Saturday, January 19, 2008

Gastroenteritis - Upset Stomach - Stomach Flu

Gastroenteritis is an upset of the stomach. Gastroenteritis causes nausea and vomiting. You may also have diarrhea or a fever. It is sometimes called”stomach flu” but it is not the flu. Germs like viruses and bacteria can cause it. You can catch it from someone else who has it, or you can get it from food poisoning. Food poisoning can happen if you eat foods that contain harmful germs. germs can get into food while the food is growing, during processing, or when it sis prepared. you may also become ill after eating meat or eggs that weren’t cooked enough or by eating other unsafe foods or water. You will probably begin to feel better in 1or 2 days, but you might feel bad for a week. In the meantime, get plenty of rest and make sure you do not become dehydrated. Dehydration occurs when your body loses too much fluid. This can happen when you throw up a lot or have diarrhea. How can you prevent from Gastroenteritis? he best thing you can do to keep from catching Gastroenteritis from someone else is to make a habit of washing your hands often. This is especially important after you use the bathroom, after you change a baby’s diaper and before you eat or prepare food. Don’t share personal items like forks and spoons, toothbrushes, tongue cleaner, and towels. Try not to be around others who have stomach flu. Keep your hands away from from nose, eyes, and mouth. What should you do at home? * Drink plenty of fluids. Choose water and other caffeine- free clear fluids until you feel better. If you have kidney, heart or liver disease and have to limit fluids, talk to your doctor before you increase how much fluid you drink. * Drink fluids slowly, in frequent, small amounts. Drinking too fast can cause vomiting. * Electrolytes should also be replaced, especially if vomiting or diarrhea last longer than 24 hrs. Electrolytes are minerals in your blood that keep many systems in your body working smoothly. If you have long period and diarrhea, you can lose minerals. sports drinks, which contain a mix of salt, sugar and minerals may replace electrolytes. Please visit url 24khealth.com

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