Shigella Enteritis
Alternate Names : Shigella Gastroenteritis, Shigellosis
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Shigella Enteritis Treatment
The natural course of the disease is 2-3 days. The objective of treatment is to replace fluids and electrolytes (salt and minerals) lost in diarrhea.
Antidiarrheal medications are generally not given because they may prolong the course of the disease.
Self-care measures to avoid dehydration include drinking electrolyte solutions to replace the fluids lost by diarrhea. Several varieties of electrolyte solutions are now available over the counter.
Antibiotics may be indicated for patients who are severely symptomatic. Sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (Bactrim), ampicillin, ciprofloxacin (Cipro), or chloramphenicol (Chloromycetin) are frequently used.
People with diarrhea who are unable to take fluids by mouth because of nausea may need medical attention and intravenous fluids, especially small children.
People taking diuretics need to be cautious if they develop diarrhea and may need to stop taking the diuretic during the acute episode, as directed by the health care provider.
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