We talk about stomach flu (gastroenteritis) when we have inflammation of the inner lining of the stomach, and the small and large intestine.
It can be an acute process (short duration, usually less than 4 weeks) or chronic (long duration, or more than 4 weeks).
Causes
There are many causes, although there are some very common ones.
* Viral infection
* Bacterial infection
* Parasitic infection
* Medicines
* Toxins
* Hypersensitivity to certain foods
* Dysbiosis
In our environment the most common is viral. Especially when we have frequent weather changes.
Symptoms
The onset is usually sudden and the symptoms will depend on the strength of the infection and the person's resistance. And they can last an average of 2 weeks (sometimes more depending on the person's defenses)
* loss of appetite
* nausea
* vomiting
Not everyone has all the symptoms or the same intensity.
* audible bowel sounds (borborygmus)
* cramps
*visible blood and mucus in stool
* abdominal distension (swelling)
* abdominal pain
* fever
* general discomfort
* myalgias (muscular pain)
* fatigue
* nasal congestion
* runny nose (runny nose)
* Itchy throat
* cough
* weightloss
Diagnosis
It is essentially clinical, on some occasions, especially when we find resistance to treatment, blood and stool tests are indicated. In very compromising cases we will need an internal examination with a sigmoidoscope.
Complications
* dehydration
* Electrolyte imbalance
* Hypotension (low blood pressure)
* Bradycardia (slow heartbeat)
* Hypovolemic shock (low amount of fluids in the body)
* Renal failure
Treatment
* Fluids and rehydration solutions
* Drugs according to clinical findings
* Probiotics according to medical evaluation
Whatever its cause or course, it is important to remember that it is not always self-regulating. A large percentage of people with Gastroenteritis require medical treatment in order to recover their natural function.
Do you have Gastroenteritis? contact us and we will help you fight it!
Dr. Kyo-Sai Young - Integral Health!
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