Gastroenteritis or “runny tummy” is an inflammation of stomach and intestinal lining causing diarrhoea and/or vomiting. This is usually caused by viruses and occasionally by bacteria. It is a common self-limiting condition, meaning that in most cases it settles by natural healing over a few hours or a few days.
WHO SHOULD SEE A HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL?
- Any child under the age of 3 months;
- Any child that you suspect is becoming dehydrated;
- Symptoms not settling with basic treatment within 48 hours;
- Any aged person who is becoming confused;
- Diabetics;
- If antibiotics have been prescribed within the last 2 weeks for any reason;
- In healthy adults, where diarrhoea is associated with travel to an unusual destination;
- There is blood or mucus in the stool;
WHAT TO DO IN OLDER CHILDREN AND ADULTS:
Avoid the following for a few days, up to 1-2 days after feeling better:
× Caffeinated drinks (tea/coffee/soft drinks such as Coke)
× Dairy products
× Bread
× Alcohol
× Citrus fruit drinks
Eat the following for a few days, up to 1-2 days after feeling better:
√ Complex carbohydrates such as rice, pasta and potatoes
√ Lean protein foods such as chicken breast or fish (avoid condiments)
Drink the following:
√ Water
√ Isotonic drinks such as Lucozade/Energade
√ Fruit juice (dilute with 1/3 water)
√ Herbal teas
√ Rehydration mixes
Medication to reduce diarrhoea:
√ SMECTA
√Codeine (found in e.g. Mypradol/GenPayne)
√ Imodium
√ Kantrexil