In a nutshell, an allergy can be defined as an abnormal reaction from an individual’s immune system normally against a harmless substance. Individuals with no allergies would not have a reaction to these substances, or allergens, but the body’s of those who do release certain chemicals and it is these that cause the allergy symptoms.

An allergy can range from such things as itchy eyes to rashes to runny nose and is so widespread that they can affect 25% of the population at some stage of their lives. People have to be aware though, that these symptoms can be caused by factors other than an allergy as well, and could well be from a disease instead. More or less anything can be classed as an allergen for an individual but the most common come from pollen, dust mites, pets, insects, industrial chemicals, certain medicines and some foods like eggs and milk.

Common Allergic Reactions

The immune system of an allergic person reacts by producing special kinds of antibodies called IgE when it thinks it is being “damaged” by an allergen, and these antibodies attack the invader. This procedure then causes other blood cells to discharge other chemicals, which together with the antibodies cause the allergic reaction symptoms.

Food Allergies

Rotavirus infection affects the stomach and intestines in children with symptoms including diarrhea and vomiting. Most cases of the rotavirus infection are mild and usually clear up without medical intervention within a few days but some children, especially toddlers under the age of two, can be at risk of dehydration so it is essential to keep them hydrated with plenty of fluids.

The rotavirus infection is spread by infected people who haven’t washed their hands properly after going to the toilet. This can cause tiny amounts of infected feces being passed on to the child.  Small amounts of these infected feces can also be carried in the air resulting in the child inhaling them. Most children will have contracted the rotavirus infection by the age of five.  The rotavirus infection is more common during the winter and spring and it is usually common for the first virus to be the worst as after that the child will have built up some immunity.  It is for this reason that the rotavirus is rare in adults.

Rotavirus Infection

The rotavirus is extremely contagious in children and can even infect children who have already had the infection due to full immunity not being built up.  It is a good idea to isolate an infected child for a period of at least 48 hours after they have stopped having diarrhea and vomiting.

Symptoms of the rotavirus infection include rapid onset of diarrhea and vomiting and also occasionally a high temperature of 38C or above however it is important to recognize the signs of dehydration as this can occur if not enough fluids are taken.  Signs of dehydration include weakness, rapid breathing, little or no urine, or dry mouth and eyes.

The most important thing to do for a child with the rotavirus infection is to keep them hydrated and the infection will usually pass within a few days.

When a part of the small or large intestine (the bowels) becomes blocked, either totally or partially so that stools cannot get through, this is known as a bowel obstruction; and it can happen to anybody.

Blockages can occur for a number of reasons. Some of these include hernia, gallstones, tumors, abnormal growth of tissue, a twisted intestine or foreign body (by swallowing a non-food item).

Bowel Obstruction

A blocked bowel is usually a serious condition that requires medical attention. Sometimes, the intestine may have to be decompressed which is achieved by the insertion of a (nasogastric) tube into the stomach. If this doesn’t manage to resolve the blockage then surgery may be required.

There are some complications associated with bowel obstructions. If not treated, for example, a part of the bowel tissue could die resulting in infection and even in some cases, gangrene. There is also the possibility of the intestine becoming perforated, and this is a medical emergency should it happen.

The symptoms of a blocked bowel can include the total lack of stools as none can get through, or diarrhea as only liquid stools can get through. Pain, bloating and cramps also point to a blocked bowel, as do bad breath and vomiting. Diagnosis of a bowel obstruction is carried out be a physical examination in combination with diagnostic tests.