HomeAnswersGeneral MedicinediarrheaAre antibiotics necessary for diarrhea?

Do I need antibiotics for diarrhea?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Uphar Gupta

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At July 5, 2016
Reviewed AtAugust 16, 2023

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.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Uphar Gupta
Dr. Uphar Gupta

Internal Medicine

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

General Medicine

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy