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What Can Cause A Viral Infection In The GI Tract?

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Posted on Tue, 22 Feb 2022
Question: Hi what can cause a viral infection in the GI tract
doctor
Answered by Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Orally the virus can enter and cause GI problems

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

I would need you to specify what sort of viral infection you are talking about. For example, unclean hands can introduce viruses (or other pathogens) and lead to acute gastroenteritis manifesting with vomiting and/or diarrhea. Other viruses can enter in similar manner and cause hepatitis or jaundice. Let me know and I will guide you accordingly.

Let me know if I could help further.

Regards
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (43 minutes later)
I Don't know my 1st ? was that. ... for the last 2 wks I have had constant bowel movements very few of them Diarrhea, or hard stool... much pressure in my stomach like my stomach was hard, headaches light headedness, not much of an appetite and weight loss.. I got a reply back that it could possible be a Virus in my GI tract.. I wanted to see if a Dr could elaborate on this.. like what is causing it should I go to the emergency room.. please help..

Thank You!
doctor
Answered by Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (5 hours later)
Brief Answer:
You possibly suffered from an episode of acute gastroenteritis.

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

You possibly suffered from an episode of acute gastroenteritis. It could be due to a GI virus or could be due to some bacteria or preformed bacterial toxin. The source is usually contaminated hands or contaminated food. Even if the condition is due to a bacteria, unless there is bloody stool, the condition is self limiting and the cause does not need to be treated. The mainstay of treatment is ORS (Oral rehydration solution). Irrespective of treatment the condition may last for 3-7 days. Management is supportive and symptomatic.

Regards
Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj
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Answered by
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Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1954

Answered : 4467 Questions

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What Can Cause A Viral Infection In The GI Tract?

Brief Answer: Orally the virus can enter and cause GI problems Detailed Answer: Hi, I would need you to specify what sort of viral infection you are talking about. For example, unclean hands can introduce viruses (or other pathogens) and lead to acute gastroenteritis manifesting with vomiting and/or diarrhea. Other viruses can enter in similar manner and cause hepatitis or jaundice. Let me know and I will guide you accordingly. Let me know if I could help further. Regards