Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis, sometimes erroneously called the “stomach flu,” is the inflammation of the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. The most common cause of gastroenteritis is infection by a virus such as norovirus or rotavirus. Less commonly it may be a result of bacterial or parasite infection. Symptoms can include diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, and fever. The length of illness depends in part upon the cause of the infection, as well as whether complications arise. Uncomplicated viral gastroenteritis usually lasts a few days to a week, though one may be contagious beyond the resolution of symptoms. Complications may include dehydration, which is more common in those at higher risk such as young children, older adults, or those with compromised immune systems or gastrointestinal tract function (such as those with inflammatory bowel disease).
Gastroenteritis is spread by contact with infected people and/or objects, surfaces, or food. The virus is then spread to the mucous membranes through touching one’s eyes, nose, mouth, etc. The best prevention is proper handwashing, disinfecting potentially infected surfaces, avoid touching the eyes/nose, etc., and staying away from large groups of people or known infected individuals (especially for those with increased risk factors). Bacterial gastroenteritis, sometimes called food poisoning, may be contracted through improper food preparation, storage, or by the transfer of bacteria to food preparation surfaces. Handwashing and following guidelines for food preparation and storage can deter the spread of bacterial gastroenteritis.
People who contract gastroenteritis may or may not be diagnosed by a doctor. While there is no cure for gastroenteritis, a doctor may recommend blood and/or stool testing should complications develop. Dehydration should be diagnosed and treated by a physician, perhaps including intravenous fluid administration. Otherwise symptomatic treatment, such as plenty of sleep, fluids, and over the counter medication to control fever, pain, and other symptoms is recommended. Many OTC medicines contain acetaminophen and should be used with caution, and use of OTC medications in children should always be guided by a pediatrician.
A Whole Health Perspective
Looking at the Gastroenteritis through a Whole Health model, we explore the individual’s unique presentation from the 5 Aspects of Whole Health™ perspective.
1. Physically – The major function of the gastrointestinal tract is to digest and assimilate nutrients and fluid from consumed food and drink into the body, and to expel waste. The gastrointestinal tract is lined with cells which work to break down and absorb nutrients. It also contains immunological tissue designed to detect and respond to foreign invaders such as allergens, bacteria, or virus particles. Thus, the health of the gastrointestinal tract lining is essential in fighting off infection. The barrier wall of the intestinal tract can become compromised by a variety of irritants including alcohol, allergens, cigarette smoke, infective agents, etc. Keeping the lining of the intestinal tract, including immunological tissue within and surrounding it, healthy and responsive may help deter gastrointestinal infection such as the gastroenteritis. This can be accomplished in part through proper diet, avoiding irritants, and decreasing overall stress. Some studies suggest a beneficial link between particular herbal remedies and intestinal barrier health.
In addition to the immunological tissue of the GI tract, the intestines also house may beneficial bacteria, known as the gut microbiome. Alterations in this bacterial balance, sometimes caused by factors such as diet and stress, can increase susceptibility to infection and disease of the gastrointestinal tract.
Because the gastrointestinal system is part of the immunological response system, supporting the immune system as a whole is important both in prevention of and recovery from infection. Stress, such as a job change, relationship difficulties, or chronic illness, may cause dysfunction of the immune system. This is in part due to the influence of the adrenal glands, located atop the kidneys, and responsible for the stress reaction. The adrenal glands are part of a stress signaling system, called the Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis. Disturbance in this system, sometimes caused by exposure to chronic stress, affects hormone levels and immune function. It also can affect the motility and function of the gastrointestinal tract. Because repeated exposure to stress can cause adrenal dysfunction and potentially alter the gastrointestinal tract and the function of the immune system, stress management techniques such as moderate exercise, meditation, breathing techniques, yoga, adequate amounts of sleep, etc. can support the immune system and assist in recovering from illness.
Some research exists suggesting that Traditional Chinese Medicine and the use of herbal preparations may assist in the modulation of the immune response associated with the gastrointestinal tract. Acupuncture also may also be used to promote overall health and function of the gastrointestinal tract.
2. Chemically/Nutritionally – Foods and chemicals ingested can impact health and wellness. Healthy nutrition in general supports the body and provides the nutrients necessary for good health. Especially during acute episodes of gastroenteritis, avoidance of irritants such as highly processed foods, alcohol, sugar, trans fats, and caffeine is important. Proper nutrition supports the immune system also, which is implicated in the pathogenesis of gastroenteritis. After the acute phase of gastroenteritis is resolved, supporting the body’s healing process and reaction to the stress of illness through attention to particular vitamins and mineral is important. These include cholesterol, protein, vitamins A, C, E, and B complex, essential fatty acids, and essential minerals. Some research suggests a link between adequate mineral and vitamin levels, such as vitamin D, and immune health. Further, a Harvard study recently showed that diet can quickly affect the gut microbiome, which in turn may potentially alter one’s health status and susceptibility to disease. Proper nutrition as well as supplementation with pre and probiotics may assist in healthy gut microbiome. Some studies suggest a positive correlation between immune health and the ingestion of fermented foods. Certain medications, such as NSAIDS or aspirin, may affect the lining of the gastrointestinal tract.
3. Emotional – Emotional responses communicate to the immune system and gastrointestinal tract via chemicals called neuropeptides and neurotransmitters and through the adrenal gland hormones (glands which respond to stressors and then biochemically communicate with other organs and tissues). Research indicates that engaging in positive emotional response affects the inflammatory response and immune system (part of the pathogenesis of gastroenteritis). Psychological and physical stress, and the associated emotions, may negatively affect susceptibility to infection, the healing process, and the function and motility of the gastrointestinal tract. Additionally, the microbiota of the gut and emotional and mental health are intricately associated via the gut-brain axis. Attending to emotions and stress thus can positively affect both the immune system and the gastrointestinal tract. Certain relaxation practices, such as diaphragmatic breathing, mindfulness, meditation or gentle yoga can be utilized to reduce the stress response. Time spent out of doors, especially in forest settings, can decrease the stress response and result in greater psychological health. Discussing difficult emotions, such as anxiety, frustration, anger, or grief, with a mental health practitioner may be helpful, as will finding supportive relationships. In fact, the perception of social support may possibly decrease the risk of viral infection and the symptoms associated with it.
4. Environmental – Environmental factors which may compromise the health of the gastrointestinal tract may include air pollutants such as cigarette smoke, toxins found in soil, food and water, and exposure to viruses or bacteria on food or food preparation surfaces. Frequent time spent in large groups, such as schools, etc., increase one’s exposure to viral and bacterial exposure. Other environmental factors, such as a stressful job or relationship, and repeated exposure to bright lights, loud noises, weather fluctuations, may increase symptoms through their effects on the adrenal gland stress response, immune system, and gastrointestinal system. Alleviating exposure to environmental triggers and stress could possibly result in a healthier immune response to virus and bacteria exposure as well as regulate the motility and function of the gastrointestinal tract. Mild to moderate exercise can regulate the immune system and improve the health of the gastrointestinal tract, but should not be undertaken during acute infection. Time spent out of doors has a beneficial effect on the immune system, especially when engaged in activities in a woods or forest setting.
5. Beliefs, Values and Worldview – also identified as Spirituality – Spiritual expression, whether through prayer, meditation, yoga, traditional worship, etc. has an influence on health and wellbeing, often by encouraging an understanding and connection between mind, body, and spirit. Possible feelings of isolation, living in discordance with one’s values, or inability to connect with support and the natural surroundings due to illness or other factors could increase stress and exacerbate symptoms. Activities such as those listed above which encourage social support and a meaningful connection to others and the natural world can alleviate stress and encourage overall wellness.