Shigella enteritis
Alternative names:
shigella gastroenteritis; shigellosis
Treatment:
Natural course of the disease is 2-3 days. The objective of treatment is to replace fluids and electrolytes (salt and minerals) lost by diarrhea.
Antidiarrheal medications are generally not given, as they may prolong the infectious process.
Self-care measures to avoid dehydration include drinking electrolyte solutions to replace the fluids lost by diarrhea. Several varieties of pleasant-tasting electrolyte solutions are available over-the-counter.
Antibiotics may be indicated for those who are severely symptomatic. Trimethoprim and/or sulfamethoxazole, ampicillin, ciprofloxacin, or chloramphenicol are frequently used.
People with diarrhea who are unable to take fluids by mouth because of nausea may need medical attention and intravenous fluids, especially small children.
People taking diuretics need to be cautious with diarrhea, and may need to stop taking the diuretic during the acute episode as directed by the health care provider.
Expectations (prognosis):
Often the infection is mild and self-limited. Prognosis is excellent except among malnourished and immunocompromised children.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Call your health care provider if diarrhea does not improve, blood is noted in the stools, or if dehydration seems to be developing.
Go to the emergency room if seizures occur or if confusion, lethargy, headache with stiff neck, or similar symptoms develop in a person with shigellosis (these symptoms are most common in children).
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