Filipinos are very fond of eating because through the sharing of meals, we strengthen our bond of friendships and solidarity. But beware! When you experience sudden abdominal pain after eating a meal, chances are you might be suffering from viral gastroenteritis.Also called stomach flu, it is a highly contagious infection of the intestines, marked by watery passing of stool (diarrhea), abdominal pain/cramps, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, chills, loss of appetite, mild fever and muscle aches. Symptoms usually appear within 4 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus and will last for 1 to 2 days. Symptoms of the illness, however, could last as long as 10 days. Consult your doctor immediately once you noticed the symptoms.
According to Michael J. Grumpha, M.D., a gastroenterology and hepatology fellow, viral gastroenteritis is in the top five causes of deaths worldwide. Severe cases are seen in the elderly, infant, young children and people with weak immune systems. Likewise, it is noted that it is the second most common illness and cause of absenteeism in schools and companies.
Stomach flu is caused by many different viruses, including rotavirus, Norwalk virus, adenovirus, calcivirus, and astrovirus. It is acquired by swallowing one of the virus, entering the stomach and making the lining of the small intestines swell and produce watery diarrhea. The body fluids of infected people contain the virus, sometimes even before the symptoms begin.
The virus can be spread by direct contact with an infected person, for example, kissing, shaking hands, or the sharing of food, beverages or eating utensils. The primary goal in managing viral gastroenteritis is to eliminate or at least reduce the symptoms and prevent the infected person from dehydration. The symptoms of dehydration are: excessive thirst, dry mouth, little or no urine output or the passing of dark-yellow colored urine, decreased tears, severe weakness or lethargy, and dizziness or lightheadedness.
The following are steps that may help relieve the symptoms of viral gastroenteritis:
* Rest the stomach and intestine by avoiding eating solid food;
* Drink clear liquids only;
* If vomiting is a problem, sip small amounts of clear liquids or chew or suck on ice chips;
* Gradually reintroduce the intake of solid food, starting with bland, easy-to-digest food like toast, apples, bananas, and rice;
* Avoid the intake of dairy products and caffeine and alcohol until recovery is complete;
* Get plenty of rest;
* Do not take aspirin, ibuprofen or other NSAIDs without consulting a doctor.
* Avoid contact with the body fluids, including saliva, of an infected person; and
* Do not share food with someone who is suffering from stomach flu.
The single, most helpful and effective way of preventing the spread of stomach flu is frequent and thorough hand washing.
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