When to Seek Medical Care

Most often gastroenteritis is self-limiting, but it can cause significant problems with dehydration. Should that be a concern, contacting your primary care provider is reasonable.

Vomiting blood or having bloody or black bowel movements are not normal, and emergency care should be accessed. Some medications, for example, bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol), turns stool black because of the bismuth in the medication.

Fever, increasing severity of abdominal pain, and persistent symptoms should not be ignored and contacting your primary care provider should be considered if these symptoms are present.

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Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu) - Effective Treatments

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