May 25, 2012
Topics A-Z Diarrhea Acute gastroenteritis
Acute gastroenteritis |
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Dear Ask The Doctor: I've had diarrhea now for 4 days, it's not letting up. I feel fine with no fever and just wonder what I can do to alleviate this. This is extremely rare for me. I am so regular 3 times a day and just am concerned , but embarrassed to go to the doctor. I've taken Bismuth only twice, that didn't work. I usually eat lean meats, rarely red meats, and consume a lot of different types of fish. I had two really fatty hamburgers 5 days ago at a picnic ( which is an unusual item in my diet) and a dozen oysters 6 days ago. The oysters are a normal bi-weekly food for me. This bane is about 8 times a day, usually morning. I take no meds at all outside of atenolol twice a day - nothing else. What else can I do. I'm thinking of trying immodium today. Dear John:From the acute onset of symptoms you describe, you most likely have inflammation of the gastro-intestinal tract or gastroenteritis. This is usually infective in origin, especially with common viruses and bacteria. It is usually self-limited and will run its own course, but can be complicated by dehydration. Treatment involves oral rehydration therapy with fluid and electrolyte solutions and the use of anti-diarrhoeal drugs such as Loperamide (Immodium) which are available in most drug-stores. If symptoms are not improving following administration of these medications, or you cannot tolerate oral fluids I would advise attending your family doctor as you may require intravenous fluids administration. |
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| Last Updated ( Thursday, 29 July 2010 ) |
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