When readers last dropped in, they read more about gastroenteritis and the risk of dehydration. As with most digestive health conditions, seeking immediate medical attention is usually the best option to prevent further damage. Today, we are sharing the long-term complications of not receiving proper medical attention for gastroenteritis by starting off with the risk of electrolyte imbalances.
Complications of untreated gastroenteritis:
Last week, we shared the dangers of dehydration. As we all know, fluids is the obvious necessity for treating dehydration. Pedialyte and other drinks with low sodium are great for replenishing fluids.
As we mentioned, antibiotics are necessary for bacterial infections. Viral infections cannot be treated with antibiotics. Hospitalization may be required for severe cases especially when dehydration is present.
Untreated dehydration can be life-threatening. If a person is treated in time, they may still even run the risk of electrolyte imbalance. Electrolytes are essential minerals found in the body.
Muscle function and minerals:
They are necessary for nerve and muscle function which is why sport drinks advertise electrolytes as an ingredient. Electrolytes are also needed for body-fluid balance and other vital processes. They are particles which carry an electrical charge.
Electrolytes are present in our blood, plasma, urine, and other bodily fluids. They can come in the form of different minerals such as magnesium, chlorine, phosphate, potassium, calcium, and sodium. We get these from foods, supplements, or fluids.
Electrolyte imbalances:
For example, if you experience cramping due to a menstrual cycle or exercise recovery, doctors recommend eating a banana as they have an abundance of potassium. Like other electrolytes, potassium is required for muscular functions.
When humans sweat, some electrolytes may become low. Vomiting and diarrhea are common symptoms of gastroenteritis and cause electrolyte imbalances. Electrolytes imbalances can be caused by a deficiency or an overabundance of minerals in the body.
Hyperkalemia and hypercalcemia are indicative of excess amounts of potassium and calcium. These conditions can disrupt the overall balance and function of nerves, cardiovascular system, and muscles.
Electrolyte imbalances may come along with other symptoms including the following:
- dark urine
- dry skin
- decreased urination
- constipation
- lack of perspiration
- dry mouth
- bad breath
- muscle weakness
- stiff or aching joints
When the Emergency Room is required:
Go to the emergency room immediately if you or someone else has the following signs:
- a sudden change in behavior such as confusion, delirium, lethargy, hallucinations, or delusions
- sunken eyes
- poor skin elasticity
- rapid heart rate
Join us next time as we share how digestive health issues mentioned today can be treated. Make an appointment today if you are experiencing digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome or frequent stomach pains. We will be sure to enforce our COVID-19 procedures to keep patients and staff safe.
Remember, as block parties, barbeques, and parties are planned for St. Patrick’s Day, stay hydrated especially when outdoors. For those dealing with digestive issues such as diarrhea and vomiting, avoiding others is your responsibility. Having viral gastroenteritis means it could be contracted by someone else.
Spring is also on its way! Prepare your body to enjoy the gorgeous upcoming weather where many of us Floridians get a chance to take a beach trip, swim, or go boating. Come back next time for more gastroenterology education.
Staff Writer