Do I Need Antibiotics for Bacterial Gastroenteritis

Bacterial gastroenteritis is sometimes treated with antibiotics. If severe cases are not treated, they can lead to severe dehydration, neurological problems, kidney failure, and even death. Good hygiene is the best way to prevent bacterial gastroenteritis.

Will bacterial gastroenteritis go away on its own?

Bacterial gastroenteritis often goes away without treatment. In some cases, symptoms are gone in a day or 2. In others, symptoms linger for weeks. In certain cases, it can take months for your bowels to return to normal.

What is the best antibiotic for bacterial gastroenteritis?

Most mild infections will recover without antibiotics. Moderate to severe cases should be treated with antibiotics. Ampicillin is preferred for drug-sensitive strains. For ampicillin-resistant strains or in cases of penicillin allergy, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is the drug of choice, although resistance does occur.

Maya Lin-Takahashi

Maya Lin-Takahashi

Consumer Tech & Gadget Reviewer

Maya is a hardware enthusiast who tests and reviews smart home devices, smartphones, wearables, and audio gear. She focuses on practical consumer value and build quality.

Share this article
Twitter Facebook Pinterest