Gastroenteritis

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Gastroenteritis
File:Gastroenteritis viruses.jpg
Synonyms Stomach flu, gastro, gastritis
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever
Complications Dehydration, electrolyte imbalance
Onset 1–3 days after exposure
Duration Typically less than 2 weeks
Types N/A
Causes Viruses, bacteria, parasites, toxins
Risks Young children, elderly, immunocompromised
Diagnosis Based on symptoms, stool culture
Differential diagnosis Inflammatory bowel disease, appendicitis, food poisoning
Prevention Hand washing, safe food handling, vaccination
Treatment Oral rehydration therapy, IV fluids, antibiotics (if bacterial)
Medication Antiemetics, antidiarrheals
Prognosis Generally good with treatment
Frequency 3 to 5 billion cases per year globally
Deaths Approximately 1.3 million per year


File:Gastroenteritis.jpg
Gastroenteritis

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]

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]

Common symptoms of gastroenteritis include[5]:

Diagnosis[edit]

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]

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]

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]

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]

  1. ↑ Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu)(link). {{{website}}}. Mayo Clinic.
  2. ↑ Stomach Flu vs. Seasonal Flu(link). {{{website}}}. CDC.
  3. ↑ Gastroenteritis(link). {{{website}}}. World Health Organization.
  4. ↑ Gastroenteritis(link). {{{website}}}. Healthline.
  5. ↑ Gastroenteritis(link). {{{website}}}. NHS.
  6. ↑ Gastroenteritis: What You Should Know(link). {{{website}}}. WebMD.
  7. ↑ Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu) - Diagnosis and treatment(link). {{{website}}}. Mayo Clinic.
  8. ↑ Gastroenteritis(link). {{{website}}}. Healthline.
  9. ↑ Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu) - Diagnosis and treatment(link). {{{website}}}. Mayo Clinic.
  10. ↑ Preventing Dehydration from Diarrhea(link). {{{website}}}. CDC.
  11. ↑ Gastroenteritis(link). {{{website}}}. Healthline.
  12. ↑ Gastroenteritis: What You Should Know(link). {{{website}}}. WebMD.
  13. ↑ Gastroenteritis(link). {{{website}}}. World Health Organization.
  14. ↑ Preventing Rotavirus(link). {{{website}}}. CDC.
  15. ↑ Food Safety Basics(link). {{{website}}}. USDA.
  16. ↑ Travelers' Health: Drinking Water(link). {{{website}}}. CDC.
  17. ↑ Food and Water Safety(link). {{{website}}}. CDC.
  18. ↑ Gastroenteritis(link). {{{website}}}. World Health Organization.
  19. ↑ Gastroenteritis(link). {{{website}}}. Healthline.
  20. ↑ Water, Sanitation and Hygiene(link). {{{website}}}. UNICEF.

External links[edit]

Rotavirus – CDC Norovirus – CDC Diarrhoeal Diseases – World Health Organization

See also[edit]

Inflammatory bowel disease Irritable bowel syndrome Food poisoning

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