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What Causes Severe Painful Cramps, Nausea And Diarrhea In An Elderly Woman?
My mom is 71 years old and is complaining of really painful cramps every 15 minutes along with nausea and diarrhea symptoms. her blood pressure is 168 over 86. She is drinking water but little food today. This is day one of symptoms. What could this be and should she see a doctor tonight?
Wed, 10 Aug 2016
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
The symptoms are likely related to an infection of the gastrointestinal tract.
These are most commonly viral or bacterial though viral is more common.
In most cases the symptoms last only a few days up to a week but if they are severe or she is dehydrated then she may need to be seen.
Treatment mainly involves: (1) hold off all solid food till there is a 4 hour window with no symptoms
The colon cannot absorb solid food and it would make the symptoms worse
When this time period occurs start with small amounts of dry solid food
(2)fluids are very important to prevent dehydration. Small amounts frequently.
If she uses large amounts at a time, she may vomit.
Initially use 1 tsp to 1 tbs of fluid every 5 mins, increase if tolerated
Oral rehydration fluids or sport drinks may be the best because give fluids and electrolytes
(3)probiotics
(4)meds such as pepto bismol or lomotil
I hope this helps
The symptoms are likely related to an infection of the gastrointestinal tract.
These are most commonly viral or bacterial though viral is more common.
In most cases the symptoms last only a few days up to a week but if they are severe or she is dehydrated then she may need to be seen.
Treatment mainly involves: (1) hold off all solid food till there is a 4 hour window with no symptoms
The colon cannot absorb solid food and it would make the symptoms worse
When this time period occurs start with small amounts of dry solid food
(2)fluids are very important to prevent dehydration. Small amounts frequently.
If she uses large amounts at a time, she may vomit.
Initially use 1 tsp to 1 tbs of fluid every 5 mins, increase if tolerated
Oral rehydration fluids or sport drinks may be the best because give fluids and electrolytes
(3)probiotics
(4)meds such as pepto bismol or lomotil
I hope this helps
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