Oh my... I've been feeling sick since last night, and I've been running to the toilet all the time. Not only that, I'm also vomiting, and I'm really upset. Has this ever happened to you? We often call this a 'stomach ache' or 'food poisoning'. Medically, we call this condition gastroenteritis. Some people also call it 'stomach flu'. But this has nothing to do with the 'flu' virus that causes the common cold. So, let's find out exactly what causes stomach aches today.
Simply put, what is gastroenteritis?
It's very simple. Gastroenteritis is an infection of your stomach and intestines that causes swelling and inflammation. Just like our throats get red and sore when we have an infection, the same thing happens inside our stomachs. The main cause of this is a viral or bacterial infection. It's when our immune system fights off these germs that we develop symptoms. Sometimes, parasites, fungi, or certain chemicals can also cause this condition.
What are the main symptoms of this?
Gastroenteritis symptoms usually come on suddenly, without any warning . You may have experienced these symptoms too.
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Vomiting and diarrhea | This is the main and most uncomfortable symptom. There is constant vomiting and loose stools (diarrhea). |
| Stomach ache | It may feel like your stomach hurts when you touch it, or like your stomach is cramping. |
| Other features | Loss of appetite, body aches, fatigue, a slight fever, and a feeling of being cold may also occur. |
The thing we need to be most concerned about in this situation is dehydration . When vomiting and diarrhea continue, a large amount of water and salts in the body are lost.
The symptoms of dehydration are:
- Dry mouth and lips
- Dry skin
- Excessive thirst
- Feeling dizzy
- Decreased urination
If you have symptoms like these, you should see a doctor immediately.
Is it very dangerous for young children to get pregnant?
Yes, we need to be very careful when small children and babies get gastroenteritis. Their bodies lose water much more quickly than adults, so they are more likely to become dehydrated.
These are the signs of dehydration in a young child:
- The "crevice" (soft spot on the scalp) on the baby's head is sunken
- Sunken vision
- Very dry mouth and lips
- Tears don't come out when you cry.
- No urination or very little urination for several hours
- Lethargy, a lack of energy in the baby's body
- Frequent crying for no reason, irritability
If your baby has any of these symptoms, take him to a doctor immediately. If your child has this disease, avoid sending him to school or daycare until the symptoms are completely gone. This is very contagious.
In our country, young children are given a vaccine to protect them from Rotavirus, one of the main viruses that causes this. You can ask your family doctor or local health officer about this.
What are the main reasons for this?
As we said before, the most common cause of this is a virus.
1. Viruses
These are easily spread through dirty hands, contaminated food or water, or from an infected person.
- Norovirus: This is a very common virus that spreads very quickly. Symptoms appear within 12-48 hours of being infected. People can be sick for 1-3 days and still spread the virus to others for up to two weeks after they recover.
- Rotavirus: This is very common among young children. It can cause severe dehydration. Symptoms may last for about 5-7 days.
- Adenovirus and Astrovirus: These are other types of viruses that cause gastroenteritis.
2. Bacteria
Although not as common as viruses, this condition is also caused by some types of bacteria.
- Salmonella and Campylobacter: Can be transmitted through things like undercooked chicken and eggs.
- E. coli (Escherichia coli): Transmitted through contaminated water and food.
- Shigella: Can spread quickly among people in places like kindergartens.
3. Other reasons
Very rarely, gastroenteritis can also be caused by parasites (e.g. Giardia), dirty swimming pools, certain medications (e.g. antibiotics, NSAIDs), highly acidic foods, and toxins found in seafood.
How is it treated and what can be done at home?
Most of the time, this condition will resolve on its own within a few days. It does not require any special treatment. The most important thing is to take care of yourself and not get dehydrated.
1. Get plenty of rest: Resting your body is very important for speedy recovery.
2. Drink as much fluids as possible: If you are vomiting, drink slowly, not in large amounts at once. Sucking on an ice cube is also a good way.
- Rehydration Solution (ORS)
- Orange water
- Light soups
- Rice porridge (with a little salt)
3. Eat light meals: Once your stomach pain has subsided a bit, start by eating something light and easy to digest.
- Bread, crackers
- Banana
- Rice
- Boiled chicken
4. Avoid these things: It is best to avoid milk and dairy products, caffeine (tea, coffee), and alcohol until you are completely healed. Sugary drinks (soda, sweetened drinks) should also be avoided as they can increase diarrhea.
Never give medicine to stop diarrhea or vomiting without medical advice, especially for young children. Sometimes these medicines can make the infection stay in the body longer and make the condition worse.
When should you see a doctor immediately?
Although this condition is usually not dangerous, if you have the following symptoms , see a doctor immediately or go to the hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) .
| Emergencies - Watch out for these signs! | |
|---|---|
| Regarding children |
|
| Regarding adults | |
How to protect yourself from this situation?
Prevention is the best way to prevent these diseases. By following these simple habits, you can go a long way towards avoiding them.
- Wash your hands often: This is the most important thing. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before eating, before preparing food, and after using the bathroom.
- Food safety: Wash vegetables and fruits thoroughly before eating. Cook meat, fish, and eggs thoroughly. Store cooked food properly.
- Cleanliness: Always keep kitchen surfaces, countertops, etc. clean.
- Stay away from infected people: If someone in your family has the disease, separate the dishes, cups, and towels they use.
Take-Home Message
- Gastroenteritis is a condition that is usually caused by a virus and resolves on its own within a few days.
- The main risk is dehydration , especially for young children, infants, and the elderly.
- The mainstays of treatment are rest and drinking plenty of fluids (juice, orange juice, porridge) .
- Washing your hands thoroughly with soap is the best way to protect yourself from this disease.
- If you have severe symptoms or signs of dehydration, do not stay home and seek medical advice immediately .
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