digestive disorders
Norovirus Gastroenteritis
Treatment of Norovirus Gastroenteritis
Fluids and rehydration solutions Sometimes medications Usually the only treatment needed for norovirus gastroenteritis is getting bed rest and drinking an adequate amount of fluids. Even a person who is vomiting should drink as much as can be tolerated, taking small frequent sips. If vomiting or diarrhea is prolonged or the person becomes severely dehydrated, fluids and electrolytes given by vein (intravenously) may be needed. Because children can become dehydrated more quickly, they should be given fluids with the appropriate mix of salts and sugars. Any of the commercially available solutions designed to replace lost fluids and electrolytes (called Treatment ) are satisfactory. Carbonated beverages, teas, sports drinks, beverages containing As the symptoms subside, the person may gradually add foods to the diet. Although often recommended, there is no need to limit the diet to bland foods such as cereal, gelatin, bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. However, some people are unable to tolerate milk products for a few days after having diarrhea. If the diarrhea continues for 24 to 48 hours and there is no blood in the stool to indicate a more serious bacterial infection, the doctor may prescribe a medication to control the diarrhea, such as diphenoxylate, or instruct the person to use an over-the-counter medication, such asloperamide. These medications (called antidiarrheal medications) are not given to children under 18 years of age with acute diarrhea. Antidiarrheal medications are also not given to people who have recently used antibiotics, who have bloody diarrhea, who have small amounts of blood in the stool that are too small to be seen, or who have diarrhea and fever. Antibiotics and antiviral medications are not given. 