How should norovirus infection be managed with Crohn’s disease?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

I want some information. Kindly answer the following few questions:

1. Since when have you been taking medicines for Crohn's disease?
2. Are your symptoms well-controlled?

Norovirus infection is a self-limiting infection, lasting for 4 to 5 days, which needs treatment for symptoms only. But, norovirus can have severe symptoms if you have Crohn's disease or any other form of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Generally, immunosuppressants are given for Crohn's disease. However, these immunosuppressants can cause a flare-up of any gastrointestinal tract (GIT) infection. Hence, you must consult with your GI specialist and drop this dose of immunosuppressant - Injection Humira (Adalimumab) (tumor necrosis factor blocker) and Azathioprine (immunosuppressant).

Dehydration is the main concern for norovirus infection. Dehydration could be serious if water intake is not maintained.

Signs of severe dehydration include:

1. Lethargy or less activity than usual.

2. Pale and sunken eyes.

3. Cold hands or feet.

4. Faster breathing and heart rate.

5. Irritability, drowsiness, or confusion.

6. Dark yellow pee or less frequent urination.

7. Reduced skin elasticity.

If any of these signs are seen, please go to the emergency room (ER).

Symptoms must subside within four to five days. Due to Crohn's disease, you might have a prolonged recovery of up to 10 to 12 days. If you notice any intermittent diarrhea after the complete remission of current norovirus symptoms, then it could be post-infection IBS. If you notice such episodes, kindly consult your GI specialist for further management.

I advise you to do the following:

1. Oral rehydration solution (ORS), increased fluid intake, and avoiding sugary drinks.

2. Antiemetics like the tablet Ondem for vomiting.

3. Imodium (antidiarrheal) for diarrhea.

4. Antispasmodics like Cyclopam (Dicyclomine and Paracetamol).

5. Eat easy-to-digest food items like rice, soups, toast, and fruits, which do not flare up your Crohn's disease symptoms.

6. Yogurt can help maintain normal gut flora if well tolerated by your gut.

7. Multivitamin supplements after consulting a gastrointestinal (GI) specialist.

Norovirus infection can seriously affect the patient of Crohn's disease. But the norovirus infection generally do not have long term effects on the digestive system. Symptoms may be severe but recover fully in majority of patients.

The probable cause may be norovirus infection.

Kindly consult a specialist doctor, talk with them, and take proper guidance.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.