gastroenteritis

41 YEAR OLD MALE, DOES NOT DRINK OR SMOKE, CURRENTLY NOT ON ANY MEDS WAS DIAGNOSED THIS WEEK (AT THE ER) WITH GASTROENTERITIS (HE HAD VOMITING, SOME DIAREA (diarrhea) AND DIZZINESS) AND ALSO DEHYDRATION. THE ER DOCTOR GAVE HIM MEDS FOR VOMITING AND 2 BAGS OF SALINE FLUIDS--HE WAS DISCHARGED AFTER URINATING. THE ER DOCTOR SAID THAT HE SHOULD BE BETTER IN A COUPLE OF DAYS---HE HAS BEEN DRINKING PEDIALITE AND WATER AND HE STARTING TO EAT SMALL MEALS. BUT OUR BIGGEST PROBLEM IS THAT HE IS STILL DIZZY. HOW LONG WILL THE DIZZINESS LAST? AND WHAT ELSE CAN WE DO OR DRINK OR EAT TO GET  BACK IN BALANCE (EQILIBRIUM)? IS GATORADE ANOTHER CHOSE? TODAY IS A WEEK THAT HE HAS BEEN SICK, HOW MUCH LONGER? I THINK THAT HE PROBABLY HAD SEVERE DEHYDRATION--IF SO ABOUT HOW LONG BEFOR THE DIZZINESS ENDS?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Any type of viral illness (i.e. viral gastroenteritis) can lead to dizziness.  At times, this can last several weeks.  

Dehydration also can lead to dizziness.  Fluids such as Gatorade and Pedialyte are appropriate rehydration solutions.  

However, I would see your personal physician to ensure there are no more serious causes for the dizziness.  Imaging, including a CT scan, can be considered if the dizziness continues.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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