Most cases of viral
gastroenteritis resolve over time without
specific treatment. The use of antibiotics
is not effective against viral infections.
The main goal of
treatment is to reduce the symptoms and to
prevent dehydration. Your body needs fluids
to function.
Dehydration is the loss
of fluids from the body. Important salts or
minerals, known as electrolytes, can also be
lost with the fluids. Dehydration can be
caused by diarrhea, vomiting, excessive
urination, or excessive sweating, or by not
drinking enough fluids because of nausea,
difficulty swallowing, or loss of appetite.
There are several steps
that you can take to help relieve the
symptoms of viral gastroenteritis.
The first step is to
allow your gastrointestinal tract to settle
down by not eating for a few hours. Take
small sips of clear liquids or eat ice chips
if you are still vomiting. Slowly
reintroduce bland foods like toast, broth,
bananas and rice. Try to avoid any dairy
products, caffeine, and alcohol until
recovery is complete and get plenty of rest.
There is no vaccine available for
gastroenteritis but you can try to
prevent it through washing your hands
thoroughly throughout the day, using
disinfecting spray or wipes and avoiding
water or food that may be contaminated.
