Gastroenteritis Symptoms and Effective Treatment Approaches

Gastroenteritis often results from improper diet or exposure to cold and damp conditions, leading to symptoms such as stomach pain, abdominal discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhea. Some individuals may also experience mild fever. This condition can be triggered by consuming contaminated food, which may not always show elevated white blood cell or neutrophil levels in blood tests. However, in certain cases, bacterial infection—most commonly caused by E. coli—can be the underlying factor. In such instances, blood work typically reveals an increased white blood cell count and a higher percentage of neutrophils.

Understanding the Symptoms

The diarrhea associated with gastroenteritis is often yellow or greenish in color and watery in consistency. Abdominal pain usually precedes bowel movements, and the discomfort tends to subside afterward. Recognizing these symptoms early can help in managing the condition effectively and preventing complications.

Treatment Options Based on Diagnosis

When no bacterial infection is detected and the patient does not present with a fever, antibiotics are generally not required. Instead, treatment focuses on restoring gut balance through probiotics and medications that regulate intestinal motility. Commonly prescribed drugs include Trimebutine Maleate and Mosapride Citrate, which help alleviate symptoms by improving gastrointestinal movement in a balanced manner.

Alternative and Herbal Therapies

Traditional herbal remedies, such as Fengliao Changweikang Granules or customized herbal decoctions, have also shown promising results in managing gastroenteritis. These natural treatments can support digestive health and reduce inflammation without the side effects often associated with conventional medications.

Antibiotic Use in Bacterial Infections

If blood tests indicate a significant rise in white blood cells and neutrophils, bacterial infection is more likely, and antibiotic therapy becomes necessary. Fluoroquinolones like Levofloxacin are commonly prescribed for such cases. However, it's important to note that fluoroquinolones should be avoided in children under 18 years of age due to the risk of premature bone growth plate closure, which could potentially stunt growth.