Persistent diarrhea is sometimes treated with other medications such as narcotic-type drugs, which harden your bowel movements, or antispasmodic drugs that slow down bowel activity. Any such treatment is usually stopped as soon as the bowels begin to function normally. Analysis of bowel movements may be necessary, if diarrhea is prolonged, to make sure your gastroenteritis is not due to a severe intestinal infection such as amebic dysentery. If your gastroenteritis is caused by a virus, it probably cannot be prevented. If food poisoning is the cause of the symptoms, it is important in the future to avoid foods that have been incorrectly prepared or have not been refrigerated.
Bacteria often grow in poultry products, foods made with eggs, or cream products.
Do not leave foods like potato salad, chicken salad, cream puffs, or chicken unrefrigerated for a long time, especially in warmer weather. Gastroenteritis caused by emotional upsets may be preventable to some degree by making a conscious effort to reduce stress in your life. Balancing the demands of work and school with opportunities for leisure time with family and friends may modify the effects stress has on your well-being. Regular physical exercise allows an outlet for tension and may help build up your immune system. Vomiting and diarrhea caused by overindulgence of alcohol is largely preventable by exerting self-control and limiting the number of drinks you consume.