WellHealthOrganic.com: Key Signs of Gastroenteritis

WellHealthOrganic.com: Key Signs of Gastroenteritis, also referred to as stomach flu, is an inflammation of both the stomach and the intestines due to a number of causes including viruses, bacteria or parasites. It can cause such embarrassing feelings and make one feel uncomfortable thus affecting his/her activities. To ensure that appropriate management is given to the patient, it is very important to identify the common manifestations of gastroenteritis. As the information is gathered from WellHealthOrganic, this article gives information regarding the same. At http://www.mayoclinic.com/ , the basic signs of gastroenteritis are discussed, and information about its treatment and prevention is given.

Understanding Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and/or the intestines, and is often referred to as the ‘stomach flu’. It may occur from infections due to viruses as in the case of norovirus and rotavirus, bacteria for example Salmonella and E.coli or parasites. There are many ways in which gastroenteritis can be contracted including consumption of contaminated food or water, lack of cleanliness, and coming into contact with other people who are infected with the virus.

Key Signs of Gastroenteritis

It is therefore important to know some of the early signs of gastroenteritis so as to ensure early treatment is taken. According to WellHealthOrganic. com, the following symptoms are commonly associated with this condition:com, the following symptoms are commonly associated with this condition:

1. Nausea and Vomiting

Vomiting is one of the characteristic signs of gastroenteritis; other signs include vomiting. Stomach inflammation causes this feeling of discomfort and vomiting may occur from time to time. This can lead to such complications as dehydration as well as lack of body fluids and electrolytes.

2. Diarrhea

Vomiting and diarrhoea are two of the most common symptoms of gastroenteritis. It may manifest as diarrhoea, which is loose, more frequent, or watery bowel movements. It can also manifest as the patient experiencing bloating and abdominal pain and/or discomfort. Diarrhea may be classified as mild or severe or as acute or chronic and is a common cause of dehydration.

3. Abdominal Pain and Cramps

Vomiting and diarrhea are noted to be present in abdominal discomfort and pain in those with gastroenteritis. The condition that involves the inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract is associated with discomfort and pain, with the pain occurring in episodes or consistently. The main symptom is a sharp or aching pain in the stomach which may also be associated with swelling.

4. Fever

Fever can be present with gastroenteritis especially if it is a viral or bacterial cause. The body gives a response to the infection in the form of a rise in body temperature which is usually low to moderately high. Weakness is another common symptom of a fever, and it will feel as if you are even more fatigued than usual.

5. Headache and Muscle Aches

Stomach upsets can also cause headaches and muscle aches as well as gastroenteritis. These symptoms are usually due to dehydration, fever and the general effect of the infection on the body. Pain is often associated with headaches and muscular discomfort may cause general pain.

6. Fatigue and Weakness

General body weakness and tiredness are experienced due to the immune response that the body mounts against the infection. The symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, and low fluid intake make one feel weak and in some cases, they may feel unwell. This is a suggestion that one should avoid much physical activity and ensure that he or she takes a lot of water.

Managing Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis requires the management of some symptoms, taking a lot of water and avoiding foods or drinks that can worsen the condition. As suggested by WellHealthOrganic below. com, here are some key management strategies:com, here are some key management strategies:

1. Stay Hydrated

Prolonged diarrhea and vomiting common in gastroenteritis lead to dehydration that is a major complication. It is recommended that clear fluids including water, oral rehydration solutions or broths should be taken. It is also important to avoid taking drinks which contain caffeine or alcohol as they contribute to the worsening of the situation.

2. Rest and Recuperation

They need to rest as gastroenteritis is a condition that requires one to be off their normal activities especially productive ones. The immune system works on the body and helps to fight the infection when the body is allowed to rest. Do not exert oneself physically and get enough rest in order to allow the body to heal itself.

3. Gradual Reintroduction of Food

When vomiting stops, slowly add foods onto the diet that are less likely to cause stomach upset for instance crackers, toast or bananas. This includes such foods as; oily foods, spicy foods and foods that contain high quantities of dairy products since they can cause irritation of the stomach and thus prolong the symptoms.

4. Seek Medical Attention

Gastroenteritis may be severe in certain circumstances or if the symptoms persist for a few days, consult a doctor. Anyone with high fever that lasts more than one week, vomiting or diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, signs of dehydrations, or blood in stool should seek medical attention.

Preventing Gastroenteritis

Measures to prevent gastroenteritis include ensuring that personal hygiene is maintained, and that one does not come into contact with the causative agents. WellHealthOrganic. com highlights the following preventive measures:com highlights the following preventive measures:

1. Wash Hands Regularly

Washing one’s hands with soap and water upon using the washroom or before preparing food and eating cuts the risk of developing gastroenteritis. Hand sanitizers are to be used where the use of soap and water is not possible.

2. Do Not Take Contaminated Foods and Water

Make certain that food is thoroughly cooked and that water to be consumed is clean and fit for human consumption. Do not take raw or half cooked foods and be very careful with foods that may have been prepared in poor hygiene conditions.

3. Maintain Good Personal Hygiene

Do not be in contact with those who have gastroenteritis and ensure that you wash your hands regularly. Clean objects and surfaces that can be accessed by the pathogens.

4. Vaccination

There are occasions when vaccines are available for certain types of gastroenteritis, for instance rotavirus. Parents should consult their doctor to find out if vaccination should be administered to them or their children.

Conclusion

Therefore, there is a need to identify the leading symptoms of gastroenteritis such as nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, headache, fatigue, among others. There are ways to manage the symptoms and avoid getting infected, by observing certain measures and handling the illness properly. To get more information and consultation about gastroenteritis, visit WellHealthOrganic. com is useful in finding information that can help in achieving a higher level of health.

Having more knowledge and making efforts to prevent it, people will be able to prevent gastroenteritis and keep their health in a better condition.