Gastrointestinal Infection

A gastrointestinal infection is any infection caused by a virus, a bacteria or a parasite, that is characterized by excessive, watery diarrhea and stomach pain. Most often a gastrointestinal infection is not serious, though many can be.

Types

• There are dozens, if not hundreds, of possible causes of gastrointestinal infections. According to KidsHealth.org, some of the more common causes include salmonella, E. coli and the Giardia parasite. Another possible cause is the common stomach flu.

Symptoms

• The primary symptom of a gastrointestinal infection is watery diarrhea. Depending on the cause, it is often accompanied with fever, nausea, a diminished sense of appetite accompanied by weight loss, vomiting and dehydration.

Treatment

• Treatment of a gastrointestinal infection is dependent on the cause. According to the Mayo Clinic, at-home treatment is effective for the stomach flu, and involves plenty of rest and hydration. In some cases, however, antibacterials, antivirals, and antiparasitics may be necessary.

Prevention

• According to KidsHealth.org, gastrointestinal infections are quite contagious and can be prevented with proper hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly. Making sure meat is properly cooked and cleaned is also important.

Prognosis

• Most infections of the gastrointestinal tract clear up on their own and without medical intervention, though some may require medication. Complications, such as stomach ulcers, can arise as well.