There isn't a single "cure" for gastroenteritis, but the fastest way to recover focuses on supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
According to NHS Inform:
Here's what you should do:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. You need to drink more than usual to replace the fluids lost from vomiting and diarrhea. Water is best, but you could also try fruit juice and soup.
- Pain Relief: Take paracetamol for any fever or aches and pains.
- Rest: Get plenty of rest.
Essentially, letting the illness run its course while supporting your body is key. There is no medication to directly kill a viral gastroenteritis.
Key Steps for Recovery
The most important aspects of recovering quickly from gastroenteritis are:
- Hydration is paramount. Dehydration can lead to serious complications, so sipping fluids frequently is crucial.
- Examples: Water, diluted juice, oral rehydration solutions (ORS).
- Rest is essential. Your body needs energy to fight off the infection.
- Medication for Symptom Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol can help manage fever and aches.
What Not to Do
- Avoid anti-diarrheal medications unless specifically advised by a doctor, as they can sometimes prolong the illness.
- Do not take antibiotics unless specifically prescribed by a doctor. Gastroenteritis is often caused by viruses, which antibiotics do not treat.
- Avoid sugary drinks, as they can sometimes worsen diarrhea.
