treatment for stomach infection - #17569
I am really worried about this stomach issue I've been dealing with the past week. It all started after I had some questionable street food – yes I know, not the best idea. It was really greasy and kinda raw-looking. Just a couple of hours later, I was hit with a ton of cramps and nausea! It was terrible. I couldn’t eat anything without feeling queasy. I tried some over-the-counter meds, but they didn’t do much. I finally went to the doc, and she mentioned it could be a stomach infection and prescribed me some antibiotics. She said it was important to get the right treatment for stomach infection, but I’m not sure if it’s the best route. I mean, I don’t want to mess with my gut health more than I already have, you know? I read online about probiotics and other natural treatments too but I'm confused. Like, should I just stick with the antibiotics or is there a good treatment for stomach infection that’s more natural? Ugh, I just don’t know what to do here. I don’t wanna end up feeling worse. Any thoughts on what might actually work for treatment for stomach infection, and if there are any side effects to worry about?
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
Deciding on the right course for treating a stomach infection often hinges on the specific cause. Given that symptoms started soon after consuming undercooked food, it’s likely you’re dealing with something bacterial. In such cases, antibiotics are typically effective because they target the root cause of the infection, potentially offering quicker relief from intense symptoms like pain and nausea. Yet, antibiotics can disrupt your gut microbiome, leading to side effects like diarrhea or yeast infections. To minimize this, taking a probiotic alongside antibiotics may help maintain healthy gut flora, but choose one with Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium species known for gut health support. However, using just probiotics for a bacterial infection without antibiotics may not effectively clear the infection. Consuming natural remedies like ginger or peppermint can alleviate nausea or bloating, but won’t solve bacterial overgrowth if it’s a confirmed infection. A bland diet—think rice, bananas, apple sauce—can help soothe the stomach. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration from any diarrhea or vomiting. It’s essential though to complete the antibiotic course as prescribed to prevent resistance or recurrence. If there’s no improvement or if severe symptoms like high fever, bloody stools, or constant vomiting persist, seek prompt medical follow-up. This could indicate a more serious condition needing urgent care. Always prioritize evidence-based treatment and communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any concerns or side effects you may encounter.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.