How to treat digestive infection, gas and loose stools?

Question

Hello doctor,

I had eaten something yesterday and a few hours later, I was sick. Can you tell me if it is food poisoning? Symptoms were throwing up, and diarrhea. I had bloating and extreme gas pain. What to do?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through your query and understood your concern.

The infection you are suffering from is called gastroenteritis or stomach flu. In gastroenteritis, the mucosa of the intestine is severely inflamed causing symptoms like loose stools, indigestion, and vomiting. This may be virus, bacteria, and parasite-induced. The best way to deal with it is to eat clean food and wash hands with an antiseptic soap prior to each meal.

I suggest you do the following tests.

1. Ultrasound abdomen to rule out inflammation in the abdomen.

2. Stool test for bacterial or protozoal infection.

3. Fecal Calprotectin levels to rule out intestinal inflammation.

Most likely, stomach flu is viral and self-limiting and settles down within seven to ten days. However, antibiotic therapy can be given in case it is bacterial or protozoal.

I suggest you follow the instructions mentioned below.

1. Start taking Fybogel (bulk-producing laxative). It increases the bulk of the stool and improves digestion.

2. Start taking a good probiotic daily. It will gradually improve digestion. They are rich in good bacteria that assist digestion.

3. Take lots of bananas, apples, and peaches.

4. Drink lots of fibrous juices and keep yourself hydrated.

5. Take light and easily digestible food.

6. Antibiotic therapy could be given as per the reports of investigation.

7. Dicyclomine (anticholinergic) can be taken for spasmodic pain.

Kindly consult a specialist, talk with them, and take medicines with their consent.

I hope this has helped you.

Thanks and regards.