Covid and Digestive issues: Get all details

Digestive issues during the pandemic…learn what the experts have to say…

Friday, 21st May 2021

As the country grapples with the second wave of the deadly coronavirus pandemic experts reveal that the covid pandemic can bring with it several digestive issues such as bloating, acidity, and gaseousness. Inactivity due to the covid-induced lockdown can result in these issues and patients are approaching doctors at an alarming scale due to these digestive problems.

Stress-free life, healthy diet, quality sleep, and regular exercises are the four vital pillars to keep digestive issues at bay. However, since the last year and more series of lockdowns have caused people to stay confined within their homes and utilize their boredom in cooking and eating.

Also, reliance on processed foods high in calories and spices increased during the lockdown period. Even though restaurants are shut down, orders for home delivery have been on the rise. The meal schedules went terribly topsy-turvy as people are really struggling hard to maintain their everyday routines and their sleep cycles. Furthermore, stress levels have increased as many are battling against the dearth of funds and grief arising from the loss of close family members. Also, the closure of outdoor routes due to lockdown has led to lessened scope for physical activity and exercise. All these factors have led to scores of digestive issues for people.

Aparna Govil Bhasker, a well known Laparoscopic and bariatric surgeon at the Saifee Hospital, Mumbai, stated, “It is now known that Covid-19 infection by itself can also lead to gastro-intestinal presentation in the form of loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and pain in the abdomen. Along with this, there is an increasing number of patients who present with a range of digestive issues like bloating, gaseousness, acidity, acid reflux, constipation, and exacerbation of irritable bowel syndrome, in the recovery phase after the Covid infection. Treatment of Covid-19 includes multiple drug combinations. Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, antimalarials, and steroids need to be used in many patients and tend to take a toll on the gastro-intestinal system during the recovery phase."

There is an immense need to spare a thought about these gastrointestinal issues. “Have a disciplined daily routine. Diet is a very important aspect and special care must be taken to avoid an oily and excessively spicy diet. Stay away from sugar. Try not to order food from outside very frequently. Eat on time and avoid very late-night meals. Include salads, fruits, and curd in the diet regularly. Also, be cognizant about portion control. Try to avoid overeating and excessive snacking. Limit tea and coffee intake to one or two cups a day. Refrain from smoking and alcohol. Practice mindful eating."

“Lastly, have enough water and keep yourself hydrated. Regular exercise is also very important for digestive health. If you cannot go outside, do home exercises. You can walk or do yoga or follow some fitness apps as per your health status. Maintaining good sleep hygiene is also essential for good health," suggested Dr. Aparna. “All these can be practiced easily at home."

During your recovery phase post covid, you are earnestly to be in touch with your doctor for on-time management of such digestive issues.

The News Talkie Bureau

Source:

News18