoid overloading your stomach.

Choose appropriate food for lunch at school

• If you need to eat at school, you can choose white rice with lean chicken, boiled potatoes, bread, or saltine crackers instead of fried, oily foods.

• Bananas can be a convenient and easy-to-eat option to bring. However, don't force yourself to only eat bananas or foods from the BRAT diet.

• If bringing food from home, store it at the correct temperature, especially perishable foods. You can use an insulated lunch bag or cooler with ice packs and place food in the school refrigerator if the school has appropriate facilities.

Temporarily limit foods that can worsen diarrhea

• Some people may find that diarrhea or discomfort increases after consuming fried, oily foods, caffeinated drinks, or sugary foods or drinks.

• Milk and dairy products can also cause discomfort in some people during recovery, as lactose digestion can sometimes be temporarily reduced after intestinal infections.

• There's no need for excessive dietary restrictions. If a specific food item increases your symptoms, temporarily avoid it and try again when your digestive system is more stable.

Don't forget to rehydrate and replenish electrolytes

• Food is only one part of the diarrhea treatment process. The more important priority is to replenish the water and electrolytes lost through loose stools.

• If you have severe diarrhea, oral rehydration solution (ORS) can help replenish water and electrolytes. If you are nauseous, take small, frequent sips.

• If you are at school, bring a suitable water bottle and inform your teacher or medical staff if you need to drink water frequently.

Know when to stay home from school or see a doctor

• If diarrhea makes you unable to eat or drink, causes frequent vomiting, continuous bowel movements, or signs of dehydration such as little urination, dry mouth, dizziness, or extreme fatigue, immediately inform your parents and medical staff.

• Medical evaluation is needed if you have bloody stools, severe abdominal pain, high fever, frequent vomiting, or if the diarrhea becomes severe. In these cases, you should not just try to find the fastest way to stop diarrhea at school.

• The goal of diarrhea treatment is to maintain adequate hydration and electrolytes, provide appropriate nutrition, and address the cause when necessary, rather than forcing the body to fast to stop bowel movements.

Tip 3: Avoid oily foods when you have diarrhea

Temporarily limit oily foods

• When you have diarrhea at school, if you still feel hungry, prioritize simple and easily digestible foods instead of fried, fast food, or excessively fatty dishes.

• Fatty foods like fried dishes, pizza, and fast food can worsen diarrhea in some people. Therefore, temporarily choosing boiled, steamed, or lightly grilled dishes may be more comfortable for the digestive system.

• However, there's no need to completely avoid fats or fast. When appetite returns, most people with acute diarrhea can gradually return to their normal diet.

Limit spicy foods if they cause stomach discomfort

• If eating spicy food causes you abdominal pain, burning, or more frequent bowel movements, temporarily remove chili, chili sauce, and heavily spiced dishes from your lunch.

• Sensitivity to food varies from person to person. Therefore, it's not necessary to avoid all spicy foods for a long time; rely on your body's actual reaction.

• For people who frequently experience diarrhea or fecal leakage, NIDDK also lists spicy foods as those that can worsen symptoms in some cases.

Consider temporarily reducing milk and dairy products

• If drinking milk or consuming dairy products causes your stomach to gurgle, bloat, or increases diarrhea, temporarily limit them and monitor your body's reaction.

• After some gastrointestinal infections, the ability to digest lactose can be temporarily reduced, making milk and dairy products worsen symptoms.

• Not everyone with diarrhea needs to avoid milk. If you still tolerate it well, there's no need to completely eliminate this food group.

Choose alternative foods for lunch at school

• If the school lunch primarily consists of fried, spicy, or oily dishes, ask your teacher, cafeteria staff, or parents about other options.

• You can prioritize rice, boiled potatoes, bread, saltine crackers, bananas, or simply prepared lean meat, depending on what the school has available and your tolerance.

• Avoid replacing meals with sugary sodas or fruit juices. High-sugar drinks can also worsen diarrhea in some people.

Don't fast to find the fastest way to stop diarrhea

• Fasting or adopting an overly restrictive diet has not been proven to be the fastest way to stop diarrhea. NIDDK states that research does not support fasting or restrictive diets for treating diarrhea.

• When you feel hungry, eat in moderation and continue to replenish water and electrolytes. This is the important foundation for treating acute diarrhea.

• If diarrhea makes you unable to eat or drink, causes continuous bowel movements, or shows signs of dehydration, inform your parents, teacher, or medical staff instead of trying to continue studying.

Track foods that worsen symptoms

• If a specific food item consistently worsens your diarrhea, note down what you ate and the symptoms that followed. This information can be helpful when discussing with a doctor.

• If diarrhea recurs for a long time, a doctor may review your diet, food intolerances, or other digestive conditions to find the cause.

• If you have bloody stools, severe abdominal pain, high fever, frequent vomiting, or signs of dehydration, medical evaluation is needed instead of just adjusting your menu at school.

Tip 4: Use diarrhea medication correctly

Do not self-medicate to stop diarrhea

• When you have diarrhea at school, do not take medication from friends or buy medication yourself with the sole goal of finding the fastest way to stop diarrhea.

• Some over-the-counter medications like loperamide (Imodium) or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) can help reduce diarrhea in some adults, but are not suitable for all cases.

• For children, NIDDK recommends against self-administering over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medications; children with diarrhea should have their parents consult a doctor to choose appropriate treatment.

Ask medical staff or parents before taking medication

• If you need medication while at school, inform the school nurse, parents, or caregiver instead of self-medicating.

• Adults can help check the type of medication, dosage, age allowed to use, and any other medical conditions or medications that may affect safety.

• Anti-diarrhea medication should not be used if you have bloody stools or fever, unless directed by a doctor, as these symptoms may be related to an infection that needs evaluation.

Follow usage instructions correctly

• If a doctor or healthcare provider determines the appropriate medication, take the correct dose and at the intervals instructed on the label or by professional guidance.

• Do not self-medicate with additional doses, thinking that a higher dose will help to cure diarrhea faster. Taking the wrong dose can increase the risk of side effects.

• If diarrhea does not improve, worsens, or lasts longer than 2 days while taking over-the-counter medication, the NIDDK recommends contacting a doctor.

Prioritize rehydration over just seeking medication

• Anti-diarrhea medications only help control symptoms in some cases; they do not address all causes of diarrhea.

• Rehydration and electrolyte replacement remain crucial priorities to prevent dehydration. Oral rehydration solution (ORS) can be used when appropriate.

• If you are nauseous, take small, frequent sips instead of drinking a large amount at once.

Do not take medication if there are warning signs

• Immediately inform a parent or healthcare provider if diarrhea is accompanied by bloody stools, black stools, fever, severe abdominal pain, excessive vomiting, or signs of dehydration.

• For children, diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours, high fever, severe pain, bloody stools, or signs of dehydration are reasons for early medical evaluation.

• In these cases, do not attempt to stop the diarrhea with medication. It is important to find the cause and treat it properly.

Remember that medication is not always necessary

• Most cases of acute diarrhea can resolve on their own without specific treatment. Care primarily focuses on rehydration, electrolyte replacement, and maintaining appropriate nutrition.

• Therefore, if you have diarrhea at school, the safest option is usually to inform an adult, go to the nurse's office, drink plenty of fluids, and consider going home to rest instead of trying to find medication to quickly stop the diarrhea.

Tip 5: Rest and limit physical activity

Reduce activity when having diarrhea

• When you have diarrhea at school, prioritize rest and avoid unnecessary physical activities. Diarrhea can cause dehydration, leaving you feeling tired and weak.

• During class, you should sit and rest, and limit running, strenuous exercise, or excessive movement if these activities cause you abdominal pain or the urge to defecate.

• There's no need to try to participate in every activity just because you're afraid of being judged. Giving your body time to recover is often more practical.

Temporarily skip physical education and sports

• If you have diarrhea, inform your physical education teacher that you are not feeling well and ask to be excused or participate at a minimal level.

• You can ask a parent to write a note if the school requires it. When necessary, the teacher can coordinate with the nurse's office to decide whether you should continue activities for the day.

• Especially if you are very thirsty, dizzy, fatigued, or urinating infrequently, you should not engage in strenuous activity, as these could be signs of dehydration.

Choose activity level based on your physical condition

• Not everyone with diarrhea needs to lie still all day. If symptoms are mild and you still feel well, you can perform normal daily activities at a moderate level.

• However, if you are having frequent bowel movements or feel weak, reduce activity and focus on rehydration and electrolytes.

• Rehydration is not the fastest way to stop diarrhea, but it is one of the most important steps to prevent dehydration complications when treating diarrhea.

Inform your teacher when you need support

• If you need to use the restroom frequently, inform your teacher privately so you can sit near the door or easily leave the classroom when needed.

• If you feel unable to continue studying, contact a parent or go to the nurse's office instead of trying to endure it.

• The goal is to help you get through your time at school safely and discreetly, not to try to complete every activity at all costs.

Know when to go home

• If diarrhea is continuous, causes fecal incontinence, has blood in the stool, or you cannot drink enough fluids, you should inform a parent and consider going home to rest.

• The CDC recommends that students stay home when diarrhea causes fecal incontinence or has blood, and to comply with school policies regarding when to return to school.

• If you have severe abdominal pain, high fever, excessive vomiting, bloody or black stools, dizziness, or infrequent urination, you should be evaluated by a healthcare professional or doctor instead of continuing activities at school.

Tip 6: Carry wet wipes when you have diarrhea

Prepare soft tissues or gentle wet wipes

• When you have diarrhea at school, you may need to use the restroom multiple times, which can irritate, pain, or sting the skin around the anus. Diarrhea also causes loose stool to come into contact with the skin more frequently, increasing discomfort.

• You can carry soft tissues or unscented wet wipes for cleaning after bowel movements. Wet wipes can be useful when school toilet paper is rough or not soft enough.

• However, avoid rubbing vigorously or wiping excessively. The NIDDK notes that rubbing or over-cleaning the anal area can cause irritation and worsen discomfort.

Prioritize gentle cleaning

• After a bowel movement, wipe gently instead of scrubbing hard. If possible, you can wash the anal area with water and then pat dry gently.

• The goal is to clean the stool while protecting the outer skin. If the skin is already raw, continued vigorous wiping can prolong pain and irritation.

• After cleaning, keep the anal area clean and dry. This is one of the measures recommended by the NIDDK to reduce anal discomfort.

Choose non-irritating wet wipes

• If using wet wipes, prioritize unscented, gentle, and free of ingredients that can easily cause irritation.

• Avoid using wipes with strong fragrances or products containing harsh antiseptics to wipe the anal area. Some products can irritate sensitive skin, especially when used multiple times a day.

• If wet wipes cause a burning sensation or itching around the anal area, stop using them and switch to soft toilet paper or wash with water.

Do not flush wet wipes down the toilet

• Even if the packaging says they are flushable, it is best not to flush wet wipes or other wipes down the toilet if the school does not have a suitable disposal system. Dispose of used wipes in the trash bin according to regulations.

• Only flush toilet paper designed to decompose in the plumbing system.

• After cleaning, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to limit the spread of agents that can cause diarrhea.

Skin protectants can be used for irritation

• If frequent bowel movements cause raw skin around the anus, a doctor or healthcare professional may recommend a suitable skin barrier product. The NIDDK states that moisture barrier creams can help reduce anal irritation.

• Do not self-apply products with fragrances, antiseptics, or medications to irritated skin without instruction.

• If pain or rawness persists, bleeding occurs, or symptoms become severe, inform a parent and seek medical advice.

Don't confuse hygiene with stopping diarrhea

• Carrying wet wipes helps you discreetly manage diarrhea at school and reduce anal discomfort, but it is not the fastest way to stop diarrhea.

• Treating diarrhea still requires focusing on rehydration and electrolyte replacement, maintaining appropriate nutrition, and addressing the cause when necessary.

• If diarrhea is accompanied by bloody stools, severe abdominal pain, fever, excessive vomiting, or signs of dehydration, immediately inform a parent, teacher, or healthcare professional instead of just trying to reduce anal irritation.

Prepare a contingency plan for diarrhea

Consider protective underwear if diarrhea recurs

• If you experience diarrhea at school frequently and are at risk of fecal incontinence, protective underwear or absorbent products for incontinence can be a contingency option.

• This product does not treat diarrhea and should not be considered a substitute for finding the underlying cause. Its main purpose is to mitigate the consequences if an unintentional incident occurs.

• If frequent use is necessary, especially when diarrhea is prolonged or recurrent, discuss this with parents and doctors to find the cause instead of relying solely on protective products.

Choose a discreet restroom if you feel embarrassed

• If you are worried about others hearing stomach noises or bowel movements, you can ask the nurse's office about a private restroom or a less-used area.

• If there is no private restroom, choose a less crowded time, such as an appropriate break, or ask the teacher for permission when needed.

• However, do not delay too long just to find a completely private restroom. When you need to use the restroom, prioritize health and safety over embarrassment.

Always inform your teacher when you need to leave the classroom

• If you are experiencing an urgent bowel movement, inform your teacher and ask to be excused as soon as possible. This is especially important if you have already discussed your health condition beforehand.

• Do not run out of class without informing your teacher or a healthcare professional if you can, as the school needs to know your whereabouts for safety.

• If you do not receive assistance and the situation is truly urgent, quickly find the nearest teacher, healthcare professional, or adult for help.

If you frequently miss school due to diarrhea, find the cause

• Prolonged or recurrent diarrhea should not be addressed solely by carrying emergency supplies. Many causes can lead to diarrhea, from infections, medications, food intolerances, to digestive disorders.

• If symptoms recur and affect your studies, record the timing of bowel movements, stool characteristics, food consumed, and any accompanying symptoms to provide information to your doctor.

• For individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or another digestive condition, a doctor can develop a suitable symptom management plan instead of just looking for the fastest way to stop diarrhea.

Know when to see a doctor

• Immediately inform parents or healthcare professionals if diarrhea is accompanied by bloody or black stools, severe abdominal pain, high fever, excessive vomiting, dizziness, infrequent urination, or signs of dehydration.

• If diarrhea is prolonged, recurrent, or causes you to frequently miss school, you should be evaluated by a doctor to determine the cause.

• The goal of treating diarrhea is not only to prevent incidents at school but also to protect hydration and electrolyte status, control symptoms, and address the cause if necessary.

References

1. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2024). Treatment of diarrhea. National Institutes of Health.
2. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2024). Eating, diet, & nutrition for diarrhea. National Institutes of Health.
3. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2024). Diarrhea. National Institutes of Health.
4. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2024). What I need to know about diarrhea. National Institutes of Health.
5. World Health Organization. (2024). Diarrhoeal disease. World Health Organization.
6. World Health Organization & UNICEF. (2006). Oral rehydration salts: Production of the new ORS. World Health Organization.
7. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2026). When students or staff are sick. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
8. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2026). Preventing spread of infections in K-12 schools. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
9. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2026). Everyday actions for schools to prevent and control the spread of infections. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Content edited by: Ashley Wright Nguyen.

Information consulted and verified by expert: Evelyn Clark.