Rotavirus Treatment

The most common cause of moderate to severe diarrhea, especially in kids, is rotavirus. Rotavirus is passed from person to person most often when children put their germ-laden hands in their mouths. Hand-washing is one of the most effective forms of prevention for rotavirus. The Mayo Clinic reports that by the age of 3, a majority of toddlers have already experienced rotavirus at least once. Though doctors can confirm a rotavirus diagnosis through fecal testing, this is not necessary in most cases. Except for rare cases, the virus runs it course quickly without the need for major medical intervention. Self-care measures can be practiced at home as a way to treat rotavirus.

Watchful Waiting

• Many people who have rotavirus do not require treatment under the supervision of a doctor and can recover at home. The term "watchful waiting" can be used for this type of "non-treatment" treatment. Resting as much as possible and pushing fluids while the bouts of diarrhea are active is recommended. Rotavirus usually runs its course in a matter of days. If diarrhea lasts for more than a week or if vomiting continues for more than a couple of days, it is time to see a doctor for a more aggressive form of treatment. Watchful waiting is in order for fevers that are characteristic of rotavirus. Temperatures that spike 102 degrees F in children and 104 degrees F in adults warrant professional medical treatment.

Oral Rehydration

• Rotavirus patients can become dehydrated very quickly through both diarrhea and vomiting. Oral rehydration therapy, or ORT, is a method of treatment to re-hydrate the person and re-calibrating the electrolytes and other minerals needed to keep the body healthy. Those having mild rotavirus symptoms can most likely keep themselves hydrated with water. People with more severe symptoms should drink beverages specifically designed to restore the body's chemical balance. Oral rehydration liquids are sold in the children's aisle of most supermarkets. Some people may be tempted to rehydrate with sports drinks, but these beverages often contain sugar, which can irritate the digestive system even more.

Intravenous Rehydration

• Hospitalization may be required if a person with rotavirus cannot keep down food, water or oral rehydration liquids. Moderate to severe dehydration will be treated through intravenous rehydration. Affluent countries such as the United States have plenty of facilities to administer IV fluids as part of a rotavirus treatment, but others in developing areas are not as lucky. Dehydration and kidney failure can lead to death in areas of the world that do not have access to IV rehydration treatment methods.

Bland Diet

• Once on the mend, people suffering from rotavirus symptoms should start back on food slowly so as not to upset an already-irritated digestive tract. Bland foods such as plain pasta, white rice, bananas, dry toast and crackers can help build up strength that is lost during the peak of the virus. Eating small amounts and waiting to see how the snack is digested can help gauge the progress of the virus. Offer small children non-sugary drinks and snacks frequently in an effort to pave the road to recovery.

Special Consideration

• Babies who have rotavirus are especially fragile due to their small size and immature digestive systems. Your pediatrician will let you know whether you should give your baby either full-strength or watered-down oral rehydration liquids. Your baby should continue to nurse or drink regular-strength formula as much as possible, but in small doses to avoid overwhelming their stomachs. Parents who keep their babies on a feeding schedule are encouraged to veer from the schedule and feed on demand, whenever the baby is hungry. Even if the sick baby takes in just a fraction of what he usually drinks, it may be enough to prevent dehydration.