Irritated and inflamed stomach and
intestines are the main reasons for gastroenteritis or “stomach flu”. The “flu”
is only a consequence of this disorder and hence a misnomer. The irritation and
inflammation in the stomach and intestines are generally caused by either
bacterial or a viral infection.
Symptoms
The symptoms that herald the onset of this disorder are typically watery diarrhea and vomiting. Additionally the patient may experience a slight headache, cramps or pain in the stomach / intestine areas, nausea and fever. Excessive diarrhea and vomiting can lead to dehydration. Symptoms that indicate that a person is dehydrated are:
- Dry skin
- Dry mouth
- Being really thirsty
- Light headedness
A person with all or any of these symptoms must seek
medical attention, immediately or else dehydration can lead to fatal
consequences.
Causes
A gastroenteritis disorder can spread through the
following means:
- Through food or water that is contaminated
- Having contact with somebody who already has the virus infection
- From unwashed hands after use of the washroom or after changing a diaper
Rotavirus is commonly the reason for diarrhea in
children of all ages, whereas norovirus causes serious gastroenteritis issues
and is a foodborne disease. The bacterial form of gastroenteritis is caused by E.coli
and salmonella. Both salmonella and campylobacter bacteria are spread through
undercooked poultry or eggs. Salmonella can be spread through pets and live
poultry.
Escherichia Coli or E.coli are bacteria that live in
the human and animal digestive system. E. coli bacteria are of many types and
are mostly harmless. However, there are some strains that cause bloody diarrhea
and in some virulent strains like O157:H7, can cause severe diarrhea or kidney
failure, which can ultimately lead to death. Yet other strains of E.coli
bacteria cause urinary tract infections or other types of infections. Shigella,
is one more type of bacteria commonly found in child care centers and the
source of infection is generally food and drinking water.
Giardia and cryptosporidium, parasitically conveyed
infections occur through contaminated drinking water.
Gastroenteritis can also be caused by:
- The presence of metals like, cadmium, arsenic, mercury, or lead in drinking water
- Toxins that may be there in certain seafood
- Eating acidic foods like citrus fruits and tomatoes in large volumes
- Antacids, laxatives, antibiotics and chemotherapy medications
Treatment
Options
There is no particular treatment for gastroenteritis
caused by a viral infection, as antibiotics are not effective on viruses. Care
must be taken not to overuse antibiotics as this can cause resistance to
strains of bacteria. Treatment basically comprises of self-care measures such
as:
- Intake of plenty of fluids
to keep hydrated
- Once nausea subsides,
normal diet can gradually be resumed. Begin with clear soups or broth, and
build up to more solid foods
- Temporarily avoid milk
and milk products, wheat and wheat products, as the digestive system may
still be tender and needs time to recover
- Rest in bed
In case, you do need medication, consult the doctor
for help.
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