What one must understand with intestinal flu or viral gastroenteritis is that this condition is viral in origin. Viral infections are mostly self limiting conditions- which means that whether you take drugs or not, the condition will resolve naturally.
But hold on, this doesn’t mean you won’t try to do any remedies or attempt to get rid of the inconvenient signs and symptoms of an intestinal flu. Definitely, there are things which your physician can prescribe (in serious cases) or remedies you can do at home to lessen the discomforts associated with this condition.
Intestinal Flu Treatment Options
Intravenous Fluids. If the patient suffering from intestinal flu and is unable to take in fluids, an intravenous fluid is necessary. Doing this will replenish the fluids and electrolytes that are excreted in episodes of diarrhea and vomiting.
Drug Therapy for Symptomatic Treatment. If vomiting becomes uncontrolled and unrelieved for days, you may take over-the-counter anti-emetic medications. Anti-diarrheal medications are not usually recommended because defecating is one way of getting rid of the toxins inside the intestines. Most of the time, intestinal flu may be accompanied with fever so OTC Paracetamols and Antipyretics may be given.
Bring Back What Was Lost. Drink plenty of fluids (clear fluids) for the first 24 hours of intestinal flu. It is a must to drink clear fluids, preferably water to avoid further irritation of the intestinal mucosa. Remember you are losing fluid through vomiting and diarrhea- add that up to the normal methods of fluid loss through sweat, urination, etc. The last thing that we want to happen is dehydration. Be sure to drink enough fluid to keep your body well hydrated and replenished.
Rest, Rest and More Rest. Just like an ordinary flu, our intestines also need an ample amount of rest during intestinal flu attacks. This will promote relaxation of the gastrointestinal tract and prevent further episodes of vomiting and diarrhea. With enough rest, your immune system will be able to take care of the problem and slowly destroy these infectious microorganisms in your body.
The Intestinal Flu is usually expected to resolve itself in three to five days. If after that time frame you are still experiencing harsh symptoms, hospitalization and further medical attention for your intestinal flu may be required.
Rachel Greenlee
on Mar 15th, 2011
@ 12:36 am:
I love it when people come together and share opinions, great blog, keep it up.