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Warning-sign checks

Bacterial gastroenteritis: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    After suspected STEC infection, reduced urination, easy bruising, unusual paleness, or severe tiredness requires prompt assessment.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up may not be necessary when symptoms are mild, hydration is adequate, and the illness steadily improves.

    Continue drinking fluids and return to normal food and activity gradually.

    Arrange follow-up if diarrhea persists, returns after improving, or is accompanied by weight loss, continuing fever, blood in the stool, or ongoing abdominal pain.

    Follow-up is also important if a stool test identifies a bacterium that may require treatment, public health reporting, or confirmation that the infection has cleared.

    Some roles and infections require additional precautions or follow-up testing even after symptoms have stopped.

The article also says

Contact a clinician if urination decreases, weakness or dizziness worsens, or vomiting prevents hydration.

A healthcare professional or public health department can advise when it is safe to return to food handling, healthcare, childcare, school, or group living.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Bacterial gastroenteritis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.