How to tell if it's due to catching a chill or eating something bad
May 16, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
You can differentiate between catching a chill and food poisoning based on accompanying symptoms, duration, treatment methods, and other aspects. In addition to the common methods mentioned above, differentiation can also be made according to the underlying pathogenic mechanisms. If the cause cannot be promptly identified, it is important to seek timely medical evaluation, complete relevant examinations, determine the exact cause, and allow doctors to develop a targeted treatment plan.
Generally, it is possible to determine whether symptoms are caused by exposure to cold or by consuming contaminated food based on accompanying symptoms, duration, treatment methods, etc. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Accompanying Symptoms
After abdominal exposure to cold, excessive contraction of the smooth muscles in the gastrointestinal tract may occur, leading to abdominal pain and diarrhea. If symptoms result from eating spoiled food, they may also include nausea and vomiting, and tend to be more pronounced.
2. Duration
Gastrointestinal discomfort caused by cold exposure is usually temporary. In contrast, symptoms from eating contaminated food may last longer and often require medical intervention.
3. Treatment Methods
Cold-induced discomfort generally does not require special treatment and can be relieved through abdominal massage and keeping the abdomen warm. For stomach upset due to spoiled food, oral medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated tablets or montmorillonite powder may be needed. In severe cases, prompt medical attention is required, possibly including gastric lavage at a hospital.
In addition to the common methods mentioned above, differentiation can also be made based on underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. If the cause cannot be clearly identified promptly, it is important to seek timely medical evaluation, complete relevant examinations, and allow doctors to establish an appropriate, targeted treatment plan after determining the exact cause.
