Pests are one of the most common household nuisances that can infest any home or commercial space. They can cause damage, spread diseases, and make life uncomfortable.
But did you know that pests can also affect your digestive system? Many pests can cause gut symptoms that can be painful and difficult to identify. Here are nine gut symptoms to look out for if you suspect a pest invasion:.
1. Nausea
Nausea is a feeling of discomfort in the stomach that often leads to vomiting. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including pests. Pests like rodents, cockroaches, and flies carry pathogens that can cause food poisoning and stomach infections.
These pathogens can enter your body through contaminated food or water, or through close contact with the pests themselves.
2. Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a common symptom of many stomach infections. Pests can spread pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli that can cause diarrhea, as well as other gastrointestinal problems.
Diarrhea caused by pests can be mild or severe, depending on the type of pest and the severity of the infestation.
3. Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including pests. Some pests, like rodents, can cause damage to your home’s wiring and plumbing, which can cause leaks and moisture buildup.
This environment is ideal for pests like cockroaches and termites, which can further damage your home and cause gut symptoms like abdominal pain.
4. Bloating
Bloating is the feeling of fullness and tightness in the stomach. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including a high-fiber diet, menstruation, and stress.
However, pests like rodents and cockroaches can also cause bloating by producing excessive amounts of gas that can build up in your stomach and intestines.
5. Constipation
Constipation is a common gut symptom that can be caused by a variety of factors, including dehydration, a low-fiber diet, and stress.
However, pests like rodents and cockroaches can also cause constipation by eating your food and leaving behind waste that can block your digestive system.
6. Food Intolerance
Food intolerance is the inability to digest certain foods properly. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, stress, and infections.
However, pests like rodents and cockroaches can also cause food intolerance by contaminating your food with bacteria and pathogens that can make you sick and cause gut symptoms like bloating and diarrhea.
7. Fatigue
Chronic fatigue is a common symptom of many gut disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and celiac disease.
Pests like rodents and cockroaches can also cause fatigue by disrupting your sleep and causing stress, which can lead to gut symptoms like abdominal pain and diarrhea.
8. Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss can be a sign of many gut disorders, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Pests like rodents and cockroaches can also cause weight loss by stealing your food and leaving you with inadequate nutrition.
9. Malabsorption
Malabsorption is the inability to absorb nutrients properly. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including celiac disease and bacterial overgrowth.
Pests like rodents and cockroaches can also cause malabsorption by contaminating your food with bacteria and pathogens that can damage your gut lining and hinder nutrient absorption.
So, if you are experiencing any of these gut symptoms, it is essential to identify and eliminate the pest invasion in your home. Call a pest control professional immediately to assess and treat the infestation.