Gastroenteritis
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]:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Dehydration
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]
- ↑ "Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu)". Mayo Clinic. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
- ↑ "Stomach Flu vs. Seasonal Flu". CDC. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
- ↑ "Gastroenteritis". World Health Organization. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
- ↑ "Gastroenteritis". Healthline. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
- ↑ "Gastroenteritis". NHS. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
- ↑ "Gastroenteritis: What You Should Know". WebMD. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
- ↑ "Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu) - Diagnosis and treatment". Mayo Clinic. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
- ↑ "Gastroenteritis". Healthline. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
- ↑ "Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu) - Diagnosis and treatment". Mayo Clinic. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
- ↑ "Preventing Dehydration from Diarrhea". CDC. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
- ↑ "Gastroenteritis". Healthline. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
- ↑ "Gastroenteritis: What You Should Know". WebMD. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
- ↑ "Gastroenteritis". World Health Organization. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
- ↑ "Preventing Rotavirus". CDC. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
- ↑ "Food Safety Basics". USDA. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
- ↑ "Travelers' Health: Drinking Water". CDC. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
- ↑ "Food and Water Safety". CDC. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
- ↑ "Gastroenteritis". World Health Organization. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
- ↑ "Gastroenteritis". Healthline. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
- ↑ "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
Gastroenteritis Resources | ||
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