Gastroenteritis, also known as infectious diarrhea, isinflammation of the gastrointestinal tract that involves thestomach and small intestine.
Cause
Viruses (particularly rotavirus) and the bacteria Escherichia coli and Campylobacter species are the primary causes of gastroenteritis. There are, however, many other infectious agents that can cause this syndrome. Non-infectious causes are seen on occasion, but they are less likely than a viral or bacterial cause. Risk of infection is higher in children due to their lack of immunity and relatively poor hygiene.
Symptoms
The main symptoms of gastroenteritis are:
sudden, watery diarrhoea
feeling sick
vomiting, which can be projectile
a mild fever
Some people also have other symptoms, such as a loss of appetite, an upset stomach, aching limbs and headaches.
The symptoms usually appear up to a day after becoming infected. They typically last less than a week, but can sometimes last longer.
Gastroenteritis is typically diagnosed clinically, based on a person’s signs and symptoms. Determining the exact cause is usually not needed as it does not alter management of the condition. However, stool cultures should be performed in those with blood in the stool, those who might have been exposed to food poisoning, and those who have recently traveled to the developing world.
HOMOEOPATHIC APPROACH
Gastroenteritis is a constitutional disease that finds its local expression at the level of the digestive system. Being a constitutional disorder, it calls for constitutional approach towards treatment. Homeopathic approach towards the management of gastroenteritis involves the evaluation of the complaint in details while taking into account individual factors such as one’s personal and family history while planning a long-term treatment. Since the treatment targets the root cause, Homeopathy offers long-term cure instead of temporary relief. It treats at a deeper level of immunity and enhances the healing capacity of the body. Homeopathy can also help to prevent complications of gastroenteritis.