Common Ailments

VIRAL GASTROENTERITIS

Viral Gastroenteritis is a self-limited condition in which a virus causes inflammation of the lining of our stomach and intestines. It often causes symptoms of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and generally bad feeling.

CARE:

1. The key to success is taking small amounts of fluid frequently to prevent dehydration (a condition in which the body lacks adequate fluids to work properly).

2. Begin by taking 1 oz. of Gatorade or Pedialyte every 15 minutes to replenish your body’s supply of sodium, potassium, and glucose. If you are unable to keep these fluids down take 1 teaspoon every 10 minutes and gradually increase the amount that you sip. Eventually your goal should be 2 ozs. every 20 minutes.

3. Avoid solid food for 12 hours. If you are feeling better at that time, you may try bland foods such as toast, rice cakes or rice krispies, applesauce, jello, chicken noodle soup, or baked potato, small amounts frequently. If you tolerate these foods you may then start to advance your diet to other foods in small amounts.

4. Avoid all milk products for at least 48 hours after onset of your symptoms.

5. If you have a fever, you may take Tylenol every 4 hours as needed.

WARNING SIGNS:

1. Blood in your bowel movement or vomit.

2. Inability to urinate (to pass water) for longer than 5 hours at a time.

3. Inability to keep even 1 teaspoon of fluids down at a time after several attempts.

4. Fever greater than 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit.

5. If you are feeling worse or if you are not feeling significantly better within 4 to 5 days, please call us.