How is gastroenteritis treated?

Gastroenteritis irritates the stomach and intestines, commonly causing diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, cramps and reduced appetite. The central concern is fluid and salt loss. Oral rehydration solution replaces both more effectively than plain water alone when losses are significant; take frequent small sips, particularly after vomiting. A GP can assess your hydration, symptoms, medicines and health conditions. Antibiotics are not suitable for every case because many episodes are caused by viruses.

Drink regularly and use oral rehydration therapy if advised. When appetite returns, start with small portions of familiar foods and continue fluids. Rest, wash hands carefully and avoid preparing food for other people while you are unwell. A pharmacist or GP can advise about symptom relief; some medicines are unsuitable for children, pregnancy or certain medical conditions. Keep track of urine, alertness and your ability to drink, since these help show whether dehydration is developing.

Seek urgent care if you cannot keep fluids down, become confused or unusually drowsy, pass very little urine, feel faint when standing, or have blood in vomit or stool. Prompt assessment is also needed for severe abdominal pain, persistent high fever, or symptoms in a very young child, an older adult or someone with significant medical problems. IV fluid therapy may be considered when oral fluids are not enough or cannot be tolerated.

Ask which rehydration drink is appropriate, how much to take in small sips, whether your medicines should be adjusted, and what signs mean you need IV fluids. Ask when it is safe to return to work, school or food preparation.