Diarrhea and gastroenteritis are common digestive disorders. Their treatment relies mainly on hydration and rest. In some cases, medications may be used to relieve symptoms, such as antidiarrheals or antinauseants. These medications, available without prescription, can be used in certain circumstances, under the advice of a healthcare professional. In the event of persistent symptoms, it is essential to seek medical advice.
Understanding gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis symptoms
Gastroenteritis is mainly characterized by digestive symptoms. One of the most common signs is acute diarrhea. This may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting and abdominal cramps.
Some people may also experience general fatigue, low-grade fever and headaches. In some cases, a feeling of general malaise or weakness may be experienced.
The major risk, especially for children and the elderly, is acute dehydration. It is therefore essential to watch out for signs such as intense thirst, dry skin, increased fatigue and dark, scanty urine.
Particular attention should be paid if blood is found in the stools, as this may indicate a more serious form of the disease.
When should I consult?
If certain warning signs are present, medical attention is required. It is essential to consult a health professional if diarrhea persists for more than 72 hours, especially if accompanied by fever or intense abdominal cramps. You should also consult a health professional if you notice blood in your stools, or if you have difficulty rehydrating.
- If you return from a trip abroad and suffer from diarrhea lasting more than three days.
- If an elderly person or young child presents significant symptoms of gastroenteritis, immediate consultation is recommended.
- For people with chronic illnesses or kidney failure, a medical consultation is recommended as soon as the first symptoms appear.
Before opting for a self-medication anti-diarrheal treatment, it is advisable to seek the advice of a pharmacist, who will assess the suitability and safety of the treatment based on your symptoms and medical and pharmacological history.
Duration of gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis is a condition that usually resolves itself within a few days. Symptoms generally last between 24 and 72 hours, but can sometimes last up to 10 days, especially if the illness began during or on return from a trip abroad. However, the precise duration may vary according to the individual and the cause of the gastroenteritis. It should be noted that the affected person remains contagious for as long as symptoms are present, and generally for up to 48 hours after they have disappeared, sometimes even longer.
Treating gastroenteritis in adults
The role of antidiarrheals
Antidiarrheals play a role in relieving diarrhea. Their main purpose is to slow down intestinal movement, enabling better reabsorption of water and electrolytes, which helps to increase stool consistency and reduce frequency.
Antidiarrheal agents have several mechanisms of action:
- Transit retardants, which act by reducing peristalsis
- Antisecretory agents, which reduce the hypersecretion of water by the intestine.
It should be noted that these drugs are only used in certain specific cases, and must be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional. In fact, their use is not systematic and may be contraindicated in certain situations, such as severe diarrhea, blood or pus in the stools, or in the presence of fever.
Loperamide, a well-known drug
Loperamide, marketed under the brand name ImodiumMC , is an over-the-counter antidiarrheal that can help relieve diarrhea associated with gastroenteritis in adults. It helps slow intestinal transit, enabling the body to better absorb water, reducing stool frequency and volume.
Its effectiveness is generally rapid, with a noticeable improvement in the person's condition within hours of taking it.
It should be noted that loperamide is not recommended in cases of diarrhea accompanied by fever or blood in the stools. It is also not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women without medical advice. Your pharmacist can help you determine whether loperamide is safe for you, based on your symptoms and history.
Other medications effective against diarrhea
In addition to loperamide, other drugs can be used to reduce diarrhea. Bismuth subsalicylate, marketed under the brand name Pepto-BismolMC , has an antisecretory action that helps reduce diarrhea and symptoms of gastric discomfort. Probiotics may also be effective against certain types of diarrhea, including antibiotic-associated diarrhea, by helping to restore the balance of intestinal flora. Always consult a healthcare professional before taking any new medication or natural health product.
Managing other symptoms of gastroenteritis
Treatment of fever
Fever is a common symptom of gastroenteritis. Generally, if the fever is moderate (less than 39°C), it can be calmed with acetaminophen. Regular monitoring and rest are recommended. In the event of high or persistent fever, it is imperative to consult a doctor. Antiparasitic or antibiotic treatment may be necessary, depending on the origin of the gastroenteritis. Antidiarrheal medication is not recommended in the presence of fever without the advice of a health professional.
Anti-vomiting drugs
To control the vomiting associated with gastroenteritis, there are various medications available, known as antiemetics. These include dimenhydrinate, ondansetron and metoclopramide. These drugs are designed to stop nausea and vomiting by acting in several ways.
- Dimenhydrinate is an antihistamine that acts directly on the brain's vomiting center, reducing nausea and vomiting.
- Ondansetron is a selective 5-HT3 receptor antagonist, which means it blocks the action of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in the vomiting center of the brain.
- Metoclopramide acts by blocking dopamine receptors, but it also has a stimulating effect on the muscle that separates the stomach from the small intestine, speeding up the passage of food through the stomach.
These drugs should be used under medical supervision and are not recommended for long-term use. Dosage depends on the severity of symptoms and the patient's age. Side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness and headaches may occur.
Nutrition during and after gastroenteritis
Diet during gastroenteritis
The diet to follow during gastroenteritis should promote rehydration and restoration of intestinal function. Start by drinking plenty of fluids to compensate for the loss of water and mineral salts. This can include:
- Oral rehydration solutions, sold in pharmacies or which you can make yourself
- Water
- Chicken or beef broth
Your choice of solid foods should be based on their digestibility and their ability to strengthen your intestinal flora. A normal, balanced diet helps to speed up the healing of your intestine, which is why it's important to continue eating as much as possible.
- Vegetables: opt for well-cooked vegetables that are easy to digest and provide vitamins, such as carrots or zucchinis.
- Meat and fish: opt for lean meats and grilled fish, which are easy-to-digest sources of protein.
- Starchy foods: include foods like rice and potatoes for their energy and low-fiber content.
- Fruit: fresh or canned fruit in juice (not syrup) is generally well tolerated.
- Avoid high-fiber foods such as raw vegetables, highly acidic foods and spicy dishes, which can irritate your digestive system. Avoid lactose-containing dairy products and high-fat foods, as well as caffeine and alcohol.
Hygiene rules to prevent contagion
To avoid contagion of gastroenteritis, a few basic hygiene practices are essential.
- Hand-washing: This involves regular hand-washing with soap and lukewarm water. This is particularly important after using the toilet, before preparing meals and before eating or touching your face.
- Surface cleaning: Frequently touched surfaces such as door handles and taps should be regularly cleaned and disinfected.
- Food management: Avoid handling food if you are ill. Always use clean utensils to handle food.
- Sanitary precautions: In the event of diarrhea, it's crucial to clean and disinfect toilet seats and any other surfaces potentially contaminated by stool or vomit.
It is essential to observe these hygienic practices to limit the spread of the disease.
The use of antibiotics in the treatment of diarrhea
When are they needed?
Antibiotics are necessary in the treatment of gastroenteritis when the cause is bacterial or parasitic. After a stool examination, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics such as azithromycin or ciprofloxacin, depending on the agent involved.
However, antibiotics are generally not recommended for viral gastroenteritis, the most common form of gastroenteritis, as they have no effect on viruses. Instead, treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms and preventing dehydration.
Precautions when using antibiotics
When using antibiotics to treat diarrhea, certain precautions are essential to ensure their effectiveness and minimize the risk of side effects.
First and foremost, it's vital to follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor. Excessive or inappropriate use of antibiotics can lead to drug resistance, making future treatments less effective.
Secondly, never stop antibiotic treatment on your own initiative, even if symptoms have improved. Unfinished treatment can lead to relapse or antibiotic resistance. Your pharmacist can tell you when to stop antibiotic treatment when you receive it.
Finally, antibiotics can alter the intestinal flora and cause digestive disorders. Taking a probiotic designed for antibiotic-associated diarrhea could help reduce potential side effects.
- Follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor.
- Never stop taking antibiotics without medical advice.
- Consider taking a probiotic to restore intestinal flora.
If you have any doubts or questions, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Summary of methods to relieve gastroenteritis
A variety of methods can be used to alleviate gastroenteritis. First and foremost, rehydration is essential. An oral rehydration solution, rich in glucose and electrolytes, can be beneficial.
In terms of medications, antidiarrheals such as loperamide (also known as ImodiumMC ) are sometimes used to relieve diarrhea, although their use depends on the severity of symptoms. Antiemetics can be useful in controlling nausea and vomiting.
Finally, a balanced, light diet can help heal the intestinal mucosa more quickly.
