Health and medical information

You will then be quite clear in your mind as to what the self-management of pain involves. You will see that there are six general principles and that success requires some attention to each of these. You will also see that the application of each of these principles is easy enough to master if you will just let yourself go along with the idea of it.

Reduction of the General Level of Anxiety-This is the first principle in the self-management of pain. It is essential, as anxiety increases pain. The reduction of anxiety is achieved by our understanding the nature of pain, by our facing up to and resolving conflicts which have been causing anxiety, and by the practice of relaxing mental exercises.

The Avoidance of Psychological Reactions That Increase Pain-This principle means that, whatever happens, we shall not allow ourselves to be overwhelmed by distress which is so easily induced by pain. We shall be realistic if the pain should lead us into guilty thoughts about our past shortcomings. By our attitude of mind we shall halt the feeling of fear which would only make us feel our pain more acutely. In each of these matters we gain further help by the calm engendered by the relaxing mental exercises.

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Q. I suppose everybody has suffered from an infection of the stomach and bowel system.

A. This is undoubted, for via the mouth, germs have direct access to the stomach and intestinal systems. Located on food they are quickly transmitted to the stomach and intestinal system where they multiply and produce irritation of the bowel lining, causing an increased rate of peristalsis (movement) which gives rise to abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, a fever, perspiration, chills, lack of appetite, general aches all over and headaches. Dehydration and prostration may occur quickly, especially in small children.

Q. Is this the same as food poisoning?

A. The symptoms are similar but in food poisoning germs have actually entered the food, multiplied there and produced their toxins which are then eaten. The body absorbs these and similar symptoms occur. They may be severe but are usually self-limiting.

Q. What is the best treatment?

A. In simple cases, starvation for 24-48 hours is best. Adequate fluids, such as frequent sips of cool water, or lemonade with powdered glucose D (about Vi tsp per half glass); ice blocks or chipped ice. Cool sponges will help brighten the spirits. Gradually resume normal meals but small amounts of non fatty products are best. Fats seem to aggravate the condition. Doctors sometimes prescribe anti-vomiting medication but it is usually unnecessary. Diarrhoea also may benefit from medication such as Lomotil or Imodium but this is for adults only.

Q. Aren’t some cases due to specific organisms?

A. Most of the common causes of gastro, as it is commonly called, are due to viruses, often transmitted by flies. Other types are due to certain identifiable organisms which produce dysentery, such as one named shigella. Symptoms are similar or may be more severe. Fluid replacement is necessary and certain antibiotics are effective. Medical supervision is advisable both for diagnosis and treatment.

A very severe type of bowel disorder is called botulism, rarely seen in Australia. This infects food and may produce serious symptoms which may be life-endangering. They are similar in nature to general bowel infections but may lead on to prostration, weakness and sometimes respiratory failure as the nerves are poisoned. Special anti-toxins are available.

Q. Is it advisable to seek medical help with any bowel disorder?

A. Often symptoms are mild and fairly quickly vanish. However, with any persisting symptoms, especially if associated with considerable fluid loss and abdominal pain, medical attention is essential. This is very important in babies and infants who dehydrate rapidly and may quickly reach an irreversible stage. Many years ago huge numbers died from simple gastric infections.

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Spending 40 or more hours a week sitting down and using equipment that demands repetitive actions can lead to stresses and strains, from continual backache to one of the relatively recently identified repetitive strain injuries.

A good sitting position is vital. Your feet should be flat on the floor (or on a footstool) and your back reasonably straight. If the seat is adjustable, tilting it forward a little may prove more comfortable and can encourage better posture. If the seat isn’t adjustable and the lower back is not supported, roll up a towel or use a small cushion for support. Pull the chair close to the desk to avoid leaning forward and putting strain on your back.

Any equipment you use frequently throughout the day such as files, the telephone and computer, should be easy to reach without overstretching. Constant use of the telephone – particularly if it’s cradled between the ear and shoulder – can result in tension to the neck and shoulder area.

Try to do a number of different work activities during your day, varying your posture every so often to stretch your back and relax your muscles.

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