In winter, as temperatures decline, people ‘ s lives and eating habits change, and the incidence of gastrointestinal diseases tends to increase. As a general surgeon, I am aware of the importance of gastrointestinal health for the overall health, and therefore, in the light of the characteristics of winter, I have a detailed reading of the strategy to combat gastrointestinal disease.
Winter temperatures are low and people tend to eat hot foods, such as hot pots, barbecues, etc. However, over-eating spicy, greasy and irritating foods increases the burden of gastrointestinal tracts, leading to gastrointestinal diseases such as indigestion, gastricitis and stomach ulcer. In addition, the dry winter climate, the slowing down of metabolic metabolism in the human body and the slowing of gastrointestinal creeping can also cause problems of constipation and abdominal swelling. At the same time, cold weather can also cause cold irritation to the gastrointestinal tract, causing gastrointestinal convulsions and symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhoea. In order to prevent gastrointestinal diseases in winter, we can start with the following aspects: first, a rational diet is the key. The winter diet should be based on a combination of mild supplements, reduced intake of spicy, greasy, irritant foods, and the choice of mild foods, such as mountain medicine, fish, date, etc., to supplement and protect the gastrointestinal tract. At the same time, increased consumption of fibre-rich foods, such as vegetables and fruits, can help to promote intestinal creeping and prevent constipation. Secondly, adequate water is also important. Warm water helps warm the body, promotes blood circulation and mitigates gastrointestinal discomfort. At the same time, warm water enhances intestinal creeping, promotes defecation and prevents constipation. Moreover, warmth and cold must not be overlooked. Care should be taken to keep the abdomen warm, to avoid wearing too thin or exposed abdomen and to prevent cold irritation of the gastrointestinal tract. Finally, maintaining regularity is an important means of preventing gastrointestinal disease. It is important to eat on time, to avoid heavy or excessive diets, to ensure sufficient sleep time and to facilitate the repair and restoration of the gastrointestinal tract.
In terms of diagnosis and treatment, as general surgeons, we conduct medical history inquiries, medical examinations, visual examinations, laboratory examinations, etc. according to the patient ‘ s specific circumstances. A preliminary assessment of the condition can be made by taking into account the results of the medical examination, with information on the eating habits, living habits and pain characteristics of the patient. Visual examinations, such as ultrasound, CT, MRI, can clearly show the structure and morphology of the gastrointestinal tract, and can help to detect the shape and nature of the pathogen. Laboratory examinations assess the functional state of the gastrointestinal tract by testing the relevant indicators in samples such as blood, urine and faeces, and timely detection of inflammation, infections, etc.
Drug treatment is the preferred option for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. Medicines such as acids, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs can be selected for treatment depending on the condition. At the same time, attention should be paid to the side effects of drugs and taboos and to avoiding drug abuse. Some serious gastrointestinal diseases, such as stomach perforation, enteric infarction, etc., may require surgical treatment. Depending on the patient’s specific circumstances, we will choose the appropriate procedure to ensure its safety and effectiveness.
In terms of rehabilitation and self-management, patients need to pay attention to dietary adjustment, adequate exercise, psychological adjustment and periodic review. Dietary adjustment avoids the consumption of highly irritating and indigestionable foods and selects fresh, digestive and nutritious foods. An appropriate amount of motion can facilitate the corrosive and digestive gestation of the gastrointestinal tract and improve the gastrointestinal function. Psychological adjustment should maintain a positive mindset and avoid the effects of negative sentiments such as excessive anxiety and depression. Regular review allows for timely information on the evolution of the condition, adjusts the treatment programme and ensures its effectiveness.
However, the fight against gastrointestinal diseases in winter requires a combination of preventive measures such as a reasonable diet, a proper amount of drinking water, heating and cooling, and treatment methods such as medical history inquiries, visual examinations, laboratory examinations, drug treatment and surgical treatment. At the same time, the patient needs to pay attention to dietary adjustment, appropriate exercise, psychological adjustment and periodic review during rehabilitation. It is only through the comprehensive and scientific management of gastrointestinal health that it will be possible to protect its own gastrointestinal tracts during this cold season.
