How Do I Treat Acute Gastroenteritis?
Acute gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach. It can be caused by a parasite, a bacterium, or a virus. A foodborne illness may also lead to acute gastroenteritis. Symptoms include stomach cramps, diarrhea, and nausea. It is important to treat acute gastroenteritis is to prevent dehydration.
Try to drink small amounts of clear fluids, such as water or oral re-hydration solutions. Start with up to 120 milliliters every hour, and increase fluids gradually as tolerated. Avoid juices, which contain a large amount of sugar and can often increase diarrhea.
If fluids cannot be kept down and vomiting continues, watch for signs of dehydration. In children and infants, signs include irritability, sunken eyes, and a decrease in wet diapers or urination. The soft spot on the baby’s head may also become sunken in. In adults and older children, signs of dehydration may include dizziness, no urine output or very dark urine.
Dehydration can be serious, especially in young children and the elderly. If signs of dehydration are present, intravenous fluid replacement may be needed to treat acute gastroenteritis and prevent complications. If you suspect dehydration, call your doctor right away or go to a hospital emergency room.
Once fluids are kept down for a few hours, small amounts of bland foods can be started. The BRAT diet is often recommended after acute gastroenteritis. This diet consists of bananas, rice, applesauce and bread or toast. Bland foods are usually easier to digest and better tolerated after acute gastroenteritis.
Add additional foods after symptoms have stopped. However, the stomach may still be irritated and easily upset a few days after vomiting and diarrhea have stopped. Avoid eating foods which are greasy or fried and may cause an upset stomach. Alcoholic drinks should also be avoided.
If acute gastroenteritis is caused by bacteria, such as salmonella, antibiotics may be given, but they are usually not prescribed to treat acute gastroenteritis caused by a virus. Additional ways to treat acute gastroenteritis may include medications to decrease diarrhea and vomiting. Medication may be over the counter or prescription and may come in the form of a syrup, pills or liquid. Intravenous anti-nausea medications may also be used in hospitals to reduce vomiting and treat acute gastroenteritis.
Most cases of acute gastroenteritis clear up in a few days. Getting plenty of rest will help build strength back up. Call a doctor if symptoms continue for more than five days or two days in infants and young children.
Written by M. DePietro
