General Information About Gastroenteritis
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
Commonly known as an 'intestinal infection' or 'stomach bug', it is the infection and inflammation of the lining of the stomach and small intestines by microorganisms.
The vast majority of cases are caused by viruses such as Norovirus or Rotavirus. Another cause is bacteria like Salmonella or E. Coli, which lead to food poisoning.
Sudden onset of watery diarrhea, severe abdominal cramps, vomiting, fever, muscle aches, and loss of appetite.
This disease causes the body to lose water and minerals through diarrhea and vomiting. Because babies and the elderly have low fluid tolerance, unreplaced fluid loss can lead to fatal kidney and heart problems (dehydration shock).
Generally, a physician's clinical examination is sufficient to make a diagnosis. If the diarrhea lasts for days or if there is blood in the stool, a stool analysis (stool culture) is requested to find the causative agent.
If the disease is viral, antibiotics are not used. The most important and life-saving treatment is to replenish the lost water and minerals to the body (with electrolyte powders or IV fluids). The process is eased with anti-nausea medications and probiotic supplements. If the causative agent is a bacteria, antibiotics may be used.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
