What Is Gastroenteritis?

Gastroenteritis, also known as stomach flu, can come on suddenly and fiercely. It can make you feel thoroughly drained and miserable, but it usually doesn't last too long.

Features

• Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, which includes the stomach and small and large intestines. It can be caused by a virus, bacteria or parasite. There are several types of bacteria that can cause stomach flu. A few of the most common types of bacteria include E.coli, staph and salmonella. Gastroenteritis can result from contaminated water or improperly cooked food. Anyone of any age can become infected with gastroenteritis.

Effects

• Stomach flu may come on suddenly with abdominal pain or cramps. It often begins with a fierce attack of diarrhea that may be accompanied by various other symptoms. The most commonly experienced symptoms of gastroenteritis are as follows:
  *Diarrhea
  *Vomiting
  *Loss of appetite
  *Stomach pain
  *Cramps
  *Bloating
  *Headache
  *Fatigue
  *Weakness
  *Low-grade fever

Significance

• The most common complication of gastroenteritis is dehydration. It is important to keep the body hydrated by drinking plenty of liquids. While it is important to drink water, other fluids such as Gatorade or Pedialyte for infants and toddlers are required since they can replace the electrolytes lost through vomiting and/or diarrhea.

Considerations

• Treatment consists of getting plenty of bed rest and drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid eating for a few hours. Usually anything consumed will be expelled through diarrhea or vomiting. In most cases, a person suffering from gastroenteritis will not feel like eating anyway. It is important to avoid dairy products such as milk since these will not settle well on the stomach and may make the condition worse. When the appetite returns, it is best to stick with bland foods such as crackers, rice and toast for the first few days. Gastroenteritis is not normally treated with antibiotics, but medication such as an antiemetic or anti-diarrheal medication may be prescribed. Over-the-counter medication may be taken for headache pain and fever. Gastroenteritis usually clears up in about a week.

Warning

• Viral gastroenteritis is highly contagious and can be transmitted through close contact by sharing food, eating utensils or drinks. Viral gastroenteritis can easily be spread in households or public settings such as day care facilities. Although most people recover from the condition without any complications, gastroenteritis can be more serious in infants, young children and the elderly. It is important to recognize the symptoms of dehydration listed below:
  *Excessive thirst
  *Dry mouth
  *Dark yellow urine
  *Little or no urine output
  *Weakness
  *Dizziness
  Seek medical attention when any of these symptoms arise.

Prevention/Solution

• Although it is not always avoidable, the incidences of gastroenteritis may be lowered through proper hygiene and food preparation. Preventive measures can be taken to prevent the spread of bacteria that causes conditions such as gastroenteritis. It is important to wash hands before and after preparing food and before eating. It is important to use proper bathroom hygiene and teach children to do the same.