Intestinal infections can be treated by identifying the causative agents, which can be bacteria, viruses, fungi, or intestinal parasites. Learn more about its causes, symptoms, and treatment, which are discussed in this article.
An infection of the intestine can be caused by various pathogens, like bacteria, viruses, fungi or yeasts, and intestinal parasites and worms. Sometimes, an infection caused by these pathogens can become quite severe, especially if the condition is left untreated. However, proper treatment can prevent the complications associated with this condition.
Causes and Symptoms of Intestinal Infection
As mentioned already, this infection can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and intestinal parasites. A bacterial infection of the intestinal tract is commonly caused by Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter jejuni, Staphylococcus, Escherichia coli, Clostridium, Yersinia, and Vibrio cholerae.
Apart from these, parasites such as giardia, cryptosporidium, pinworm, roundworm, tapeworm, flukes, and amoeba can cause intestinal infections. Even yeasts that normally reside in the gastrointestinal tract of almost all healthy individuals, can cause an infection at times. Factors that weaken the immune system and destroy the population of beneficial intestinal bacteria can cause intestinal yeast infections.
Many of these pathogens that cause intestinal infections can be contracted due to poor personal hygiene, such as eating food with unwashed hands. Contaminated food and water can also cause infections. Sometimes, we can contract such infectious agents by consuming undercooked food or food that has not been prepared properly.
An infection of the intestine can produce several painful symptoms, of which the most common symptoms are:
- Abdominal pain and intestinal cramps
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Teeth grinding
- Bloody stool
- Sleep disorders and headaches
Intestinal Infection Cure
The treatment of this condition basically depends on the causative organism. Usually, mild infections of the intestine resolve within a few days. But a severe infection can require proper medications. A bacterial infection of the intestine is usually treated with antibiotics. For parasitic infections, anti-parasitic medications can be required. A viral infection, on the other hand, goes away within a couple of days without treatment. For intestinal yeast infection treatment, antifungal medications can be required at times, especially if the infection is severe in nature.
Along with medications, it is important to drink enough fluid or water to accelerate the process of healing. An infection of the intestine is usually accompanied by symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting. If the fluid lost from the body due to diarrhea or vomiting is not replenished, then it can cause dehydration. Dehydration caused by this condition can sometimes necessitate the intravenous administration of fluid.
People suffering from intestinal infections should avoid foods that are difficult to digest, until the infection clears up. To speed up the process of recovery, they can try a few home remedies, such as banana, buttermilk, lemon juice, and peppermint tea. Ginger is another effective home remedy. You can either chew ginger or take ginger tea to cure this infection. In the meantime, avoid foods, like onion and cauliflower, along with beverages like coffee.
If the symptoms are not improving with all possible care, then get the condition properly evaluated as soon as possible. For effective treatment, it is better to seek immediate medical attention. To prevent this infection in the future, be sure to maintain personal hygiene, and eat only properly cooked food. Raw food and vegetables should be washed properly before consuming, in order to reduce the chances of contracting infectious agents.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only, and should not be treated as a substitute for professional medical advice.
