Gastroenteritis, often called the stomach flu, is when the lining of your intestines gets inflamed, usually because you’ve consumed contaminated food or water. This often results in symptoms like watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain or cramps.
This condition is quite common, especially during the fall and winter months from November to March. In fact, about 1 in 6 Americans experience it each year due to consuming contaminated foods. Thankfully, there are several treatments available to help manage and reduce the symptoms, as well as shorten the infection’s duration.
The symptoms of gastroenteritis tend to start suddenly and can include a variety of issues. Most of the time, these symptoms are mild and can be managed at home with proper rest. However, the illness can sometimes lead to severe dehydration, which can be especially concerning for certain groups like older adults, infants, or those with underlying health conditions.
The primary cause of gastroenteritis is eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water, with viral infections being the most common culprit. However, bacterial and parasitic infections can also trigger the illness.
In many cases, you can manage gastroenteritis at home by resting and staying hydrated. But if your symptoms persist, it might be a good idea to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis. They will likely perform a physical exam, ask about your medical history, and might conduct additional tests to confirm the diagnosis.
There isn’t a specific treatment just for gastroenteritis, but healthcare providers can suggest a combination of remedies to alleviate your symptoms. These options may include rest, rehydration, and medication to ease discomfort.
Fortunately, it’s possible to prevent gastroenteritis by following certain strategies such as maintaining good hygiene and being cautious with food and water sources.
While it’s typically a mild condition, dehydration is the most common complication associated with gastroenteritis. If you become dehydrated, it’s important to drink more fluids. Severe dehydration, if left untreated, can lead to more serious health issues.
Most people recover from gastroenteritis within a few days without major complications. However, individuals like older adults, pregnant people, and those with other health issues might experience more severe or prolonged symptoms. Getting enough rest and drinking plenty of fluids are key ways to alleviate symptoms. If these don’t help, talking to a healthcare provider about further options is recommended.
The main culprit behind gastroenteritis’s symptoms is usually viral infections, with norovirus being a significant cause. Despite being uncomfortable, the symptoms can be managed and the illness’s duration reduced by getting adequate rest, hydrating well, and using medications as needed.
