Risk of food poisoning and stomach infection
Consuming outside food or water during the rainy season increases the risk of food poisoning and stomach infection. Many people solve this problem by taking medicine and recover within a few days. But, some people do not get relief from this. The initial vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain may go away, but cramps, gas, and constipation may persist for several months or years afterward. It is wrong to consider this as a simple stomach problem.
What is post-infection irritable bowel syndrome?
If you are also facing such problems, then this is not a normal problem, but could be 'Post-Infection Irritable Bowel Syndrome' (Post-Infection IBS). It may bother you even years after the infection is gone.
How does it happen?
According to health experts, 1 in every 10 people affected by severe stomach infection has to face this disease. When the stomach is attacked by bacteria, the body tries to expel it through diarrhea and vomiting. In most cases, the stomach gets relief after the infection is gone, but in some people, the nervous and immune systems of the stomach remain affected for a long time. This condition is similar to an alcoholic hangover, where even after the effect of alcohol wears off, its adverse effects on the body remain.
Who is most at risk?
- People who have stomach infection for a long time are at greater risk of this problem. Apart from this, this problem is seen more in women than in men.
- Research shows that infections caused by parasites are most at risk for this disease, followed by infections caused by bacteria and viruses.
What are the symptoms?
The main symptoms of this disease include persistent abdominal pain, cramps, gas, flatulence, frequent diarrhea or constipation. There is no special test to identify it, the doctor checks to make sure that there is no old bacteria in the stomach.
Treatment and prevention measures
This problem is treated according to the symptoms of the patient. Medicines are taken as per doctor's advice to stop diarrhea, relieve constipation and reduce stomach cramps. For some time, one has to avoid such foods which increase gas in the stomach or diarrhea. Fiber rich diet is also beneficial.
There is no need to be afraid of this disease. The good news is that patients suffering from post-infection IBS often recover on their own. However, complete recovery may take a few months to a few years. In some cases this problem may persist for a long time, but it can be easily controlled by timely identification and prevention.