What are the symptoms of enteritis?

Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
Updated on November 14, 2024
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Enteritis is mostly caused by bacterial or viral infections, with typical symptoms being abdominal pain and diarrhea. The bacterial or viral infection causes congestion and edema of the mucous membrane in the intestines, leading to a reduced function in digesting and absorbing food. If the bacteria or virus is particularly virulent, it can damage the intestinal mucosa and cause bloody stools. Enteritis is a common characteristic of many diseases, such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and infectious diarrhea. Clinically, the treatment mainly involves the use of antibiotics and medications to stabilize the intestines and stop diarrhea. Prolonged diarrhea can lead to dehydration, which requires timely rehydration. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

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How to treat enteritis in children

How to treat enteritis in children? First, it is necessary to assess whether the enteritis is caused by a virus or a bacterial infection. If it is simply viral enteritis, the first step generally involves rehydration, which can be provided through oral rehydration salts to replenish fluids and electrolytes. Additionally, probiotics such as Bifidobacterium or Lactobacillus acidophilus can be given to regulate the intestinal flora, and smectite can be used to protect the gastrointestinal mucosa. If it is viral diarrhea, antiviral medications can also be added to the treatment. If the diarrhea is considered to be caused by a bacterial infection in the intestines, some antibiotics can be administered orally, including cephalosporins or penicillin antibiotics. If the infection is severe, intravenous therapy may be necessary.

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What to eat for enteritis?

For patients with enteritis, it is good to eat foods that help improve nutritional status and the intestinal environment. Generally, a high-protein, high-calorie diet is recommended. Additionally, foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and trace elements should be provided, especially those containing vitamin C, vitamin B, and rich in iron, to replenish energy. The food should be easy to digest, soft in texture, low in residue, and non-irritating. Low-residue foods can reduce intestinal motility, alleviating diarrhea, and include foods like eggs, fine noodles, and soft rice porridge. For staple foods and legumes: our main foods generally consist of refined grains such as rice porridge and noodles, avoiding coarse grains and appropriately including soy products like soy milk and tofu. For choices of meat, eggs, and dairy: lean meats, chicken, fish, etc., are generally recommended. For vegetables and fruits: vegetables, fruit juices should be chosen, and it is advisable to avoid foods high in fiber.

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What can you eat with enteritis?

Patients with enteritis primarily suffer from viral and bacterial infections, which can cause an imbalance in the intestinal flora, among other issues. Therefore, it is crucial for those with enteritis to pay attention to their diet during recovery. This includes avoiding spicy and irritating foods such as coffee, strong tea, and chili peppers, as these can exacerbate symptoms. Additionally, patients should avoid overeating and instead aim for a regular eating schedule, making adjustments based on their specific recovery progress. It is also important to focus on rest and sleep, avoid stress and excessive pressure, as these factors can potentially worsen the symptoms of enteritis.

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What should not be eaten with enteritis?

Enteritis is generally caused by viral or bacterial infections, which can lead to an imbalance in intestinal flora, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Therefore, special attention should be paid to diet. It is important to avoid raw and cold foods, as well as irritating foods. Do not consume spoiled or deteriorated foods, and avoid drinking contaminated water. Fruits should not be eaten raw; they must be thoroughly washed. It is also best to develop the good habit of washing hands before meals and after using the toilet, and to enhance the cleanliness of the surrounding environment and personal hygiene.

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What to do with infant enteritis?

When an infant has enteritis and frequently diarrhea, it is essential to treat this condition. First, you should administer appropriate anti-inflammatory medication. Additionally, medications that stop diarrhea and regulate intestinal flora are needed. If the infant has numerous bouts of diarrhea, followed by reduced urine output or cries without tears, it indicates dehydration. In such cases, it's important to replenish fluids, possibly through oral rehydration salts. If the infant shows significant restlessness or cries without any tears at all, or if there is a noticeable decrease in urine output, fluid replenishment therapy is necessary.