However, medical treatment is essential if symptoms worsen or if there are complications. Infants, young children, the elderly, and persons with underlying disease require special attention in this regard . The greatest danger presented by gastroenteritis is dehydration. The risk of dehydration increases as symptoms are prolonged. Dehydration should be suspected if a dry mouth,increased or excessive thirst, or scanty urination is resolve by itself.
A person may use over-the-counter medications such as PeptoBismol to relieve the symptoms. These medications work by altering the ability of the intestine to move or secrete spontaneously, absorbing toxins and water, or altering intestinal micro flora. Some over-the-counter medicines use more than one element to treat symptoms