Acute gastroenteritis requires medication.

Written by Jiang Guo Ming
Gastroenterology
Updated on September 04, 2024
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The drug treatment for acute gastroenteritis should be based on the specific cause. If it is a viral infection that causes gastroenteritis, it can generally be treated with oral antiviral drugs and astringent antidiarrheal drugs to achieve good therapeutic effects. If it is caused by improper food intake and bacterial infection, it usually requires the use of antibacterial drugs, such as cephalosporins or quinolones for anti-inflammatory purposes. If diarrhea is severe, appropriate antidiarrheal drugs can be taken for symptomatic treatment. At the same time, attention should be paid to a light and easily digestible diet, avoiding raw, greasy, spicy food and alcohol, which can generally relieve symptoms gradually.

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Written by Li Ying
Gastroenterology
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Where does acute gastroenteritis come from?

Acute gastroenteritis is primarily an acute inflammation of the gastrointestinal mucosa. It is mainly characterized by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever, and is commonly seen in the summer and autumn seasons. It is primarily caused by improper diet, overeating, or consumption of raw, spoiled, or unclean food. The condition is mainly due to bacterial or toxin infection, often seen in group outbreaks or family clusters. It can be caused by the consumption of infected fish, meat, poultry, or seafood, or by leftovers contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus, among others. Moreover, accidental ingestion of strong acids, strong alkalis, or certain pesticides can also cause this disease.

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Written by Zhai Guo Dong
Gastroenterology
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How to alleviate gastroenteritis pain

Gastritis pain often falls into the category of spasmodic pain. We can provide patients with appropriate gastrointestinal antispasmodics, such as Atropine tablets, which can have a symptomatic effect. Additionally, we advise patients to avoid using painkillers, as common analgesics may mask the symptoms. Therefore, we only provide symptomatic treatment for spasms. If the symptoms do not improve and the pain intensifies, we still recommend that patients undergo further examinations to rule out conditions such as gastrointestinal obstruction or other complications like perforations.

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Written by Zhu Dan Hua
Gastroenterology
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How long does acute gastroenteritis take to heal?

The natural course of acute gastroenteritis is about one to two weeks, so it is recommended that patients undergo regular treatment. Acute gastroenteritis is commonly seen in clinical practice, with patients generally presenting with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and abnormal stools. The main manifestation of stool abnormalities is an increase in the frequency of bowel movements, appearing as diarrhea, with the stools being watery. Additionally, patients may experience some fever and chills. Given the symptoms of acute gastroenteritis and its short duration, it is generally considered to be caused by viral or bacterial infections. Therefore, treatment can involve the use of anti-infective medications in small doses, especially when the patient has a fever. Other medications can include acid suppressants, mucosal protectants, antidiarrheals, and those affecting the intestinal flora, so the treatment generally has a good effect. Patients need not worry too much, and we adhere to a 1-2 week treatment period. (Medication should be taken under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Jiang Guo Ming
Gastroenterology
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How to stop diarrhea in acute gastroenteritis

First of all, start with diet and daily habits by paying attention to keeping warm and avoiding catching a cold, especially for patients with gastrointestinal-type colds. The diet should consist of light and easy-to-digest foods, such as porridge and soft noodles, with some salt added to replenish electrolytes. Avoid eating foods that are too cold or greasy and spicy. Regarding medication, different treatments should be adopted according to different causes of the disease. For patients with gastrointestinal-type colds caused by viral infections, antiviral and astringent antidiarrheal medications are generally used. If the infection is caused by improper diet, the main treatment involves anti-inflammatory medications to achieve hemostasis.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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Manifestations of chronic gastroenteritis

Chronic gastroenteritis primarily manifests as chronic inflammation of the stomach and intestines, which can include chronic abdominal pain, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. Due to poor appetite and impaired digestive absorption, symptoms such as physical emaciation, fatigue, and lethargy can occur, making one more susceptible to catching colds. For chronic gastroenteritis, it is important to adjust the imbalance of gut flora and use antibiotics to control infections. Attention should be paid to a light, regular diet, eating three meals at fixed times and amounts, avoiding greasy and spicy foods, and consuming more light vegetables and fruits. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor)