[20M] With acute gastrointestinal distress and associated symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, here are a few possibilities:

• Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, usually resulting from a viral or bacterial infection. It can cause symptoms like stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Your fever and chills could also be related to this condition.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Antibiotics may be necessary if the cause is bacterial.

• Food poisoning: This occurs when you eat food that has been contaminated with harmful bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Symptoms can start within hours of eating the contaminated food and can include stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and chills.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to manage symptoms.

• Gastritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach lining, which can cause pain, nausea, and vomiting. It can be caused by various factors, including certain medications, excessive alcohol consumption, and infections.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid and possibly antibiotics if an infection is present.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the symptoms you've described, and only a healthcare professional can provide a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

Here are some general suggestions that may help you feel better:

1. Rest and stay hydrated. Drink small sips of water or suck on ice chips if you're having trouble keeping fluids down.
2. Avoid eating solid food until your vomiting stops. Then try eating small amounts of bland foods, like rice, applesauce, or crackers.
3. Over-the-counter medications like Pepto-Bismol or Imodium can help with diarrhea and stomach upset. Be sure to follow the package instructions.
4. If you have a fever, over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce your temperature and make you more comfortable.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Blood in your vomit or stool
• Symptoms that last more than a few days or get worse
• Dehydration symptoms, such as extreme thirst, dry mouth, little to no urination, severe weakness, dizziness, or lightheadedness

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may need different approaches. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment.