How to manage norovirus?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 33-year-old wedding planner, and three days ago, I suddenly developed severe nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. I attended a large banquet event just before the symptoms started, and later heard that several other attendees also got sick. I have been trying to stay hydrated, but I still feel weak and lightheaded when I stand up. How can I determine whether this is norovirus or something more serious like food poisoning from bacteria? Should I visit urgent care, or is rest and hydration enough? I have another event scheduled in two days. Will I still be contagious by then?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

If you are feeling lightheaded that could be a sign of low blood pressure. You certainly need to stay hydrated. If it is possible get your blood pressure checked and if it is low, you may need to get admitted. In the meantime, you should rest and consider medicines advised by me.

The probable causes of this condition include:

Acute viral gastroenteritis.

I suggest the following tests:
1. Complete blood count (CBC).
2. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).
3. C-reactive protein test.
4. Stool routine test.
5. Random blood sugar (RBS) test.
  
  The probable diagnosis is acute viral gastroenteritis.
  
  I recommend the following:
  1. Capsule VSL 3 (probiotic) is to be taken daily once for 10 days.
  2. Capsule Redotil (Racecadotril) 100 mg (anti-diarrheal) twice daily for three days.
  3. Oral rehydration solution (ORS) is to be taken in one liter of water thrice daily for three days.
    
    Preventive measures include:
    1. Avoid driving or working on machines.
      
      Do follow-up with reports. Kindly consult a specialist doctor, discuss with them, and take medications with their consent.
      
      I hope this helps.
      
      Thank you.