When experiencing gastroenteritis, some individuals may have mild symptoms that do not significantly impact their daily lives, allowing them to carry out their daily tasks as usual.
However, what if you develop severe gastroenteritis?
What are the symptoms, and what is the appropriate treatment?
In this article on evercare, we will explore everything about gastroenteritis, including its main symptoms and the causes that lead to infection.
What is Gastroenteritis?
Gastroenteritis is a condition that affects the digestive system, leading to unpleasant symptoms such as diarrhea, dehydration, thirst, and others.
It is an infection caused by viruses, parasites, or bacteria, affecting the small and large intestines, which disrupts their function and triggers symptoms due to irritation of the digestive tract.
Viruses are the most common cause of this illness, with different types affecting individuals based on age:
- Norovirus is the leading cause of gastroenteritis in adults.
- Rotavirus is the main culprit in children.
When is Gastroenteritis Considered Severe?
If gastroenteritis presents with severe symptoms, such as pus or blood in the stool, this could be a sign of a serious condition requiring strong medical intervention.
In severe cases, dehydration occurs due to significant fluid loss from the body, necessitating IV Drip Therapy fluids to restore balance.
Is There a Difference Between Gastroenteritis and Food Poisoning?
Although gastroenteritis and food poisoning share similar symptoms, they differ significantly.
Here’s how:
- Causes:
Gastroenteritis is caused by viruses (such as Rotavirus and Norovirus), bacteria (like Salmonella), or parasites (Giardia).
Food poisoning results from consuming contaminated, spoiled, or improperly cooked food.
- Symptoms:
A person suffering from gastroenteritis experiences watery diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea, and may also develop a fever along with persistent fatigue accompanied by dehydration.
On the other hand, in the case of food poisoning, symptoms include severe abdominal cramps, intense nausea and vomiting, and diarrhea, which may sometimes contain blood.
Additional symptoms may include headaches and dizziness.
Causes of Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis is a common digestive system illness that causes significant discomfort due to its symptoms.
Some key causes include:
- Weather changes, especially during the transition between seasons.
- Low secretion of liver and pancreatic enzymes.
- Consuming undercooked or raw food.
- Unripe fruits and vegetables.
- Contact with contaminated surfaces.
- Direct transmission from an infected person.
- Contaminated food with germs.
- Poor personal hygiene and lack of proper handwashing.
Additionally, gastroenteritis can be a symptom of another underlying disease, such as liver, lung, or heart conditions.
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Most Common Symptoms of Gastroenteritis
Some people mistakenly believe they have food poisoning when they have gastroenteritis due to the similarity of symptoms.
However, there are key differences that vary depending on age and whether the patient is an adult or a child.
Symptoms of Gastroenteritis in Adults
Gastroenteritis symptoms in adults typically last two to three days and may resolve on their own without medical intervention.
Despite this, the infection can cause distressing symptoms that require treatment, including:
- Diarrhea.
- Fatigue and general weakness.
- Loss of appetite.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Abdominal cramps and spasms.
- Fever.
- Body aches and muscle soreness.
Symptoms of Gastroenteritis in Children
Children may experience slightly different symptoms than adults. The most common signs include:
- Vomiting.
- Loss of appetite.
- Diarrhea.
- Weakness.
- Reduced urine output.
- Fever.
- Abdominal pain and cramps.
How to Treat Gastroenteritis
Since gastroenteritis can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites, its treatment depends on the type of causative agent.
Doctors first identify the cause before prescribing the appropriate treatment.
In cases of viral infection, the patient should take immune-boosting treatments, and the doctor may prescribe medications for diarrhea, cramps, and other symptoms.
If the infection is bacterial, antibiotics are the suitable treatment, along with a fever reducer appropriate for the case.
In the case of gastroenteritis caused by parasites, the appropriate treatment would be an antiparasitic medication.
However, to accurately determine the cause of the infection, laboratory tests must be conducted, as a clinical examination can only reveal the symptoms.
Ways to Prevent Gastroenteritis
To avoid gastroenteritis, whether mild or severe, hygiene is crucial. Prevention is always better than treatment.
Here are some important preventive measures:
- Avoid consuming raw or undercooked food.
- Maintain proper personal hygiene.
- Wash hands thoroughly and frequently.
- Only eat from trusted food sources when dining out.
- Store food correctly.
- Separate raw meat from fruits and vegetables when shopping or preparing food.
- Clean surfaces regularly with disinfectants.
- Wash raw food properly before consumption.
- Use disinfectant wipes when outside.
- Cook meat and poultry at appropriate temperatures.
- Avoid sharing personal utensils and items with others.
FAQs About Gastroenteritis
What should a person with gastroenteritis eat?
A person with gastroenteritis should consume light, boiled foods and avoid spicy and heavily seasoned meals.
Which fruits are beneficial for gastroenteritis?
Fruits that are easy on the stomach, such as watermelon, bananas, papaya, and apples, are recommended.
How long does gastroenteritis last?
The duration of gastroenteritis varies depending on severity. It typically lasts two to three days, but in some cases, it may extend longer.
