From the Guidelines
To treat acute gastroenteritis caused by spicy food consumption, focus on rest, hydration, and a bland diet until symptoms resolve, and consider taking anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide (Imodium) at 2mg after each loose stool (maximum 8mg per day) as recommended by the 2017 Infectious Diseases Society of America clinical practice guidelines 1. The treatment approach should prioritize hydration to prevent dehydration, with clear fluids like water, diluted sports drinks, or clear broths being suitable options.
- Key considerations include:
- Drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
- Eating small portions of bland foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, toast, and crackers (the BRAT diet)
- Avoiding spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and dairy products until the digestive system recovers
- Managing symptoms with over-the-counter medications like antacids for heartburn and pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) at 500-1000mg every 6 hours as needed According to the guidelines, antimotility drugs like loperamide may be given to immunocompetent adults with acute watery diarrhea 1, but it's essential to follow the recommended dosage and avoid use in children under 18 years of age or in cases of suspected or proven toxic megacolon. It's also crucial to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen, including severe abdominal pain, bloody stools, high fever, signs of dehydration, or if symptoms persist beyond 3-4 days, as these could indicate a more severe condition requiring medical intervention 1.
From the Research
Treatment for Acute Gastroenteritis
The treatment for acute gastroenteritis caused by spicy food consumption typically involves oral rehydration therapy (ORT) to prevent or reverse dehydration.
- The primary goal of ORT is to replace lost fluids and electrolytes, and several studies have investigated the efficacy of different oral rehydration solutions (ORS) 2, 3.
- According to a study published in 2006, Pedialyte, Gatorade, and a New Oral Rehydration Solution (N-ORS) were found to be effective in correcting dehydration and improving bowel symptoms in adults with viral gastroenteritis 2.
- Another study published in 2004 discussed the use of ORS solutions in children and adults, highlighting their role in preventing and treating dehydration during acute gastroenteritis 3.
- In addition to ORT, antiemetics such as ondansetron may be used to facilitate oral rehydration in patients with vomiting, as shown in a study published in 2016 4 and a review published in 2020 5.
- The use of probiotics, on the other hand, has been found to have limited benefit in treating acute gastroenteritis, and their routine use is not recommended 5.
- A study published in 1993 outlined the principles of oral rehydration therapy, including patient selection, fluid choice, and implementation 6.
Oral Rehydration Solutions
The choice of ORS solution may depend on various factors, including the patient's age, severity of dehydration, and personal preference.
- A study published in 2006 compared the efficacy and safety of Pedialyte, Gatorade, and N-ORS in adults with viral gastroenteritis, finding that all three solutions were effective and safe 2.
- Another study published in 2004 discussed the development of newer ORS formulations with reduced osmolarity, which may offer added benefits such as promoting intestinal healing 3.
Antiemetics and Probiotics
Antiemetics such as ondansetron may be used to facilitate oral rehydration in patients with vomiting.
- A study published in 2016 found that a single oral dose of ondansetron reduced the need for intravenous rehydration and vomiting in children with acute gastroenteritis 4.
- A review published in 2020 discussed the benefits and limitations of ondansetron use in acute gastroenteritis, highlighting the importance of optimizing its real-life effectiveness 5.
- Probiotics, on the other hand, have been found to have limited benefit in treating acute gastroenteritis, and their routine use is not recommended 5.