Treatment of E. coli infection depends on the type and severity of the infection:
- For most E. coli infections causing diarrhea or gastrointestinal symptoms, there is no specific cure. Treatment focuses on supportive care:
- Rest
- Drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration (water, clear broths, oral rehydration solutions)
- Avoiding anti-diarrheal medications, as they can slow toxin clearance and worsen symptoms
- Eating a light, easily digestible diet as symptoms improve
- Antibiotics are generally not recommended for E. coli infections causing diarrhea, especially those caused by Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), because antibiotics can increase the risk of serious complications like hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS)
- For other types of E. coli infections such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), meningitis, or sepsis, antibiotics are commonly used. The choice of antibiotics depends on the infection site and local resistance patterns. Common antibiotics for E. coli UTIs include fosfomycin, nitrofurantoin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, quinolones, penicillins, cephalosporins, and aminoglycosides
- Severe cases with complications like kidney failure (HUS) may require hospitalization with treatments including intravenous fluids, blood transfusions, and dialysis
- Pain relievers such as acetaminophen may be used to reduce fever and discomfort. Antispasmodics can be prescribed to relieve cramps but only under medical advice
- Natural remedies such as cranberry juice may help prevent or complement treatment for UTIs by reducing bacterial adherence to the urinary tract
In summary, mild E. coli infections are managed with hydration and rest, avoiding antibiotics and anti-diarrheal drugs, while more serious infections or UTIs require targeted antibiotic therapy and sometimes hospitalization
