What is the first symptom of gastroenteritis?

Symptoms of Gastroenteritis With gastroenteritis, the main symptoms you probably have are watery diarrhea and vomiting. You might also have stomach pain, cramping, fever, nausea, and a headache. Because of diarrhea and vomiting, you also can become dehydrated.

What is the best medicine for gastroenteritis?

In some cases, adults can take over-the-counter medicines such as loperamide link (Imodium) and bismuth subsalicylate link (Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate) to treat diarrhea caused by viral gastroenteritis.

What can be mistaken for gastroenteritis?

Viral meningitis is an infection of the tissue that covers the spinal cord and brain. It’s caused by the same viruses that are associated with gastroenteritis. If you have viral meningitis, you might have symptoms that overlap with gastroenteritis, like fever, vomiting, or loss of appetite.

How can you tell the difference between viral and bacterial gastroenteritis?

The type of gastrointestinal symptoms are a clue to the type of infection – viral infection generally produces diarrhea without blood or mucus, and watery diarrhea is the prominent symptom. Conversely, mucus and blood are more often seen in bacterial diarrhea.

How can I get rid of gastroenteritis fast?

Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration – You need to drink more than usual to replace the fluids lost from vomiting and diarrhoea. Water is best, but you could also try fruit juice and soup. Take paracetamol for any fever or aches and pains. Get plenty of rest.

How can I treat gastroenteritis at home?

Lifestyle and home remedies

1. Let your stomach settle. Stop eating solid foods for a few hours.
2. Try sucking on ice chips or taking small sips of water.
3. Ease back into eating.
4. Avoid certain foods and substances until you feel better.
5. Get plenty of rest.
6. Be cautious with medications.

Will gastroenteritis go away on its own?

Gastroenteritis can be very unpleasant, but it usually clears up by itself within a week. You can normally look after yourself or your child at home until you’re feeling better. Try to avoid going to your GP, as gastroenteritis can spread to others very easily.

How long do gastroenteritis symptoms last?

Depending on the cause, viral gastroenteritis symptoms may appear within one to three days after you’re infected and can range from mild to severe. Symptoms usually last just a day or two, but occasionally they may persist as long as 10 days.

How painful can gastroenteritis be?

Gastroenteritis is an infection of the gut with microbes, which usually causes a mild tummy upset for a day or two. However, there is a more severe form that sticks around for several days. Apart from the watery poo and throwing up, you get blood in the poo and tummy pains for no extra charge.