Gastroenteritis is an uncomfortable infection that affects the digestive system. Fortunately, painkillers can help alleviate some of the symptoms. Nevertheless, it is essential to understand how to use them correctly to avoid side effects such as gastric irritation.

Symptoms of gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis causes a variety of symptoms. Among the most common are diarrhea and abdominal cramps. Nausea and vomiting are also common.

Other signs may include mild fever and headache. Some people experience intense fatigue or general weakness.

It's crucial to watch for symptoms of dehydration, including dry mouth and dark urine. If you notice a decrease in urination frequency or abnormal drowsiness, consult a healthcare professional promptly.

Children and the elderly are particularly at risk. If in doubt, ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice.

Gastroenteritis contagion

How is gastroenteritis transmitted?

Gastroenteritis is transmitted mainly via the fecal-oral route. The viruses, bacteria or parasites responsible are found in the feces of infected people. Poor hand hygiene after using the toilet can easily spread the infection.

Contaminated surfaces, such as door handles, worktops and toys, are common vectors. Soiled food and water can also be sources of contamination. For example, eating poorly washed fruit or vegetables can increase the risk of infection.

Direct contact with an infected person, such as kissing or shaking hands, also facilitates transmission. To limit the spread of the disease, it's essential to regularly disinfect your environment and wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water.

How long are you contagious?

The contagious period of gastroenteritis varies according to the origin of the infection. In general, a person is contagious as soon as symptoms appear, or a little before, and up to 48 hours after they have disappeared, sometimes even longer.

Depending on the cause of gastroenteritis, contagion may last longer. For example, certain bacteria can make a person contagious for up to 10 days after symptoms have ceased.

It's crucial to maintain rigorous hygiene to avoid spreading. Here are some practical tips:

• Wash hands frequently with warm water and soap, especially after using the toilet and before eating.
• Disinfect regularly touched surfaces, such as door handles and light switches.
• Avoid sharing utensils, towels or food with other family members.

By following these recommendations, you can reduce the risk of transmitting gastroenteritis[4] to those around you.

Can you catch gastroenteritis from the air?

It is generally accepted that this type of transmission is possible.  Recent studies have shown that viral particles can be dispersed in the air by vomiting. These particles can then be inhaled by people in the vicinity, increasing the risk of contagion. However, it is important to stress that this is not the most common form of transmission. In fact, the main route of transmission of gastroenteritis is direct contact with an infected person or contaminated objects. As a result, the risk of contracting gastroenteritis through the air remains relatively low compared to that of direct contact.

Closed, poorly ventilated spaces are particularly conducive to the airborne spread of the viruses responsible for gastroenteritis. It is therefore advisable to air rooms regularly and avoid close contact with infected people.

To reduce the risks, here are a few practical tips:

• Open windows for good ventilation.
• Avoid staying in confined spaces with a sick person.
• Use disinfectants on potentially contaminated surfaces.

Following these precautions can help limit airborne transmission of gastroenteritis.

Treatments to relieve gastroenteritis

Analgesics: relieving pain and fever

Various analgesics can be used to relieve the pain and fever associated with gastroenteritis. Acetaminophen is often recommended for its efficacy and good tolerance by the stomach.

It helps reduce fever and pain without causing gastric irritation. Ibuprofen (e.g. Advil, Motrin) can also be used, but is best avoided in cases of gastric problems, such as gastroenteritis, as it can irritate the stomach.

• Acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol, Tempra): relieves pain and reduces fever.

For more intense pain, doctors may sometimes prescribe opioids, but this is not common practice in gastroenteritis. Always consult a healthcare professional before taking any medication, especially to adjust the dose to individual needs and choose the best treatment.

Antidiarrheals: controlling symptoms

To control the symptoms of diarrhea, antidiarrheal medications are available over the counter from pharmacies. These products help to reduce the volume and frequency of bowel movements, which can be particularly useful during gastroenteritis. loperamide[6], for example, is frequently used to slow intestinal transit, but does not treat the underlying cause of gastroenteritis, only reduces the symptoms. However, its use may be inadvisable during gastroenteritis, especially in the presence of fever or pus or blood in the stools.

Consult your pharmacist before taking antidiarrheal. It is essential to follow the indicated dosage to avoid side effects. In the event of severe diarrhoea, medical consultation is necessary to treat the cause of the symptoms.

In addition to medication, it's crucial to maintain good hydration by drinking plenty of fluids. Here are some recommendations:

• Drink plenty of water
• Use oral rehydration solutions available in pharmacies
• Avoid sugary and carbonated drinks

These measures compensate for water and mineral losses, reducing the risk of dehydration.

Medicines to soothe gastro cramps

To soothe gastro cramps, certain drug options may be considered. The antispasmodics are particularly effective in reducing painful contractions of intestinal muscles. Among them, dicyclomine is sometimes suggested. This drug helps to relax the smooth muscles of the digestive tract, thus relieving cramps.

Analgesics such as acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol) can also be used to soothe abdominal pain or discomfort. Unlike ibuprofen, acetaminophen is less irritating to the stomach, making it a safe choice for gastroenteritis sufferers.

Which analgesic to choose for gastroenteritis?

Acetaminophen or ibuprofen: which to choose?

When choosing between acetaminophen and ibuprofen for gastroenteritis, there are several factors to consider. Acetaminophen is generally preferred because it is less irritating to the digestive tract. It helps reduce fever and relieve pain without aggravating gastrointestinal symptoms.

Ibuprofen, while effective in reducing inflammation, can cause gastric irritation, which is not ideal in cases of gastroenteritis. It is therefore advisable to avoid taking ibuprofen to avoid aggravating symptoms.

When in doubt, always consult a healthcare professional, such as your pharmacist, for personalized advice.

Opioid analgesics: what are they used for?

Opioid analgesics are used to relieve moderate to severe pain. They are often prescribed when other analgesics are not sufficiently effective. However, they are not a commonly prescribed treatment for gastroenteritis.

These drugs work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, diminishing the perception of pain. Here are some common examples of opioids:

• Morphine
• Oxycodone
• Hydromorphone

Opioids can be administered orally, intravenously or as transdermal patches. They are generally reserved for situations where pain is intense and difficult to manage with non-opioid analgesics.

However, their use must be supervised by a health professional, due to the risk of dependence and potential side effects such as constipation or drowsiness.

Viral gastroenteritis in children: how to get relief?

There are several steps you can take to alleviate viral gastroenteritis in children. First of all, it's crucial to prevent dehydration by regularly offering oral rehydration solutions. These solutions are specially formulated to compensate for water and electrolyte losses.

In terms of diet, it's advisable to break up meals to facilitate digestion and avoid fatty or difficult-to-digest foods. Cooked vegetables, starchy foods, applesauce and lean meats and fish are often recommended.

To soothe abdominal pain and cramps, heat can be beneficial. Applying a warm hot-water bottle to the child's tummy can provide noticeable relief.

Finally, make sure your child gets enough rest. Rest promotes recovery and helps the immune system fight infection more effectively.

Prevention and advice in case of gastroenteritis

What to do in case of gastroenteritis and how to treat it?

If you're dealing with gastroenteritis, there are several steps you can take to help manage symptoms and speed recovery.

First of all, hydrate regularly with small sips of water or an oral rehydration solution such as Gastrolyte, sold in pharmacies. Avoid alcohol and sugary or caffeinated drinks, which can aggravate dehydration.

Then rest as much as possible to allow your body to recover. Eat a light diet, focusing on easily digestible foods such as cooked vegetables, starchy foods and lean meats and fish.

To relieve abdominal pain, a warm hot water bottle placed on the belly can provide comfort.

Don't hesitate to take acetaminophen to relieve stomach aches or fever, but check with your pharmacist first to make sure it's safe for you.

If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional.

How long does gastroenteritis last?

The duration of gastroenteritis can vary according to its origin. In general, symptoms last between 24 and 72 hours. However, in some cases, particularly if the infection is contracted during a stay abroad, symptoms can last up to 10 days.

Viral gastroenteritis, which is the most common, often resolves itself in less than three days. Bacterial or parasitic infections, on the other hand, may require specific treatment and last longer.

For children and the elderly, recovery may take longer due to their more fragile immune systems. Adopting strict hygiene measures and consulting a health professional in the event of persistent symptoms are essential for an uncomplicated recovery.

Natural alternatives to drugs

Very few natural alternatives to drugs for relieving the symptoms of gastroenteritis have been shown to be effective. Here are a few options to consider:

• Ginger: Known for its anti-nausea properties, it can be taken as an herbal tea or in tablet form to soothe nausea and vomiting.
• Probiotics: According to some studies, certain strains may help restore intestinal flora and reduce the duration of diarrhea associated with gastroenteritis. Ask your pharmacist for more information.