How to treat norovirus infection when pregnant?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 30-year-old female who has been suffering from norovirus infection during pregnancy. My doctor is worried about dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. My potassium level is 2.6 and my glucose level is 45. Contractions just started and I am scared. Please help.

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Norovirus infection in pregnancy only becomes concerning when it results in dehydration. This dehydration can result in a lot of things like decreased baby movement, can stimulate contractions, fatigue, headache, and sometimes fast heartbeat. That is why the dehydration needs to be corrected. This would help reverse most of the consequences of dehydration. So, your doctors would need to rehydrate you faster, which is the most likely reason why they are talking about admission. On your part, you should increase your fluid intake (preferably electrolyte-containing fluid like Pedialyte), and practice good hand hygiene and washing. You would be alright and your pregnancy would also be fine as the infection is self-limiting.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.