Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I am a 50-year-old male, and I had norovirus about two weeks ago. While the vomiting and diarrhea stopped, I am still having ongoing stomach pain, bloating, and irregular bowel movements. I already have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but it seems much worse since I got sick.
Can norovirus trigger long-term digestive issues or post-infectious IBS?
Should I change my diet or take probiotics to help my gut recover?
Kindly help.
Thank you.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I read your query and can understand your concern.
Your vomiting and diarrhea have stopped, which is really reassuring. It indicates that the acute phase of the norovirus infection has resolved well. Irregular bowel movements and bloating can be related to your gut dysbiosis (bacterial imbalance in the gut), and I would suggest that you should take probiotics once daily for at least 10-14 days. This will gradually help restore the natural balance of your gut flora.
In patients with a sensitive gut, like those with a history of IBS, after infection, there is a 10 percent chance that they will suffer post-infectious IBS or IBS exacerbation. This is a well-recognised phenomenon, and your symptoms are consistent with this pattern.
Diet modifications like
Avoiding eating out and reheated meals will help too.
Sticking to fresh, light, and easily digestible home-cooked meals during this recovery phase is advisable.
For abdominal pain, you can take antispasmodic medicine like tab Mebeverine 135mg once daily or as needed for abdominal pain. This should provide you with relief from the cramping and discomfort you are experiencing.
I hope this information helps you.
Feel free to ask further queries.
Thank you.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Related Questions
Can norovirus infection be avoided in healthcare settings?
Diarrhea and blood spotting after a trip is a sign of travel tummy?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Diarrhea During Pregnancy - Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Can norovirus infection cause long-term digestive issues?
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.