Microorganism infections in the digestive system can lead to hosts of health problems and it may interfere with your daily life schedule. If you’re ill due to some digestive infection, it can be possibly because of a bacterial infection.
Bacteria are single celled microorganisms that are prevalent in almost all environment of the world. While certain bacteria are used for health promotion, there are numerous others that can cause severe infections. Bacterial infection is especially health threatening when it affects the digestive system.
What is a Bacterial Infection?
Between anus and stomach, lies the most crucial digestive tract of the human body, the intestine. Intestine are divided into types; small intestine and the large intestine. Absorption of essential amino acids and glucose is carried out in the small intestine. Large intestine, on the other hand, absorbs water from indigestible food in digestive tract and helps in the passage of waste products. There are hundreds of bacteria species that reside in our digestive tracts. Some of these bacteria help in food digestion however, certain others may cause severe infections. Intestinal parasites, yeast, fungus etc., are some other reasons for intestinal infection symptoms.
Symptoms
Our intestinal tracts play a major role in supplementing the entire process of digestion. Since all organs associated to our digestive system play a small but significant role in facilitating the complete process of digestion, infections can cause several health concerns. When it particularly comes down to intestinal tract infection, following medical conditions can arise as a result of it.
Irritable Bowl Syndrome
Infection in the gastrointestinal tracts because of bacteria is cited to be one of the reasons for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This condition is accompanied by abdominal pain and stomach discomfort.
Loss of Appetite
Generally, there can be various reasons for loss of appetite however, due to intestinal infection, often the normal eating routine is hindered and hence there may be a drop in food intake. If you don’t feel like consuming food, then you should go for a check up to your physician.
Poor Immune System
Bacterial infection draws nutrients in the body hence, it leads to poor immune system.
Abdominal Pain
In case you experience abdominal pain and it has been for quite a long period of time, then probably you should rush to your GP and get yourself diagnosed. Besides abdominal pain, you might be experiencing sudden intestinal pain after eating that may be the due to some intestinal infection.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea that leads to dehydration can be caused due to several types of bacteria like Campylobacter, Salmonella, Shigella, and Escherichia coli (E. coli).
Causes
The most common reason for an infection in the intestinal tract is food infection. In case, you’re feeding on some unhygienic food then eventually, the food may get infected by bacteria. In fact, it’s a truth that poorly cooked and unhygienic food can increase the risk of such infections. Hence, you’ve got to ensure that you’re away from contaminated foods and drinks. Several cases of infections from the bacteria are due to food poisoning in the digestive system.
Treatment
For treating bacterial infection in intestines, you have to ensure that you stop eating junk food or food outside your home. It is better to be on a liquid diet for a day or two. Over the counter medications can be taken after consultation with medical experts. Medications are available that reduce the effect of bacterial infection in our intestinal tracts. Ginger tea and peppermint tea are two effective remedies to provide relief to the intestines.
In case, you’re experiencing moderate to severe symptoms, visiting a medical expert and getting diagnosed with bacterial infection is essential to eliminate threats of any further health problems. It can also lead to various stomach problems and hence, you’ve to take rest as well as make dietary changes for a period of few weeks.
