Is it normal for a patient with gastroenteritis to not have a bowel movement for 3 days?

Defecation refers to bowel movement. In general, it may be normal for patients with gastroenteritis not to have a bowel movement for three days. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Gastroenteritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the mucous membranes of the stomach and intestines, which may be caused by bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections, as well as antibiotic overuse. Patients may experience discomforts such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, headache, fatigue, and malaise. When suffering from gastroenteritis, the gastrointestinal tract is severely stimulated, which may accelerate intestinal motility and lead to diarrhea. If the intestinal contents have been completely expelled during episodes of diarrhea, it may take about three days to form new stool. Therefore, it is generally considered normal for patients with gastroenteritis not to defecate for three days.

If diagnosed with gastroenteritis, patients can, under medical guidance, take medications such as ciprofloxacin hydrochloride capsules and bismuth potassium citrate tablets, while also ensuring adequate rest.