What about probiotics?
Some research studies suggest that taking probiotics may reduce the duration of diarrhoea by about one day. Probiotics are dietary supplements of 'good, non-harmful' bacteria or yeasts. The theory is that these 'good' bacteria and yeasts multiply in the gut and protect the gut from the 'bad' infecting bacteria or virus. Probiotics are not available on NHS prescription. If you wish to try them you can buy them at supermarkets and other stores. Probiotics are sold as capsules, yoghurt products, etc. There is no evidence to prefer any particular form, strength, or dose.
Are there any complications that may occur from gastroenteritis?
Complications are uncommon in the UK and include the following:
- Dehydration and salt (electrolyte) imbalance in the body. This is the most common complication. If a child drinks well then it is unlikely to occur, or is only likely to be mild and soon recover as the child drinks. Symptoms of dehydration include: passing little urine, a dry mouth and tongue, sunken eyes, weakness, drowsiness, cool hands or feet. Severe dehydration can be fatal as the main organs of the body need a certain amount of water to function. Occasionally, if a child becomes severely dehydrated, they need to be admitted to hospital for fluid to be given directly into a vein via a 'drip'.
- Haemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS). This is is rare. It is a disorder that can lead to kidney failure. Most cases occur following a gut infection caused by a bacteria called E. coli O157.
- Reactive complications. Rarely, other parts of the body 'react' to an infection that occurs in the gut. This can cause symptoms such as arthritis, skin inflammation, eye inflammation (conjunctivitis and uveitis).
- Spread of infection to other parts of the body. This is rare.
- Malnutrition may follow some gut infections. This is mainly a risk in developing countries.
- Persistent diarrhoea syndromes may rarely develop.
- Irritable bowel syndrome is sometimes triggered by a bout of gastroenteritis.
See a doctor if any of the following develop, or if any other symptoms occur that you are concerned about.
- If you suspect dehydration is developing.
- Blood in the diarrhoea.
- Vomiting for more than one day, or diarrhoea that does not start to settle after 3-4 days.
- Pains that are getting worse.
- Drowsiness or confusion.
- Infections caught abroad.
Admission to hospital is sometimes needed if symptoms are severe, or if complications develop.
