Treatment Overview
In most cases, the diarrhea and
other symptoms of
go away in 2 to 3 days, and you do not
need treatment. It may be longer than 2 to 3 days until you feel normal
again.
All you have to do is manage symptoms, especially diarrhea,
and avoid complications until the illness passes. In most cases,
caused by diarrhea is the main
complication.
The goal of treatment is to replace fluids and
lost through vomiting and diarrhea. If
dehydration is severe and cannot be managed at home, you may need treatment in
the hospital, where fluids and electrolytes may be given to you by inserting a
needle into your vein ().
To prevent dehydration, take
frequent sips of a
rehydration drink (such as Pedialyte). Try to drink a cup of water or rehydration drink for each large,
loose stool you have. Soda
and fruit juices have too much sugar and not enough of the important
electrolytes that are lost during diarrhea and they should not be used to rehydrate. You can
.
Try to stay with your normal
diet as much as possible. Eating your usual diet will help you to get enough
nutrition. Doctors believe that eating a normal diet will also help you feel
better faster. But try to avoid foods that are high in fat and sugar. Also
avoid spicy foods, alcohol, and coffee for 2 days after all symptoms have
disappeared.
Medicines that stop diarrhea (such as Imodium) can
help with your symptoms. But these medicines should not be used in children or
if you have a high fever or bloody diarrhea.
are rarely used and only for certain types
of food poisoning or in severe cases.
Pregnant women with
listeriosis or
toxoplasmosis may receive antibiotics.
Children
Extra precautions should be
taken to prevent
.
- Symptoms of mild dehydration in your child include being irritable, agitated, fussy, or
restless and urinating less frequently than usual.
- Symptoms of moderate dehydration include a decreased interest
in play, sunken eyes with few tears, and urinating fewer than 3 times in 24
hours.
- Symptoms of severe dehydration
include a lack of interest in playing, extreme sleepiness, a dry mouth and
tongue, fast breathing, a rapid heartbeat, and not urinating for more than 12
hours. Severe dehydration is a medical emergency. Call 911 or other emergency services immediately.