Beware – gastroenteritis can lead to kidney failure

One of the most common diseases that strike people in monsoon season is gastroenteritis. While the disease is known to cause mostly vomiting and cramps, it can get more serious and lead to renal (kidn

By: Editorial Team | | Updated: March 23, 2015 11:43 am

Gastroenteritis-Kidney Failure One of the most common diseases that strike people in monsoon season is gastroenteritis. While the disease is known to cause mostly vomiting and cramps, it can get more serious and lead to renal (kidney) complications. Since the start of monsoon season, over 2000 people in the city of Mumbai have been hospitalised with the disease and about 500 people contract the disease every week. Recently Also Read - Expert speak: Coronary Angioplasty is the best treatment for renal failure patients

Recently, two patients from Byculla suffered acute renal failure after getting admitted for gastroenteritis reports The Times of India. The condition is mostly characterised by a sudden decline in the volume of fluid filtered by the kidneys. In serious cases, dialysis may be needed. Renal failure is likely to occur in 5-7% of cases and leads to increased hospital stay and even mortality. So the best thing is to follow some basic hygiene rules and keep gastroenteritis at bay: Also Read - Indian women can develop renal problems

Keep your surroundings clean. Disinfect common surfaces (like table tops, door handles etc.) with a chlorine based, or bleach based cleaner.
Make sure you wash your hands well after using the bathroom. This is very important if you use a common bathroom, either at work or any other place.
Wash your hands well and regularly— especially before eating or cooking any food.
Avoid eating food prepared at roadside stalls or places where there is an unknown water source.
Make sure that drinking water is properly boiled, and treated with chlorine.
Avoid eating undercooked or raw fish.
Do not eat pre-cut fruits, available on the streets. Make sure you cut and peel the fruits yourself, and store them in well washed vessels.
If you get wet in the rain and walk in puddles of water, wash your hands and feet well as soon as you get the chance, without touching anything else. This will minimize the transmission of the organism through fomites (inanimate objects).
Remove your shoes outside your house, if you have walked in puddles. This is a good way to avoid carrying bacteria from puddles into your home. Another option is to remove your shoes and carry them to the place of storage.
If you work on a computer or laptop, make sure you clean your keyboard and mouse well before use, as they are common agents that can spread the bacterium.
Try to lower your stress levels. Excessive stress has been known to lower one’s immunity, making you more susceptible to contracting diseases.