GASTROINTESTINAL DISEASES FROM ANIMALS

Gastrointestinal diseases from animals such as E.coli, Cryptosporidium parvum, Campylobacter, and Salmonella have the potential to be passed from animals to humans, causing serious illness in the latter. In most cases, digestive disorders are caused by food and water. However, any of these may be acquired via interaction with animals or their habitats.

In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of intestinal disorders related to venues where the public interacts with farm animals (e.g., petting zoos, state or county fairs, educational farms). 

TYPES

Common Gastrointestinal diseases from animals include:

  • Salmonellosis 
  • Campylobacteriosis 
  • Cryptosporidiosis 
  • Giardiasis
  • Escherichia coli  

SYMPTOMS

Salmonellosis

The bacterial disease is associated with poultry, wild birds, farm animals, and reptiles.

  • Diarrhea 
  • Fever
  • Abdominal pain 
  • Cramps

The onset of symptoms typically occurs between 12 and 96 hours after exposure.

Campylobacteriosis

A bacterial disease associated with poultry, puppies, kittens, livestock, and unpasteurized milk.

  • Fever 
  • Diarrhea 
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal pain

Symptoms of campylobacteriosis often appear 2 to 5 days following contact with the bacteria.

Cryptosporidiosis

A parasitic disease is associated with lambs, calves, and goat kids.

  • Vomiting
  • Watery diarrhea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Fever
  • Stomach cramps

Giardiasis

Illness of the small intestine brought on by Giardia lamblia, a microscopic parasite. Some persons may contain giardia parasites without showing any signs of illness. Typical symptoms include:

  • Indigestion or greasy stools
  • Fatigue
  • Appetite loss
  • Nausea
  • Slimming down
  • A lot of gas
  • Headaches
  • Vomiting, bloating, and stomach pains
  • Stomach ache

E.Coli infection

  • Severe bloody diarrhea
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Little or no fever

DIAGNOSIS

The medical team may question you about your symptoms and recent activities, among other things, to assist them in reaching a diagnosis since there are a variety of disorders that come under the category of gastrointestinal (GI) ailments.

Your physician may prescribe the following tests:

  • Urine test
  • Blood tests
  • Stool sample examination

TREATMENT

Self-care methods are the suggested therapy in the majority of instances. Viruses and parasites are not susceptible to antibiotic treatment. In primary cases of bacterial infection, antibiotics may prolong the condition and raise the likelihood of a recurrence, although medicines may aid under challenging situations.

Additionally, antibiotics may have hazardous side effects in some illnesses. Your physician can assess if you or your kid need antibiotics. Your doctor may urge you to avoid high-fiber foods that may exacerbate diarrhea. Additionally, they may suggest over-the-counter drugs that neutralize stomach acid or treat nausea, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea. Hydration is the most critical self-care therapy for adults and children with GI illnesses.

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