Summarize the following:
E. coli predominantly affects the gastrointestinal tracts in adults. It causes either watery diarrhea or, in more severe cases, bloody diarrhea that can lead to other complications such as kidney failure. E. coli infections occur most frequently while traveling to areas of the world with poorer hygiene than we have here in North America. It is transmitted via fecal contamination of food, water, etc. Symptoms of an E. coli infection include:  Abdominal pain Nausea and/or vomiting Diarrhea Fever Abdominal cramps It is important to understand that E. coli infections are not able to be "cured" (and the bacteria cannot be "killed") with typical medical drugs such as antibiotics or even antidiarrheals. Rather, the treatment offered by medical professionals is "supportive," meaning it consists of rest, fluids, and medications for symptom management such as pain and/or nausea.  This is counter-intuitive for many people, who often expect medical drugs as a "cure" for illnesses such as an E. coli infection. Antidiarrheal medications are not helpful because they delay the passage of the infection and a worsening of symptoms. Your best bet, counter-intuitive as it may seem, is to allow the diarrhea to continue to get rid of the infection as soon as possible.  Antibiotics are also not recommended — they have been shown to worsen the illness, because when the bacteria are killed they release more toxins, resulting in greater damage. Because antibiotics are not advised in E. coli infections, it will be up to your immune system to kill off the infection. Fortunately, your immune system is very capable of doing this, given adequate time and proper support. Rest, follow your doctor's instructions, and allow your immune system to do its job! Talk to your doctor about the supportive measures you can take to get through the infection. It will be important to stay hydrated as you will be losing lots of fluids while you are sick.
Recognize the symptoms. Do not take anit-diarrheals and antibiotics. Kill the bacteria naturally with your immune system.