Gastroenteritis

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Inflammation of the stomach and intestines; can be caused by Salmonella enteritidis. Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), involving both the stomach and the small intestine[1]. It is commonly known as the stomach flu or gastric flu, although it is not caused by the influenza virus[2]. Gastroenteritis can be caused by viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections, and its symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and fever[3].

Causes[edit | edit source]

Gastroenteritis can be caused by several factors[4]:

Viral infections: Most common cause of gastroenteritis, responsible for 50%-70% of cases. Common viruses include:

Bacterial infections: Some common bacteria causing gastroenteritis include:

Parasitic infections: Less common, but some parasites causing gastroenteritis are:

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Common symptoms of gastroenteritis include[5]:

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Gastroenteritis is typically diagnosed based on a patient's symptoms and medical history [6]. In some cases, further tests may be necessary, such as: Stool test: Helps identify the specific virus, bacteria, or parasite causing gastroenteritis[7]. Blood test: May be used to check for dehydration or other complications[8].

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for gastroenteritis primarily focuses on managing symptoms and preventing dehydration[9]. This includes:

  • Rehydration: Drinking water, clear liquids, and oral rehydration solutions to replace lost fluids and electrolytes[10].
  • Rest: Giving the body time to recover.
  • Medication: Over-the-counter medications may help alleviate symptoms, such as anti-diarrheal agents or antipyretics for fever. Antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial infections, but are not effective against viral infections[11].
  • Diet: Gradually reintroducing bland foods, such as bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (BRAT diet), as symptoms improve[12].

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Preventive measures to reduce the risk of gastroenteritis include[13]:

Handwashing: Regular and thorough handwashing with soap and water, particularly before preparing or consuming food, and after using the toilet. Vaccination: Vaccines are available for some viruses, such as rotavirus[14]. Food safety: Proper food handling, preparation, and storage to prevent contamination and bacterial growth[15].

Water safety: Ensuring access to safe drinking water and avoiding consumption of contaminated water[16]. Travel precautions: Taking extra care with food and water while traveling, particularly in regions with lower sanitation standards[17].

Epidemiology[edit | edit source]

Gastroenteritis is a common illness worldwide, affecting millions of people each year[18]. It is particularly prevalent in developing countries with limited access to clean water and proper sanitation facilities[19]. Children under the age of 5 are at the highest risk for severe complications and death due to gastroenteritis[20].

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu)". Mayo Clinic. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  2. ↑ "Stomach Flu vs. Seasonal Flu". CDC. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  3. ↑ "Gastroenteritis". World Health Organization. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  4. ↑ "Gastroenteritis". Healthline. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  5. ↑ "Gastroenteritis". NHS. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  6. ↑ "Gastroenteritis: What You Should Know". WebMD. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  7. ↑ "Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu) - Diagnosis and treatment". Mayo Clinic. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  8. ↑ "Gastroenteritis". Healthline. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  9. ↑ "Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu) - Diagnosis and treatment". Mayo Clinic. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  10. ↑ "Preventing Dehydration from Diarrhea". CDC. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  11. ↑ "Gastroenteritis". Healthline. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  12. ↑ "Gastroenteritis: What You Should Know". WebMD. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  13. ↑ "Gastroenteritis". World Health Organization. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  14. ↑ "Preventing Rotavirus". CDC. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  15. ↑ "Food Safety Basics". USDA. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  16. ↑ "Travelers' Health: Drinking Water". CDC. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  17. ↑ "Food and Water Safety". CDC. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  18. ↑ "Gastroenteritis". World Health Organization. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  19. ↑ "Gastroenteritis". Healthline. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  20. ↑ "Water, Sanitation and Hygiene". UNICEF. Retrieved 2021-08-20.

External links[edit | edit source]

Rotavirus – CDC Norovirus – CDC Diarrhoeal Diseases – World Health Organization

See also[edit | edit source]

Inflammatory bowel disease Irritable bowel syndrome Food poisoning

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD