home remedies for gastroenteritis - #20732
I am really struggling right now, and I need some advice about home remedies for gastroenteritis. Last week, I thought I just had a stomach bug, but it turned out to be way worse. I’ve been dealing with nonstop nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It's been 3 days, and I feel completely drained. I've tried drinking ginger tea, which seemed to help a bit, but it’s hard to keep anything down, you know? I read somewhere that there are some home remedies for gastroenteritis like eating plain rice or bananas, but I'm not sure if I should just stick to liquids for now. I’ve also been thinking about using electrolyte drinks but don’t really wanna overdo it. My friend suggested some herbal teas as home remedies for gastroenteritis, but I’m worried that might irritate my stomach even more. I mean, has anyone found anything that actually works? I know we all have different bodies but I'm feeling really lost. Should I just wait it out or are there better home remedies for gastroenteritis that could help speed this up? The thought of being stuck in this miserable state for days is kind of freaking me out!
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Doctors' responses
With gastroenteritis, considering how it impacts you at this moment, it’s crucial first to manage those persistent symptoms like dehydration from prolonged vomiting and diarrhea. The basics still apply, starting with staying hydrated, which you’re already thinking about. Electrolyte drinks can actually be a good choice when used correctly. They help replenish what’s lost, especially beyond plain water, by restoring essential minerals. Try drinking small sips every few minutes instead of larger amounts, this way it’s easier to keep them down. Consider oral rehydration solutions specifically made for this, they can be more effective than regular sports drinks.
When it comes to solid food, it’s usually best to wait till vomiting subsides or at least tapers off. Start with bland foods that are less likely to irritate the stomach – bananas, rice, toast, and applesauce are classic recommendations, often referred to as the BRAT diet. These foods are more binding and can help with diarrhea. Ginger tea was a good choice because it can help calm nausea; just avoid anything too strong or acidically flavored.
About herbal teas, it’s true they might irritate some people’s stomachs. Chamomile could be a good option, it’s known for calming digestive upsets and is generally gentle on the stomach. But trust your own observations — how your body reacts to different things. The decision to wait it out depends on how severe and persistent your symptoms are. If these symptoms are unresolved or getting worse after this much time, or if you’re unable to keep anything down at all, it is critical to evaluate the need for medical care.
Significant signs like blood in vomit or stools, inability to urinate for 8+ hours, or a high fever are definite reasons to head to a healthcare provider. Also, if you’re immensely fatigued or dizzy, that’s a good reason to get checked. Remember that prolonged symptoms can lead to dehydration complications, so don’t wait too long to seek help if concerned.
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