How to Treat Shigella

Shigella bacteria infects the intestinal tract and causes diarrhea, which is often bloody. Symptoms range from loose stools to the beginning stages of dysentery. Dehydration is the most concern in the majority of shigella infections. In most cases proper treatment limits the duration and symptoms of the infection. Read on to learn how to treat shigella.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Oral rehydration solution

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Instructions

• 1

  Visit your doctor and relate all of your symptoms. Be as specific as you can about timelines and the extreme nature of your symptoms.

• 2

  Follow your doctor's directions with regards to all medication prescriptions. Doctors often prescribe antibiotics based upon the strain of shigella infection you have. Take the medication for as long as prescribed, not just until you feel better. The bacteria sometimes lingers after the symptoms disappear.

• 3

  Drink more fluids than normal to maintain proper hydration. Children often benefit from an oral rehydration solution such as Pedialyte.

• 4

  Eat as you normally as you can unless your doctor recommends otherwise.

• 5

  Continue to breastfeed infected children who are normally breastfed.