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Diarrhoea

The word diarrhoea, when translated from Greek, means “flow through”. People are diagnosed with diarrhoea when they have three or more loose bowel motions in a day. Often this is accompanied with sharp cramping stomach pain before the motion is passed and a desperate need to find a toilet quickly.

There are many causes of diarrhoea, but the most common cause for Australians is from a bacterial or viral infection. This is more common over the summer months when food may not be stored at temperatures low enough to prevent these organisms multiplying. The usual organisms that cause diarrhoea in Australia are Campylobacter and Salmonella; generally from poorly cooked or stored meat, especially chicken.

Traveller’s diarrhoea is common in countries where water quality is poor, and the organisms responsible for these infections are often Giardia and amoeba. Prolonged infection with these organisms may cause dysentery, which is acute diarrhoea accompanied with mucus and blood in the motions. Dysentery results in inflammation of the intestines and is persistent and often has serious consequences.

Diarrhoea may also be chronic, where the sufferer has frequent loose bowel motions for extended periods of time and may be a result of medical conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Some medications may also cause loose motions, either as an intended effect, such as from laxatives, or as an unwanted side effect.

If there is blood in a bowel motion, it is important to seek medical advice as soon as possible. Bleeding from the bowel can be a sign of more serious conditions, or may be from haemorrhoids (piles), which also need diagnosis and treatment.

If you or anyone in your family develops frequent bowel motions, then consult your community pharmacist. They can advise you on causes, or refer you to your doctor if medical treatment is required.

The most common result of diarrhoea is fluid depletion, or dehydration, as water and minerals are removed in the motions faster than you can replace them. It is important, particularly for children, to replace fluids and electrolytes quickly. Rehydration products are available from all pharmacies to treat diarrhoea. It is helpful to have a packet of rehydration sachets available at home, so that treatment may start as soon as the diarrhoea occurs. As a rule of thumb, one sachet of rehydration powder, made up to 200ml with water, should be taken after each loose motion for adults. Other products are also available to help with the symptoms of diarrhoea, but the best first treatment should always be rehydration. Similarly, your pharmacist can give you advice about changing your diet to help manage the symptoms of diarrhoea and speed up your recovery.

Consult your community pharmacist as they can advise you and give you information about the best treatment and prevention for diarrhoea. If you need to seek further help to manage your condition they will advise you of the urgency of this referral, and point you in the right direction for further assistance.

Family Pharmacy

Family Pharmacy Granville: What a Community Pharmacy Should Feel Like

When you step into a pharmacy, you expect more than just shelves of products. You want support, knowledge, and a familiar face. At Family Pharmacy Granville, we believe a pharmacy should feel like part of your everyday life. Like a trusted neighbour who’s always there when you need them.

We are not just a chemist or a warehouse. We are part of your community. And we’re proud to support your health, your family, and your future with genuine care.

A community pharmacy is about people, not just prescriptions. It is a place where locals come for honest answers, everyday health solutions, and friendly service. Whether you are picking up your regular medication, asking about a new script, or looking for relief from seasonal allergies, we are here to help with practical advice you can count on.

At Family Pharmacy Granville, we serve more than just customers. We support families from all walks of life. Our team takes the time to listen, explain and recommend what is best for you. It is this personalised approach that sets a real pharmacy apart from the rest.

In a busy world filled with large chain stores and self-serve checkouts, the local touch is often missing. But health is personal. It affects your body, your peace of mind, and the people you love. That is why community pharmacies still matter.

Our Granville team understands the cultural diversity, languages and family dynamics that make this area unique. We help grandparents understand new medications. We explain side effects in simple terms. We work with local GPs to ensure your care is connected and consistent.

That is the role of a true community pharmacy. And it is a role we take seriously.

Being a chemist is more than stocking shelves. It means being prepared, being patient, and being present. Every interaction with our pharmacists and staff is based on respect, privacy and professional standards. We follow strict AHPRA guidelines so you always receive ethical and evidence-informed information.

We are also proud to offer essential pharmacy services like prescription dispensing, Webster-paks for easier medication management, health advice, and home delivery options for eligible patients. These services are designed to make your life easier, safer and more manageable.

As a family-owned and operated pharmacy, we understand the pressures families face. Health issues do not always come with a warning. Kids get fevers at night, pain can flare up on weekends, and stress doesn’t wait for business hours. That is why our team is ready with solutions that are practical and accessible.

Whether you need over-the-counter relief, a quick chat with a pharmacist, or help choosing the right baby care product, we’re here to guide you through it with care and compassion.

Our pharmacy is built on values that never go out of style — trust, reliability, and a genuine interest in your well-being. We are not just a chemist or a warehouse. We are your local pharmacy. And we are proud to be part of your journey, every step of the way.

If you have not visited Family Pharmacy Granville yet, now is a great time to drop in and see what community care truly feels like.

Family Pharmacy Granville

The NUMBER 1 Family owned Pharmacy serving the local community for over 40 years. Experience how we can help you with all your medication and health needs and ask about our free services!