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remedies for dysentery
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Digestive Health
Question #15046
45 days ago
93

remedies for dysentery - #15046

Neil

I am really struggling with what seems to be dysentery for the past few days. It hit me like a train—you know, one minute I was fine and then I was running to the bathroom every few minutes. The cramps are the worst! I haven't even wanted to eat much because of it. I’ve been drinking a ton of fluids, but it doesn't feel like that’s enough. I talked to my doctor and he mentioned some typical remedies for dysentery, but I forgot all the details because I was freaking out. I’m just really confused about what actually works. I’ve tried some ginger tea, which I heard is good, but it hasn't helped much, to be honest. I also read somewhere about bananas and rice being good for setting my stomach right, but I don’t know if those are actual remedies for dysentery, or just old wives’ tales? Can anyone share what remedies for dysentery actually helped them? Like, is there a particular herbal thing you found worked, or should I stick with over-the-counter stuff? I feel like I need something that can kick this quickly because I have a busy week ahead! Am I missing anything crucial?

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Doctors’ responses

For dysentery, focusing on keeping hydrated and treating the underlying cause is crucial. Rehydration is key—oral rehydration solutions (ORS) from the pharmacy are effective, they replace lost fluids and electrolytes much better than water alone. Preparing an ORS at home is simple: mix 6 teaspoons sugar and half a teaspoon of salt into 1 liter of clean water. This can help prevent dehydration, especially when experiencing frequent, loose bowel movements. Avoid beverages with caffeine or alcohol as they may worsen dehydration. Since dysentery often involves bacterial infection, prescription antibiotics might be required depending on the severity and your recent travel history — antibiotics are not needed for viral causes. Listen to any specific advice already given by your doctor on this. Bananas and rice are part of the BRAT diet—bananas, rice, applesauce, toast—known to be easy on the stomach, though not a treatment itself, they might help minimize further irritation and provide some nutritional support. You mentioned ginger tea, which is often used for nausea but might not directly help with dysentery. Also, avoid dairy products until recovery, as they can exacerbate symptoms. Over-the-counter meds such as loperamide can help manage diarrhea, but should only be used if you aren’t experiencing a fever or blood in stools, which are red flags indicating a need for immediate medical attention. If symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by high fever, blood, or severe dehydration signs like dizziness, seek urgent care.

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