Hello, I have been having stomach pain and diarrhea for the past 3 days. I am waiting for my covid result, but what can I do to reduce the pain?

Question

Marie-Laurence Gauthier · Accepted Answer

Good evening! Unfortunately, I don't have much to suggest to relieve your symptoms. First, while waiting for the results of your COVID test : As you probably know, the coronavirus is transmitted from person to person through contact with droplets that are projected into the air when a sick person talks, coughs or sneezes. It is also possible that the virus is transmitted through stool (this is still under investigation). So, be sure to follow basic hygiene measures (cough into your elbow, wash your hands often (for at least 20 seconds) and avoid sharing personal items). Next, avoid using public transportation or having visitors at home. Don't go to school, work or any public place At home, stay in one room alone as much as possible (making sure to close the door). Eat alone and sleep alone. If this is not possible, wear a mask (or keep a distance of 1 to 2 meters between you and the other occupants of the house if no mask is available). If you are able, use a dedicated bathroom for yourself. If this is not possible, the toilet area should be disinfected with soapy water or hygiene products after each use. You should hear back about your result 24 to 48 hours after you have been tested. Note that if you are under quarantine, you should remain quarantined despite a negative test. Next, as for your current symptoms: It's important to keep yourself hydrated: when you have diarrhea, you lose a lot of fluid and electrolytes. Oral rehydration solutions (such as Gastrolyte, Pedialyte, Hydralyte ) are available in pharmacies to ensure proper hydration. Since they are well balanced in electrolytes, they are the best solution to avoid dehydration or to rehydrate. Symptoms of dehydration are thirst, decreased urine output, dark urine and in more severe cases confusion, dizziness. If you have symptoms of severe dehydration, go to the emergency room and mention that you are waiting for a COVID test. Imodium is available over the counter and can reduce diarrhea. However, its use is reserved as a last resort because completely suppressing diarrhea may prevent the body from getting rid of the causative pathogen in the case of an infection. Imodium can cause dizziness and should not be used while driving. The usual dosage is 2 tablets immediately, then 1 tablet after each loose stool to a maximum of 8 tablets per day. If you are taking any medications or have any allergies, contact your pharmacist before taking this medication. Again, while waiting for your COVID result or during your quarantine period if applicable, request a delivery from the pharmacy and prioritize telephone consultations A warm towel (for example, one that is put in the dryer), and that is applied to the stomach can sometimes relieve stomach aches. Make sure it is not too hot to avoid burning yourself! If you have a fever, blood or mucus in your stool or if the stomach pain is too intense, ask for a medical consultation quickly (mentioning that you are waiting for a COVID test). I hope this is helpful to you, Marie-Laurence Gauthier, pharmacist.