Viral gastroenteritis
Viral Gastroenteritis
Viral gastroenteritis (pronunciation: /ˌvaɪrəl ˌɡæstroʊɪntɛrˈaɪtɪs/), also known as the stomach flu, is an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract that is caused by a virus.
Etymology
The term "gastroenteritis" is derived from the Greek words "gastro-" (stomach), "-entero-" (intestine), and "-itis" (inflammation). The prefix "viral" indicates that the condition is caused by a virus.
Symptoms
Symptoms of viral gastroenteritis include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In some cases, the patient may also experience fever, headache, and muscle aches.
Causes
Viral gastroenteritis is caused by several types of viruses, including norovirus, rotavirus, adenovirus, and astrovirus. These viruses are often spread through contaminated food or water, or through close contact with an infected person.
Treatment
Treatment for viral gastroenteritis primarily involves managing symptoms and preventing dehydration. This may include drinking plenty of fluids, eating a bland diet, and taking over-the-counter medications to help manage nausea and diarrhea. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.
Prevention
Prevention of viral gastroenteritis involves practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly and thoroughly, especially before eating and after using the toilet. Vaccines are also available for some types of viruses that cause gastroenteritis, such as rotavirus.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Viral gastroenteritis
- Wikipedia's article - Viral gastroenteritis
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