Acute Gastroenteritis
Acute Gastroenteritis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment and Complications
Gastroenteritis, also referred to as “stomach flu,” is an human illness that affects the digestive tract. It is typically caused by a virus, however, other causes include bacterial infections and food allergies. Young children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems are at the highest risk for developing gastroenteritis.
Gastroenteritis causes an inflammation of the stomach and intestines which is accompanied by signs and symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramping, vomiting or nausea, and occasionally, fever. When a person has abdominal cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea that last for more than three days, they may be suffering from acute gastroenteritis.
Symptoms
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Watery diarrhea
- Abdominal cramping
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Low-grade fever
- Fatigue
Causes and Risk Factors
Gastroenteritis is commonly caused by viruses, such as rotaviruses, adenoviruses, and noroviruses. Bacterial such as E. coli and salmonella can also cause acute gastroenteritis. Other less common causes include campylobacter, shigella, and yersinia. Also, certain medications such as antibiotics, and food allergies can cause the condition as well.
Individuals who put their immune systems at risk by engaging in unsanitary behaviors (sexual contact, shared drug needles, etc.) or people who travel to unfamiliar countries are more likely to fall victim to acute gastroenteritis.
Diagnosis
To diagnose acute gastroenteritis, the doctor will focus on the patient's signs and symptoms, medical history, and physical examination. The doctor may also request that the patient provide a stool sample for laboratory analysis. This will help to determine if the symptom is viral or bacterial.
Treatment
The primary treatment for acute gastroenteritis is to focus on replacing lost electrolytes and fluids. This is typically done through oral rehydration solutions (ORS). In some cases, the healthcare provider may request that the patient receive intravenous fluids. Antidiarrheal medications may also be recommended.
Patients should seek medical attention if they experience multiple episodes of vomiting and any of the following signs or symptoms:
- Dehydration
- Blood in the stools
- High fever (101 F or greater)
- Severe abdominal pain
- Persistent vomiting
Complications
While acute gastroenteritis typically resolves on its own, it does have the potential to cause various complications. These include dehydration, fever, and bloody diarrhea. In rare cases, patients may develop a life-threatening condition called hemolytic-uremic syndrome.