There are people who have trouble digesting and easily get enteritis because of food. Stomach cramps and diarrhea are so severe that he visits the emergency room in the middle of the night. In case of such a situation, it is also possible to carry a stomach medicine. If it is not a serious situation like this, it is often passed lightly as a self-diagnosis by taking only household medicine. However, acute gastroenteritis is a symptom caused by a viral or bacterial infection and is a disease that can be transmitted to others. Symptoms may not be caused by food intake alone, but may be caused by toxic substances or medications. In general, it resolves on its own, but if it is serious, the condition can deteriorate rapidly with Sang-moon Bae Sang-moon, an internal medicine specialist at Ulsan Jeil Hospital, to learn more.
◇It is difficult to determine the specific cause
Acute gastroenteritis occurs mainly when infected with viruses such as norovirus, rotavirus, and adenovirus, or bacteria such as Escherichia coli, salmonella, and shigella. Eating or drinking contaminated food or water can also cause gastroenteritis. It can also occur if food is not stored properly or if a sick person handles the food.
Certain parasites can also cause acute gastroenteritis. Certain toxins, such as shellfish toxin or botulinum toxin, also cause acute gastroenteritis. In addition, certain medications, such as antibiotics, can cause gastroenteritis by disrupting the normal balance of bacteria in the gut. Additionally, certain medical conditions such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and celiac disease can cause acute gastroenteritis.
Depending on these causes, when acute gastroenteritis occurs, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, dehydration, and anorexia may generally appear. In some cases, headaches and muscle aches may also occur.
Bae Sang-moon, an internal medicine specialist at Ulsan Jeil Hospital, said, “It is difficult to identify a specific cause for acute gastroenteritis, and in some cases, multiple factors may be involved. For this reason, it is important to note that symptoms can vary from mild to severe, and symptoms can also occur with a time lag.”
◇ Prevent dehydration
Treatment of acute gastroenteritis depends on the cause and severity of the condition, but generally includes treatment to prevent dehydration. Continue to drink water, clear broth, frozen water, ice pops, sports drinks, etc. At this time, it is good to avoid drinks containing caffeine, alcohol, and large amounts of sugar.
However, in cases of severe dehydration, treatment with an electrolyte replacement solution such as Pedialite may be a good idea.
Once a person is hydrated, it is important to gradually return to a normal diet. It is best to eat soft, easy-to-digest foods such as rice, applesauce, and toast. In some cases, antidiarrheal medications such as loperamide may help control symptoms. Antibiotics may be prescribed if acute gastroenteritis is caused by a bacterial infection. In some cases, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) may help relieve stomach pain.
“It is important to note that some people with acute gastroenteritis do not require treatment and can recover on their own,” said Dr. Bae. It can lead to more serious complications such as, so treatment by a specialist doctor is required,” he emphasized.
◇Personal hygiene must be observed
In order to avoid getting acute gastroenteritis, it is important to thoroughly maintain personal hygiene above all else. Regular hand washing for at least 20 seconds with soap and water is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of acute gastroenteritis.
Also, if someone you know has acute gastroenteritis, you should avoid close contact to reduce the risk of getting sick yourself. Of course, you need to be careful when preparing and eating food. It is better not to eat food that has been left at room temperature for a long time. Fruits and vegetables should be washed thoroughly before eating. It is so natural to drink safe water. It’s a good idea to wash dishes, towels, and other personal items regularly and avoid sharing them with others.
Certain vaccines, such as the rotavirus vaccine, help prevent acute gastroenteritis caused by certain viruses. If you are traveling to an area with a high risk of acute gastroenteritis, you should take steps to reduce your risk, such as drinking bottled water and avoiding raw or undercooked food.
“It is important to be familiar with the symptoms of acute gastroenteritis and to seek medical attention if symptoms are severe, persistent or accompanied by a fever,” said Dr. Bae. It can reduce and minimize the effects of acute gastroenteritis.”
Reporter Jeon Sang-heon [email protected]
