Gastrointestinal (GI) problems are a frequently encountered health issue that can range from mild discomfort to conditions requiring immediate treatment. Additionally, it is important to know where to seek treatment – whether at an urgent care centre or an A&E (Accident & Emergency). We will further discuss how to assess the severity of the symptoms and when to seek assistance from urgent care versus the A&E. The team at Absolute Urgent Care aims to help you understand and make this decision easily.
Basic definitions of Gastrointestinal Problems
Gastrointestinal problems refer to disorders related to the stomach, intestines, and digestive organs. Some common issues associated with GI include:
- Acid Reflux and Heartburn: This occurs when stomach acid escapes into the oesophagus.
- Gastroenteritis: Commonly referred to as the stomach flu. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, and various other symptoms.
- Constipation: Inability to ‘pass stool’ or having several days without a bowel movement.
- Diarrhoea: Defined as passing loose stools multiple times in a day.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Symptoms include recurrent abdominal pain, bloating, and varying bowel habits.
- Food Poisoning: Consuming food contaminated with harmful pollutants and toxins.
- Gallbladder Problems: Such as gallstones or inflammation, which can cause significant pain in the upper abdomen.
- Appendicitis: An infection of the appendix which can be a potential cause for concern.
Seek treatment if you notice:
There are several gastrointestinal ailments that tend to resolve on their own, but medical attention is necessary in certain situations. Some signs that require immediate attention include:
- Severe abdominal pain.
- Feeling nauseous or unable to stop vomiting.
- Blood present in stool or vomit.
- A high temperature alongside stomach pain.
- Diarrhoea lasts for more than two days.
- Signs of dehydration, such as dizziness or a dry mouth.
Sudden onset of painful bloating.
If there’s a need to closely review any medications being taken.
- Non-life-threatening issues related to the GI tract are better suited for treatment at urgent care facilities. The following instances can be addressed at urgent care:
- Mild or moderate abdominal pain that is present but not distressing.
- Persistent nausea despite multiple home remedies and a desire to vomit.
- Anti-nausea medication and hydrating fluids have little or no effect on the patient.
Distressing heartburn or severe acid reflux.
Constipation that is unresponsive to available medications.
This form of GI issue can be managed at Absolute Urgent Care, including prompt diagnosis of symptoms and treatment with IV fluids and anti-nausea medication.
When to Visit the A&E: An Overview
The A&E should always be the preferred choice in cases of life-threatening issues or whenever there is an acute problem concerning the gastrointestinal tract. Some symptoms that necessitate a visit to the A&E include but are not limited to:
Abdominal Pain That Is Unrelated to a Specific Area in The Abdomen: Consideration must be given to sudden, agonising pain or abdominal discomfort located on either side of the body.
- Appendicitis: Mild fever, nausea, a sense of impending vomiting, pain in the upper right side of the abdomen.
- Stool or Faeces Mixed With Blood: Blood in vomit or in faeces.
- Severe Dehydration: An inability to drink, with symptoms of nausea emerging.
- Gallbladder Attack: Intense, jabbing pain occurring in the upper right area of the abdomen.
- Bowel Obstruction or Blocked Region of The Bowel: An individual experiencing severe bloating, struggling to pass stool, and feeling nauseated.
In such cases the need of the hour arises for the use of advanced imaging gadgets, specialised surgical teams and intensive care that an A&E is able to offer.
- Deciding Factors Between A&E And Urgent Care: Changes In The Approach
Deciding between an urgent care and A&E there are some points that one must consider before reaching a final conclusion on the matter at hand, those are:
- Type of Symptoms: An unfortunate and mild- angry raw feeling and illness can be handled using urgent care but in contrast an aggressive form of trauma or a constant annoying feeling in a person requires the use of an A&E.
- Economical Aspect: Going to urgent care is much cheaper than going to an A&E.
- Time Spent: The length of waiting for an appointment at an urgent care is much shorter than going to an A&E.
- Treatment Scope: Despite the fact that many issues can be treated at urgent care facilities, they do not appear to have the level of sophistication in terms of equipment and personnel as in the A&E.
How Absolute Urgent Care Can Help
Gastrointestinal complications among other conditions are treated at Absolute Urgent Care. Quick and professional services are guaranteed. A list of our services include the following:
Diagnostic Testing: Blood work, urinalysis and imaging among other tests done on site to figure out the source of your symptoms.
IV Therapy: Patients experiencing dehydration caused by nausea and vomiting will receive hydration therapy.
Medications: Antibiotics, glucocorticoids, and nausea medications are prescribed when needed.
Patient Education: Tips on what to eat, how to hydrate and home remedies to better your chances of recovering from an illness
We appreciate the fact that waiting for long periods before being attended to can be inconvenient and unfriendly. This is why our staff is focused on booking your appointments with the right specialist in the shortest time possible.
Tips For Patients With Gastrointestinal Issues to Consider When In Their Own Homes
For people suffering from mild signs of gastrointestinal distress, trying the suggestions below may reduce any irritation.
- Stay Hydrated: In order to avoid dehydration, make sure you consume enough water, electrolyte drinks, or clear broths.
- Follow the BRAT Diet: The use of bananas, rice, applesauce and toast is effective when it comes to treating an upset stomach.
- Avoid Trigger Foods: Affected individuals should stay away from any fatty, spicy, or acidic food substances.
- Use Over-the-Counter Medications: Antacids, antidiarrheal medications, or laxatives are effective in providing temporary relief from most symptoms.
- Repose: Permit your body to rest and forgo any heavy physical labours.
Prevention of Gastrointestinal Problems
As the popular expression goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Below are some preventative measures to ensure proper upkeep of your tummy:
- Have a Balanced Diet: Always include some stalky vegetables, meat, and oil in your diet.
- Observe Basic Hygiene: Make it a habit to wash your hands multiple times, more so if you are about to have a meal or are cooking
- Be Physically Active: Engaging in regular exercises aids in effective digestion.
- Breathe Deeply: A lot of stress tends to ruin your overall headspace, stretching to your digestive health as well.
- Be Active: Have plenty of water on a daily basis for proper digestion and avoidance of constipation.
Figuring out whether to go to urgent care or A&E for your tummy-related problems can be difficult, but knowing how serious your general symptoms are can help in making this decision clearly. Mild to moderate troubles can be corrected by other alternative gentle solutions including those at Absolute Urgent Care Centres. If, however, one is suffering from severe/ life-threatening symptoms, the A&E can be more suitable for those patients. Focusing on your health and wellness is where our care stands to serve you at the most appropriate times possible.
