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Do I need antibiotics for diarrhea?

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Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Four days ago, when I was away from home for some work, I felt sick and my hands and feet were numb for several hours. Then, I had fever for three nights with soaking sweats followed by continuous diarrhea for the last four days. I am going nearly 8 to 12 times a day. I read the symptoms on Campylobacter and it seems pretty similar. Do I need antibiotics? Does it go away by itself? I assume that I should not take medicine to stop the diarrhea. I did have chicken before all of this started. Not sure if that is connected. Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Uphar Gupta

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Diarrhea can be due to a multiple number of organisms and may have a similar presentation as you. It may be due to virus or bacteria. The first thing is to take plenty of fluids. If ORS (oral rehydration salts) is available, then that will be the best choice. Next, take probiotics such as Lactobacillus spores (Tablet Sporlac) three times daily. It does replenishment of good bacteria. If diarrhea continues, then please get a stool examination and we shall start antibiotic accordingly.

Answered byDr. Uphar Gupta

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At July 5, 2016
Reviewed AtAugust 16, 2023

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