What are the main causes of stomach ache, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue. How can these symptoms be treated effectively. What complications may arise from these conditions. When should you seek medical attention for these symptoms.

Gastroenteritis: The Common Culprit Behind Digestive Distress

Gastroenteritis, often referred to as stomach flu, is a prevalent intestinal infection that frequently causes a combination of stomach ache, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue. This condition typically results from viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections.

Key symptoms of gastroenteritis include:

• Stomach pain or cramping
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Low-grade fever
• Headache
• Fatigue

Viral gastroenteritis, caused primarily by norovirus and rotavirus, is the second most common illness in the United States. It often spreads through contaminated food or water. Bacterial gastroenteritis can be caused by various pathogens, including:

• Salmonella
• Shigella
• Escherichia coli (E. coli)
• Clostridioides difficile
• Campylobacter

How can gastroenteritis be treated? Most cases of viral gastroenteritis resolve on their own within a few days. The primary focus of treatment is preventing dehydration by maintaining fluid intake. In cases of bacterial gastroenteritis, antibiotics may be prescribed if necessary. Probiotics and over-the-counter medications can help alleviate symptoms and promote recovery.

Diverticulitis: When Intestinal Pouches Become Inflamed

Diverticulitis is a condition that occurs when small pouches (diverticula) in the colon wall become infected and inflamed. This condition typically causes pain in the lower left abdomen, along with other symptoms such as:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Bloody stools
• Frequent or painful urination
• Fever

The risk of developing diverticulitis increases with age. Current research suggests that a low-fiber diet may be a significant contributing factor to the development of diverticulosis, which can lead to diverticulitis.

How is diverticulitis treated? Treatment for diverticulitis depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may be managed with rest, dietary changes, and antibiotics. More severe cases may require hospitalization, intravenous antibiotics, and in some instances, surgery.

Celiac Disease: When Gluten Triggers Digestive Distress

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the consumption of gluten triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine. This condition can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:

• Stomach cramps
• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Bloating
• Malnutrition
• Weight loss
• Headaches
• Weakness and fatigue
• Joint pain
• Easy bruising

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) estimates that approximately 2 million people in the United States have celiac disease, though many may be undiagnosed.

How is celiac disease managed? The primary treatment for celiac disease is adhering to a strict gluten-free diet. This involves eliminating all sources of gluten, including wheat, barley, and rye, from one’s diet. With proper dietary management, most people with celiac disease can lead healthy lives and prevent further intestinal damage.

COVID-19: A Global Pandemic with Diverse Symptoms

COVID-19, caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, primarily affects the respiratory system but can also cause gastrointestinal symptoms. People with COVID-19 may experience a wide range of symptoms, including:

• Cough and shortness of breath
• Loss of taste or smell
• Congestion or runny nose
• Sore throat
• Headache and fever
• Chills and fatigue
• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Muscle or body aches

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus.

How is COVID-19 treated? Treatment for COVID-19 varies depending on the severity of symptoms. Mild cases can often be managed at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications for symptom relief. More severe cases may require hospitalization and advanced medical interventions. Vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure against severe COVID-19.

Medication Side Effects: When Treatment Causes Discomfort

Many medications can cause side effects that include stomach ache, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue. Common side effects of various medications may include:

• Upset stomach
• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness
• Insomnia
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting

How can medication side effects be managed? If you experience persistent or severe side effects from a medication, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider. They may adjust the dosage, switch to an alternative medication, or provide additional treatments to manage side effects. Never stop taking prescribed medications without consulting your doctor first.

Endometriosis: When Uterine Tissue Grows Outside the Uterus

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

• Stomach cramps
• Lower back and pelvic pain
• Heavy periods
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Blood in urine or stools
• Bloating and fatigue
• Pain during intercourse
• Spotting between periods

How is endometriosis treated? Treatment options for endometriosis include pain management with medications, hormonal therapies, and in some cases, surgery. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and the individual’s desire for future fertility. Lifestyle changes and alternative therapies may also help manage symptoms.

Bowel Obstruction: When Intestinal Blockage Occurs

A bowel obstruction involves the partial or complete blockage of the small or large intestine. This condition can cause a range of symptoms, including:

• Stomach cramping and pain
• Inability to pass gas
• Abdominal swelling
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Severe constipation or diarrhea

How is bowel obstruction treated? Treatment for bowel obstruction depends on the cause and severity of the blockage. In some cases, the obstruction may resolve with conservative measures such as bowel rest, intravenous fluids, and nasogastric tube decompression. More severe cases may require surgical intervention to remove the obstruction and repair any damaged sections of the intestine.

Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the Pancreas

Pancreatitis is the medical term for acute inflammation of the pancreas. This condition typically begins with a sudden onset of severe stomach pain that radiates to the back. Other symptoms may include:

• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fever and sweating
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

How is pancreatitis treated? Treatment for pancreatitis often requires hospitalization and may include fasting to rest the pancreas, intravenous fluids, pain management, and treatment of the underlying cause. In severe cases, intensive care and surgical intervention may be necessary.

Appendicitis: Inflammation of the Appendix

Appendicitis is the infection and inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch of tissue located in the lower right section of the abdomen. Symptoms of appendicitis may include:

• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain, particularly in the lower right quadrant
• Fatigue
• Frequent urination
• Fever (in about 40% of cases)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea

How is appendicitis treated? Appendicitis typically requires prompt surgical removal of the appendix (appendectomy). In some cases, antibiotics may be used as an initial treatment, but surgery is often necessary to prevent complications such as perforation and peritonitis.

Iron Poisoning: When Too Much Iron Becomes Harmful

Iron poisoning occurs when excessive amounts of iron build up in the body, often due to overconsumption of iron supplements. Symptoms of iron poisoning may include:

• Abdominal pain
• Irritability
• Drowsiness
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting, sometimes with blood
• Rapid breathing
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness

How is iron poisoning treated? Treatment for iron poisoning typically involves supportive care, including intravenous fluids and medications to manage symptoms. In severe cases, chelation therapy may be used to remove excess iron from the body. Prevention is key, and iron supplements should only be taken under medical supervision.

Anaphylaxis: A Severe Allergic Reaction

Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur rapidly after exposure to an allergen. Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include:

• Skin rash or hives
• Diarrhea
• Itchy throat
• Stomach pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the throat or tongue
• Rapid pulse
• Dizziness or fainting

How is anaphylaxis treated? Anaphylaxis requires immediate emergency medical attention. The primary treatment is an injection of epinephrine (adrenaline) to counteract the allergic response. Additional treatments may include antihistamines, corticosteroids, and supportive care. Individuals with known severe allergies should carry an epinephrine auto-injector (such as an EpiPen) at all times.

When experiencing persistent or severe symptoms of stomach ache, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. These symptoms can be indicative of various conditions, ranging from mild to severe. A healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan based on the specific cause and individual circumstances.

By understanding the potential causes and treatments for these common symptoms, individuals can be better prepared to recognize when medical intervention is necessary and take appropriate steps to manage their health effectively.

Causes of stomach pain, diarrhea, and nausea

Vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and stomach pain commonly occur together and may be caused by many illnesses. Some are relatively harmless, while others require prompt treatment.

Below, the article explains 11 causes of vomiting and diarrhea with stomach pain. It also lists the treatments and complications that may occur.

Gastroenteritis, also known as stomach flu, is a very common intestinal infection. It typically occurs due to a virus, bacteria, or parasite.

The symptoms can include:

• stomach pain or cramping
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• a low-grade fever
• a headache
• fatigue

Viral gastroenteritis is the second most common illness in the United States and often stems from consuming food or water containing viral particles. The most common causes are norovirus and rotavirus.

Bacteria that can cause bacterial gastroenteritis include:

• salmonella
• shigella
• escherichia coli (E-coli)
• clostridioides difficile
• campylobacter

Learn more about food poisoning and gastroenteritis.

Diverticulosis involves pouches forming in the wall of the colon. Diverticulitis is the medical name for the infection and inflammation of these pouches.

Diverticulitis typically causes pain in the lower left part of the abdomen. Other symptoms may include:

• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• bloody bowel movements
• frequent or painful urination
• a fever

The likelihood of developing diverticulosis increases with age. Researchers currently believe that the main cause is having a diet with low amounts of fiber.

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the ingestion of gluten causes the immune system to attack its own cells. This can cause permanent damage to the small intestine.

Symptoms of celiac disease may include:

• stomach cramps
• diarrhea
• nausea
• vomiting
• bloating
• malnutrition
• weight loss
• headaches
• weakness
• fatigue
• joint pain
• bruising easily

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases estimates (NIDDK) that about 2 million people in the U. S. have celiac disease, though many may be unaware of it.

COVID-19 is an illness that predominately affects the respiratory system. The cause is the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2.

People with COVID-19 may experience a wide range of symptoms, including:

• a cough
• shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• new loss of taste or smell
• congestion or a runny nose
• a sore throat
• a headache
• a fever
• chills
• fatigue
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• muscle or body aches

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms may appear 2–14 days after exposure to the virus.

For more advice on COVID-19 prevention and treatment, visit our coronavirus hub.

Was this helpful?

Side effects or adverse events are unwanted reactions to a medication.

Some common side effects include:

• an upset stomach
• dry mouth
• drowsiness
• insomnia
• diarrhea
• vomiting

Endometriosis involves cells similar to those of the uterine lining growing elsewhere in the body.

Symptoms of endometriosis may include:

• stomach cramps
• lower back and pelvic pain
• heavy periods
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• constipation
• blood in urine or stools
• bloating
• fatigue
• pain during intercourse
• spotting between periods

A bowel obstruction involves the partial or full blockage of the small or large intestine. The blocked part swells with food, fluids, and gas, triggering symptoms such as:

• stomach cramping
• stomach pain
• an inability to pass gas
• abdominal swelling
• appetite loss
• nausea
• vomiting
• severe constipation or diarrhea

Learn about the many causes of bowel obstruction.

Pancreatitis is the medical term for acute inflammation of the pancreas. The condition usually begins with a sudden onset of severe stomach pain that radiates to the back.

The pain usually worsens when the person:

• takes deep breaths
• coughs
• moves around

Additional symptoms may include:

• a loss of appetite
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• a fever
• sweating
• jaundice, which is the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes

Appendicitis is infection and inflammation of the appendix.

The appendix is a small pouch of tissue that sits inside the colon. It is located in the lower right section of the abdomen.

In addition to diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, symptoms of appendicitis may include:

• loss of appetite
• abdominal pain
• fatigue
• frequent urination

In about 40% of cases, a person will also experience a fever.

Iron poisoning occurs when too much iron builds up in the body. This may result from the person taking too many supplements that contain iron.

Symptoms of iron poisoning may include:

• abdominal pain
• irritability
• drowsiness
• diarrhea
• vomiting, sometimes with blood
• rapid breathing
• seizures
• a loss of consciousness

Anaphylaxis is the medical term for a severe allergic reaction. The trigger may be a medication or food, for example.

Anaphylaxis happens quickly and can be fatal. Symptoms may include:

• a skin rash or hives
• diarrhea
• an itchy throat
• stomach pain
• nausea
• vomiting
• difficulty swallowing
• shortness of breath
• chest pain
• dizziness
• fainting
• a loss of consciousness

Persistent diarrhea and vomiting can lead to complications, such as dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

The complications depend on the cause of the vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.

For example, certain digestive conditions can cause intestinal malabsorption, which prevents the person from getting enough nutrients from food. This can lead to nutritional deficiencies and weight loss.

Untreated pancreatitis, appendicitis, and bowel obstructions can cause serious and potentially life threatening complications such as sepsis, an infection that spreads to the bloodstream and attacks other organs.

The right treatment for vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain depends on the cause of these symptoms.

Many cases of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are nothing to be alarmed by and resolve in a few days. In the meantime, it is important to get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids to prevent and treat dehydration.

If symptoms are severe or persistent, dietary changes, adjustments to current medications, or medical treatments may be necessary. These treatments may include:

• medications for intestinal infections
• pain relief medications
• intravenous, or IV, fluids
• hospitalization or surgery for serious illnesses, such as appendicitis or bowel obstructions

Anyone who experiences sudden, severe stomach pain with or without vomiting and diarrhea may want to seek emergency care. In particular, the following groups may be more at risk for serious complications:

• children
• pregnant people
• older adults

In addition, anyone who experiences vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain, plus one or more of the following symptoms should receive professional care as soon as possible:

• vomiting that is that lasts more than 24 hours
• dehydration symptoms or inability to take in fluids
• bloody vomit
• diarrhea that lasts for more than 2 days
• stomach pain that awakens the person from sleep
• any symptoms that began after an injury or surgery to the stomach
• sudden swelling or bruising of the belly
• symptoms of dehydration, such as dizziness, dry mouth, and lethargy
• jaundice
• pain in the chest, arm, neck, or jaw
• difficulty breathing or swallowing

The following are answers to additional questions about diarrhea and stomach pain.

When should I go to the ER for stomach pain and diarrhea?

Diarrhea can be a symptom of gastritis. However, it does not immediately indicate you need emergency help as long as you are able to stay hydrated. You should see a doctor immediately or go to the hospital if you have had gastritis symptoms for longer than a week, are vomiting blood or black sputum, have blood in your stool, have pain that is getting worse, or you develop a fever.

Are diarrhea and stomach cramps symptoms of Covid 19?

While not common symptoms of Covid-19, digestive symptoms can occur with an infection of the virus. They are usually associated with a less severe form of illness but can also occur with a more severe illness. Covid-19 can be detected in stool.

Why do I have a sudden stomach ache and diarrhea?

Abdominal pain and diarrhea can have many causes. They include infection, food poisoning, overeating, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and more.

Vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain are a common symptom combination. They often result from gastroenteritis and tend to go away in a few days without the need for professional care.

However, see a doctor if symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other worrying symptoms. They can stem from more serious issues that require prompt treatment.

Most causes of vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain are treatable as long as a doctor diagnoses and treat them in time.

Causes of stomach pain, diarrhea, and nausea

Vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and stomach pain commonly occur together and may be caused by many illnesses. Some are relatively harmless, while others require prompt treatment.

Below, the article explains 11 causes of vomiting and diarrhea with stomach pain. It also lists the treatments and complications that may occur.

Gastroenteritis, also known as stomach flu, is a very common intestinal infection. It typically occurs due to a virus, bacteria, or parasite.

The symptoms can include:

• stomach pain or cramping
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• a low-grade fever
• a headache
• fatigue

Viral gastroenteritis is the second most common illness in the United States and often stems from consuming food or water containing viral particles. The most common causes are norovirus and rotavirus.

Bacteria that can cause bacterial gastroenteritis include:

• salmonella
• shigella
• escherichia coli (E-coli)
• clostridioides difficile
• campylobacter

Learn more about food poisoning and gastroenteritis.

Diverticulosis involves pouches forming in the wall of the colon. Diverticulitis is the medical name for the infection and inflammation of these pouches.

Diverticulitis typically causes pain in the lower left part of the abdomen. Other symptoms may include:

• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• bloody bowel movements
• frequent or painful urination
• a fever

The likelihood of developing diverticulosis increases with age. Researchers currently believe that the main cause is having a diet with low amounts of fiber.

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the ingestion of gluten causes the immune system to attack its own cells. This can cause permanent damage to the small intestine.

Symptoms of celiac disease may include:

• stomach cramps
• diarrhea
• nausea
• vomiting
• bloating
• malnutrition
• weight loss
• headaches
• weakness
• fatigue
• joint pain
• bruising easily

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases estimates (NIDDK) that about 2 million people in the U.S. have celiac disease, though many may be unaware of it.

COVID-19 is an illness that predominately affects the respiratory system. The cause is the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2.

People with COVID-19 may experience a wide range of symptoms, including:

• a cough
• shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• new loss of taste or smell
• congestion or a runny nose
• a sore throat
• a headache
• a fever
• chills
• fatigue
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• muscle or body aches

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms may appear 2–14 days after exposure to the virus.

For more advice on COVID-19 prevention and treatment, visit our coronavirus hub.

Was this helpful?

Side effects or adverse events are unwanted reactions to a medication.

Some common side effects include:

• an upset stomach
• dry mouth
• drowsiness
• insomnia
• diarrhea
• vomiting

Endometriosis involves cells similar to those of the uterine lining growing elsewhere in the body.

Symptoms of endometriosis may include:

• stomach cramps
• lower back and pelvic pain
• heavy periods
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• constipation
• blood in urine or stools
• bloating
• fatigue
• pain during intercourse
• spotting between periods

A bowel obstruction involves the partial or full blockage of the small or large intestine. The blocked part swells with food, fluids, and gas, triggering symptoms such as:

• stomach cramping
• stomach pain
• an inability to pass gas
• abdominal swelling
• appetite loss
• nausea
• vomiting
• severe constipation or diarrhea

Learn about the many causes of bowel obstruction.

Pancreatitis is the medical term for acute inflammation of the pancreas. The condition usually begins with a sudden onset of severe stomach pain that radiates to the back.

The pain usually worsens when the person:

• takes deep breaths
• coughs
• moves around

Additional symptoms may include:

• a loss of appetite
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• a fever
• sweating
• jaundice, which is the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes

Appendicitis is infection and inflammation of the appendix.

The appendix is a small pouch of tissue that sits inside the colon. It is located in the lower right section of the abdomen.

In addition to diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, symptoms of appendicitis may include:

• loss of appetite
• abdominal pain
• fatigue
• frequent urination

In about 40% of cases, a person will also experience a fever.

Iron poisoning occurs when too much iron builds up in the body. This may result from the person taking too many supplements that contain iron.

Symptoms of iron poisoning may include:

• abdominal pain
• irritability
• drowsiness
• diarrhea
• vomiting, sometimes with blood
• rapid breathing
• seizures
• a loss of consciousness

Anaphylaxis is the medical term for a severe allergic reaction. The trigger may be a medication or food, for example.

Anaphylaxis happens quickly and can be fatal. Symptoms may include:

• a skin rash or hives
• diarrhea
• an itchy throat
• stomach pain
• nausea
• vomiting
• difficulty swallowing
• shortness of breath
• chest pain
• dizziness
• fainting
• a loss of consciousness

Persistent diarrhea and vomiting can lead to complications, such as dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

The complications depend on the cause of the vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.

For example, certain digestive conditions can cause intestinal malabsorption, which prevents the person from getting enough nutrients from food. This can lead to nutritional deficiencies and weight loss.

Untreated pancreatitis, appendicitis, and bowel obstructions can cause serious and potentially life threatening complications such as sepsis, an infection that spreads to the bloodstream and attacks other organs.

The right treatment for vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain depends on the cause of these symptoms.

Many cases of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are nothing to be alarmed by and resolve in a few days. In the meantime, it is important to get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids to prevent and treat dehydration.

If symptoms are severe or persistent, dietary changes, adjustments to current medications, or medical treatments may be necessary. These treatments may include:

• medications for intestinal infections
• pain relief medications
• intravenous, or IV, fluids
• hospitalization or surgery for serious illnesses, such as appendicitis or bowel obstructions

Anyone who experiences sudden, severe stomach pain with or without vomiting and diarrhea may want to seek emergency care. In particular, the following groups may be more at risk for serious complications:

• children
• pregnant people
• older adults

In addition, anyone who experiences vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain, plus one or more of the following symptoms should receive professional care as soon as possible:

• vomiting that is that lasts more than 24 hours
• dehydration symptoms or inability to take in fluids
• bloody vomit
• diarrhea that lasts for more than 2 days
• stomach pain that awakens the person from sleep
• any symptoms that began after an injury or surgery to the stomach
• sudden swelling or bruising of the belly
• symptoms of dehydration, such as dizziness, dry mouth, and lethargy
• jaundice
• pain in the chest, arm, neck, or jaw
• difficulty breathing or swallowing

The following are answers to additional questions about diarrhea and stomach pain.

When should I go to the ER for stomach pain and diarrhea?

Diarrhea can be a symptom of gastritis. However, it does not immediately indicate you need emergency help as long as you are able to stay hydrated. You should see a doctor immediately or go to the hospital if you have had gastritis symptoms for longer than a week, are vomiting blood or black sputum, have blood in your stool, have pain that is getting worse, or you develop a fever.

Are diarrhea and stomach cramps symptoms of Covid 19?

While not common symptoms of Covid-19, digestive symptoms can occur with an infection of the virus. They are usually associated with a less severe form of illness but can also occur with a more severe illness. Covid-19 can be detected in stool.

Why do I have a sudden stomach ache and diarrhea?

Abdominal pain and diarrhea can have many causes. They include infection, food poisoning, overeating, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and more.

Vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain are a common symptom combination. They often result from gastroenteritis and tend to go away in a few days without the need for professional care.

However, see a doctor if symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other worrying symptoms. They can stem from more serious issues that require prompt treatment.

Most causes of vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain are treatable as long as a doctor diagnoses and treat them in time.

If this is not poisoning, what is? 7 Reasons Why Your Stomach Hurts and Feels Nauseous

• Health

In the fall, if nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and malaise appear, we attribute them to poisoning, “stomach” flu or rotavirus. But often this is not the reason at all.

October 29, 2022

Source:

iStockphoto

If at night or in the morning you suddenly feel sick, have diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, we often think that we ate something wrong. If this is excluded, then the thought appears that they have caught an unpleasant virus, which is commonly called “intestinal flu”. Often this infection in one way or another affects the entire family, although the severity of the condition varies.

But it is not always right to attribute all problems to an insidious virus and wait a couple of days for the body to cope with the infection. Sometimes these symptoms – abdominal cramps, nausea with vomiting and diarrhea – can be the first signs of other, more dangerous and serious illnesses. What it could be, Alexandra Yakovleva, a gastroenterologist, hepatologist at the SM-Clinic in St. Petersburg, listed Dr. Peter.

Not only rotavirus – there are a lot of “intestinal flus”

Nausea and abdominal cramps are clear signs of acute viral intestinal infections: rotavirus, enterovirus and others. Such diseases are also known under the informal name “intestinal flu”. However, in addition to the most famous, there are less common, but no less relevant infections. Most often, the body copes with them for 3-5 days, but you need to monitor your condition: if it gets worse, you should call a doctor at home.

However, other infections, such as bacterial or fungal infections, as well as non-infectious digestive problems or certain diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, can also indicate similar symptoms. The most common problems include those that we list below.

Read also

Banal overeating

Abdominal cramps and nausea, and sometimes vomiting with malaise, are a sign that your stomach simply cannot cope with the amount of food eaten. Therefore, try to reduce portions, observe moderation in food. Colic in the intestines can also be added to the discomfort of overeating.

Usually such troubles with digestion occur if among the amount of food eaten there were gas-producing foods: legumes, milk, some types of fruits and vegetables, sweet lemonades.

Exacerbation of chronic gastritis

A surge in the activity of this disease is not always caused by a viral agent. Often, gastritis makes itself felt against the background of severe stress, if you have experienced a shock, overtired or nervous, forgot to eat on time or were on a diet.

Exacerbation also provokes poor nutrition: a violation of the diet prescribed by the doctor, an abundance of spicy and salty foods in the diet, smoking, alcohol abuse.

See also

Biliary congestion

Biliary dyskinesia is a functional disorder. This is a violation of the outflow of bile from the liver through the bile ducts to the gallbladder, and then from it through the common cystic outflow into the duodenum. The disease can develop independently, or may be accompanied by other diseases: gastritis, peptic ulcer, cholecystitis, pancreatitis and others.

In addition to nausea, symptoms of biliary dyskinesia include sharp pain in the right hypochondrium, bloating, bitter taste in the mouth, and lack of appetite.

Inflammation of the pancreas

One of the most common gastroenterological diseases is pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas. It happens in an acute or chronic form (with periodic exacerbations). Symptoms are characteristic of both an attack of acute pancreatitis and an exacerbation of the chronic form of the disease.

In addition to nausea, the disease is accompanied by vomiting and pain in the upper abdomen. Sometimes they are shingles in nature and extremely painful.

Read also

When the intestines grumble

Irritable bowel syndrome is a violation of the basic functions of the organ. With this disease, the pain sensitivity of the intestine increases: even ordinary irritants cause severe cramps, discomfort in the abdomen and impaired stool. The disease often occurs against the background of increased stress, depression, chronic fatigue and anxiety. Other possible causes: violation of the intestinal microflora, hormonal changes and a hereditary factor.

Inflammatory bowel disease

Abdominal pain and nausea can be associated with ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and intestinal obstruction – a violation of the passage of feces through the intestines due to obstructions – adhesions, volvulus of the intestine or tumor.

In Crohn’s disease, the inflammatory process can affect all parts of the gastrointestinal tract, but most often it affects the large intestine and ileum – the final section of the small intestine. Manifestations are different, but most often it is cramping abdominal pain and nausea, malaise, bloating and seething in the abdomen.

Read also

It is important to deal with the doctor

The listed diagnoses are serious diseases that require medical attention. Don’t wait for nausea and stomach pain to go away on their own. It is better to immediately consult a doctor: a therapist or a gastroenterologist, as well as pass the necessary tests and undergo an ultrasound scan of the abdominal cavity or intestines.

Text author: Alena Paretskaya

Stomach hurts after coronavirus: what to do?

Most post-COVID symptoms are similar to those of COVID-19 itself. The top 5 most common residual symptoms of coronavirus infection are fatigue (58%), headache (44%), difficulty concentrating (27%), hair loss (25%) and shortness of breath (24%) [2]. Most often, post-COVID symptoms are associated with the lungs, cardiovascular and nervous system. Digestive disorders are less common, but also characteristic – they are noted in about 12% of those who have been ill [2]. In addition to abdominal pain, after covid-19, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and bloating may disturb [2, 3].

Why does my stomach hurt with COVID-19?

Although COVID-19 is classified as a respiratory infection, it can also affect the digestive tract. ACE2 receptors, which serve as a gateway for this new coronavirus, are present not only in the lungs, but also in the intestines [3, 4]. Therefore, the virus can also cause inflammation there, which in some patients is manifested by diarrhea and abdominal pain [4]. In fact, we are talking about an acute intestinal infection caused by a coronavirus.

Possible causes of abdominal pain after corona are irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or functional dyspepsia following infectious diarrhea [3, 6]. The risk of developing IBS is especially high in the case of [4]: ​​

• prolonged diarrhea;
• antibiotic treatment;
• weight loss;
• stress.

This is common in patients with COVID-19 and diarrhea [4]. However, these functional digestive disorders usually have a favorable prognosis and their symptoms resolve completely after weeks or months [3].

Abdominal pain, bloating, nausea and diarrhea can also be manifestations of dysbacteriosis, which often occurs against the background of COVID-19 [5, 6]. It has been proven that coronavirus infection can disrupt the intestinal microflora due to an increase in the number of pathogenic microbes and a decrease in the number of “beneficial” bacteria [6]. Restoring the microbial balance of the gut can help relieve residual symptoms.

When should you see a doctor?

Minor side effects of the gastrointestinal tract after experiencing COVID-19 are usually successfully treated with over-the-counter drugs. But if the symptoms do not go away for a long time, it is better to see a doctor, even if you are not sure if this is due to a coronavirus infection [3].

So, COVID-19 can cause not only respiratory symptoms, but also digestive symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. In some patients, these disorders persist even after the end of an acute infection. The cause of their occurrence may be the consequences of intestinal inflammation and disorders of the intestinal microflora. Usually, abdominal pain and other digestive disorders go away on their own, but in case of prolonged and severe symptoms, you should consult a doctor.

References:

1. WHO Coronavirus (COVID-19) Dashboard https://covid19.who.int/
2. Lopez-Leon, S., Wegman-Ostrosky, T., Perelman, C. et al. More than 50 long-term effects of COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Sci Rep 11, 16144 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-95565-8
3. Molly Chiu. Addressing post-COVID-19 gastrointestinal symptoms. July 16, 2021 https://blogs.bcm.edu/2021/07/16/addressing-post-covid-19-gastrointestinal-symptoms/
4. Dipasquale, V., Passanisi, S., Cucinotta, U. et al. Implications of SARS-COV-2 infection in the diagnosis and management of the pediatric gastrointestinal disease.