AskDocDoc
/
/
/
stomach bacterial infection
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7, 100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime. No sign-up needed.
Digestive Health
Question #12858
2 days ago
18

stomach bacterial infection - #12858

Aasha

I am feeling super worried because I think I might have a stomach bacterial infection, and it’s been a mess for the last few weeks. At first, I just thought I was having bad indigestion or something. I’ve been experiencing nausea, bloating, and this weird pain in my gut that just doesn’t want to go away. I went to see my doctor, and they did some tests, which showed elevated white blood cell count. They mentioned a stomach bacterial infection, but I got a bit lost in the whole explanation. It was like “What does this mean for me?” The thought of a stomach bacterial infection feels so intimidating, you know? Like, will I need antibiotics, and how long will it take to get over this? I’m also a bit curious if my eating habits could trigger this sort of thing since I’ve been eating some takeout a lot lately. How do I know for sure it’s a stomach bacterial infection and not just some other issue? Anyone had a similar experience? What should I be on the lookout for? Is there anything I can do at home while I wait for follow-ups? Thanks for any help!

FREE
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors’ responses

Your symptoms suggest a possible stomach bacterial infection, which could be due to bacteria like Helicobacter pylori or foodborne pathogens. These infections can cause nausea, bloating, and abdominal pain, among other symptoms. An elevated white blood cell count typically indicates your body is responding to an infection. Antibiotics are often the primary treatment if the infection results from bacteria that’s sensitive to such medication, but your doctor will tailor the treatment based on specific test results. Recovery time can vary, depending on the severity of the infection and how well it responds to treatment—typically, a couple of weeks might be realistic, but your doctor will give you more precise information. Regarding your eating habits, consuming improperly prepared or stored food can indeed increase the risk of bacterial infection, especially from takeout. It’s important to ensure food safety practices like hygiene when eating out or ordering in. While at home, stay hydrated, stick to bland and non-irritating foods, and monitor any changes in symptoms closely. If you notice red flags such as severe abdominal pain, high fever, or signs of dehydration, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly, as these could signify more serious conditions requiring immediate care. Follow your doctor’s follow-up instructions to confirm the diagnosis and get appropriate treatment. It’s also helpful to maintain a food diary if you note any specific patterns or triggers that worsen your symptoms. This can provide valuable insight for both you and your healthcare provider.

2901 answered questions
45% best answers

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions