How to Prevent and treat Gastroenteritis (Day 3)

Many cases of gastroenteritis do not go to the hospital except it becomes uncontrollable. People usually try some home remedies before deciding to go to the hospital.

When you see a doctor, he or she will want to know about the history of your symptoms before examining you. When examining you, the doctor will look out for certain things that will show how severe the condition is. For example,  if you are weak, have a fever or are dehydrated and lethargic. This will prompt a decision either to immediately start you on management or schedule you for tests if necessary .

Tests for Gastroenteritis

Tests that can be done include checking the stool for the offending organism or other signs of infection. 

Prevention of Gastroenteritis

To prevent coming down with episodes of #gastroenteritis, of utmost importance is a high level of personal and food hygiene.  Care needs to be taken in the choice, preparation and handling of food. Are you the kind that never prepares meals and always buys from vendors or bukkas? You have to be very careful as you may be exposing yourself to harmful viruses and bacteria, even for those that cook at home make sure you wash your vegetables and boil your meat properly.

Be especially careful with sea food. Teach Children and indeed adults how to properly wash their hands with soap and water after using the toilet and after  play outside. Children should avoid picking things from the floor and putting in their mouth. When traveling it may be necessary to carry your own drinking water or buying if you’re not sure. 

How to treat Gastroenteritis

We have come to the treatment of gastroenteritis. Luckily most cases will resolve on their own and you don’t have to do much just replace lost fluids and energy by drinking fluids and eating appropriately.

Oral rehydration formulas are cheap and easily available in pharmacies, all you need to do is dissolve in One litre of clean water which will be changed daily. For children, a syringe without a needle can be used to administer this fluid and they should be offered small amounts frequently until they are able to sip from a cup.

What about Antibiotics?

A lot of cases don’t require #antibiotics so please see a doctor first before you consider this option.

While recovering eating a diet that consists of Bananas, rice, apple sauce and toast is helpful. If you are breastfeeding please continue

Complications of Gastroenteritis

 Thankfully, most cases will resolve completely on their own or after you see a doctor. However there are a few occasions there may be complications. This may be due to poor or ineffective management or not recognising the problem on time.

Complications that may arise include generalised infections, dehydration and malnutrition, there is also a possibility of death if not well handled.

It is also useful to remember that for preventing viral causes of gastroenteritis, immunization of infants is helpful.  Ask your health care provider about rota virus immunization.

Also do not forget about proper personal hygiene and sanitation of the environment.

Join me tomorrow for a new topic.