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E. coli enteritis

Alternative Names: Traveler's diarrhea - E. coli; Food poisoning - E. coli; E. coli diarrhea; Hamburger disease Treatment: Cases usually clear up on their own in 1 - 3 days, and no treatment is required. Antidiarrheal drugs may delay the elimination of the germs from the digestive tract, and therefore may not be recommended. Text Continues Below Rehydration with electrolyte solutions may be necessary if dehydration from diarrhea occurs. People with diarrhea (especially in young children) who are unable to take oral fluids because of nausea may need medical attention and intravenous fluids. 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. Avoid dairy products. They may make the diarrhea worse due to the temporary lactose intolerance that can arise. Expectations (prognosis): The illness usually runs its course in a few days, without treatment. Complications: Dehydration Prolonged diarrhea Temporary lactose intolerance afterwards Calling your health care provider: Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you are unable to keep fluids down, if diarrhea does not go away in 3 - 4 days, or if you see blood in the stool. Call your health care provider if you develop symptoms of dehydration, symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment, or new symptoms develop.

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