Intestinal infection or enterocolitis is inflammation that can occur in the small intestine or large intestine. Diarrhea and vomiting are common symptoms experienced by sufferers of this condition. A person who is in hospital, often uses public swimming pools, or has a weakened immune system is at high risk of contracting organisms that cause intestinal infections.
Causes of Intestinal Infection
Intestinal infections can be caused by different organisms, such as:
- Bacteria. The example is E. coli, Salmonella, and Campylobacter. These bacteria can be spread through food, such as eggs or meat.
- Parasite. The example is Entamoeba histolytica and Balantidium coli. Transmission of the parasite generally occurs through contaminated water, such as when swimming.
- Virus. The example is Cytomegalovirus. This virus attacks people who have weak immune systems, such as people with HIV/AIDS or organ transplant recipients who are taking immunosuppressive drugs.
A person has a high risk of contracting organisms that cause intestinal infections if:
- Not keeping clean.
- Have a weak immune system.
- Is being treated in hospital.
- Often use public facilities, such as swimming pools.
Symptom Intestinal infections
There are several symptoms that are felt by people with intestinal infections, whether the infection occurs in the large or small intestine. Among others are:
- Abdominal pain or cramps.
- Diarrhea.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Weight loss.
- Fever.
In mild conditions, the symptoms that appear can subside on their own within a few days. See a doctor immediately if:
- Symptoms last more than 3 or 4 days.
- Experiencing non-stop vomiting.
- Not urinating for more than 12 hours.
- There is blood in the stool.
Intestinal Infection Diagnosis
The diagnosis process begins with a thorough examination of the patient's symptoms and health condition. The doctor will also ask questions regarding the risk factors you have.
After that, the diagnosis process is continued with blood or stool tests. Blood tests are usually used to detect elevated levels of white blood cells, which is the body's natural response to infection. Meanwhile, stool examination is used to detect the type of organism that causes infection.
In addition to blood and stool tests, doctors can also use endoscopic methods to confirm the condition of the intestines. The doctor will insert a special instrument (endoscope) equipped with a camera, light, and cutting tools. The camera and light contained in the endoscope are tasked with producing images of the organs to be observed. The cutter is used to take samples from the infection area, which will then be further examined in the laboratory.
Intestinal Infection Treatment
Treatment of intestinal infections must be tailored to the underlying cause. Mild intestinal infections will usually clear up on their own within a few days. However, it would be better if the patient continued to check with the doctor to confirm the condition. Infections that do not fully recover have the potential to recur at a later date.
Methods used to treat intestinal infections include:
- Drink more. By drinking more, dehydration can be prevented and overcome. The doctor will determine how much water is good to consume in a day, according to the needs and conditions of the patient.
- Arrangepatternandfood menu. Avoid consuming foods or drinks high in sugar, fat, and fiber, such as packaged milk. By avoiding these foods or drinks, diarrhea symptoms can subside. It would be better if you have a further consultation with your doctor about eating patterns and menus.
- Consumingrehydration fluid. The doctor can also give you rehydration fluids or ORS. ORS is a special liquid that contains sugar and salt, which serves to replace lost fluids in the body.
- Administration of antibiotics. Antibiotics are usually given to treat intestinal infections caused by bacteria.
- Operation. In severe cases, the doctor may suggest surgery to remove the problematic part of the intestine. This method is used when other treatments are not effective in treating intestinal infections.
Intestinal Infection Prevention
Intestinal infections are preventable conditions, such as:
- Maintain cleanliness.
- Wash your hands after every activity and before eating.
- Do not consume drinking water whose cleanliness is doubtful.
- Use clean utensils for cooking.
- Cook the food until it is fully cooked.
- Store food in a clean place.
- Avoid alcohol consumption.
- Do not smoke.
Intestinal Infection Complications
If not treated properly, intestinal infections can cause complications such as:
- Irritable bowel syndrome.
- arthritis (arthritis).
- Hemolytic uremic syndrome.
- Guillain-Barre Syndrome.