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Viral Gastroenteritis
Alternate Names : Gastroenteritis - Viral, Norwalk Virus, Rotavirus Infection
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Viral Gastroenteritis Treatment
The objective of treatment is to replace fluids and electrolytes (salt and minerals) lost by diarrhea. Antibiotic therapy is not effective in viral illness. Antidiarrheal medications are generally not given, as they may prolong the infectious process. Self-care measures to avoid dehydration include drinking electrolyte solutions (available over-the-counter) to replace fluids lost by diarrhea.
People with diarrhea who are unable to take fluids by mouth because of nausea may need intravenous fluids, especially in small children.
People taking diuretics need to be cautious with diarrhea, and may need to stop taking the diuretic during the acute episode. (Always consult with the health care provider before stopping a prescribed medication!)
Do not give anti-diarrheal medications to children unless directed to do so by a health care provider. Since the risk of dehydration is greater in infants and young children, parents should closely monitor the number of wet diapers changed per day when the child is sick. Electrolyte and fluid replacement solutions for children are available in food and drug stores. Jell-O water, soda and plain water do not replace electrolytes the child needs when dehydrated from vomiting or diarrhea. Children with diarrhea often benefit from dietary modifications until the diarrhea subsides.
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Definition Viral Gastroenteritis Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors Viral Gastroenteritis Symptoms & Signs Viral Gastroenteritis Prevention Viral Gastroenteritis Diagnosis & Tests Viral Gastroenteritis Treatment Viral Gastroenteritis Prognosis Viral Gastroenteritis Complications Calling Your Health Care Provider
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Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
Common Cold Dehydration Immunodeficiency Disorders
Tests & Exams
Fecal Culture
Other Topics
Abdominal Pain Acute Antibody Confusion Diarrhea Dizziness Electrolytes Fainting Fever Intravenous Joint Pain Muscle Aches Nausea and Vomiting Skin - Clammy Sweating - Excessive Urinary Incontinence Urine Output - Decreased Vomiting Blood Weight Loss - Unintentional
Review Date : 3/3/2002
Reviewed By : Alan Greene, M.D., F.A.A.P., Chief Medical Officer, A.D.A.M.; Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine; Attending Physician, Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford (3/3/2002). Previously reviewed by David Loren, M.D., Division of Gastroenterology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (5/25/2001).
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