Gastroenteritis Symptoms, Causes and Management

 

Gastroenteritis, commonly known as the stomach flu or a stomach bug, is typically caused by viral or bacterial infections. A wide range of gastroenteritis symptoms may be experienced by patients and prompt management and care proves crucial in ensuring that this condition is overcome in the best possible manner. Know more about this disease by logging into DocTube.

The most common causes of gastroenteritis include:

i) Viruses

Norovirus, rotavirus and adenovirus are the primary viral causes of gastroenteritis. They can spread through contaminated food, water or close contact with an infected person.

ii) Bacteria

Bacterial infections can be caused by organisms such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Shigella or Campylobacter. These bacteria are often transmitted through contaminated food, water or poor hygiene practices.

iii) Parasites

Parasitic infections, such as Giardia or Cryptosporidium, can also lead to gastroenteritis (Inns, T., Wilson, D., Manley, P., Harris, J.P., O’Brien, S.J. and Vivancos, R., 2020. What proportion of care home outbreaks are caused by norovirus? An analysis of viral causes of gastroenteritis outbreaks in care homes, North East England, 2016–2018. BMC Infectious Diseases, 20, pp.1-8). These parasites are commonly found in contaminated water sources.

Symptoms of Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis symptoms usually include the following: 

i) Diarrhea

Loose or watery stools, often accompanied by an increased frequency of bowel movements are common symptoms of gastroenteritis.

ii) Abdominal pain and cramps

Pain or cramps in the abdominal region are common gastroenteritis symptoms, that may often result from intestinal inflammation (Desselberger, U. and Gray, J., 2009. Viral gastroenteritis. Medicine, 37(11), pp.594-598).

iii) Nausea and vomiting

Feeling nauseous or vomiting may occur, especially in the early stages of gastroenteritis. 

iv) Fatigue and weakness

Gastroenteritis can cause feelings of tiredness and overall weakness as these are other common symptoms of gastroenteritis.

v) Fever

A mild to moderate fever may be present, particularly in bacterial or viral infections (Sattar, S.B.A. and Singh, S., 2018. Bacterial gastroenteritis).

Gastroenteritis symptoms if not properly managed or if complications arise, can lead to several potential complications, including:

i) Dehydration

One of the most common complications of gastroenteritis is dehydration. Gastroenteritis symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting can cause significant fluid loss, leading to imbalances in electrolytes and dehydration. Severe dehydration can be especially dangerous for young children, older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems.

ii) Electrolyte Imbalance

The loss of fluids and electrolytes through diarrhea and vomiting can disrupt the body's electrolyte balance, including levels of sodium, potassium and chloride (Tam, C.C., O’Brien, S.J., Tompkins, D.S., Bolton, F.J., Berry, L., Dodds, J., Choudhury, D., Halstead, F., Iturriza-Gómara, M., Mather, K. and Rait, G., 2012. Changes in causes of acute gastroenteritis in the United Kingdom over 15 years: microbiologic findings from 2 prospective, population-based studies of infectious intestinal disease. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 54(9), pp.1275-1286). Electrolyte imbalances can lead to weakness, fatigue, muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat and other complications.

iii) Malnutrition

Prolonged or severe gastroenteritis can interfere with the absorption of nutrients from the intestines, leading to malnutrition. This is particularly concerning in children, as it can impact their growth and development.

iv) Kidney Problems

In some cases, severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances can put a strain on the kidneys, leading to kidney dysfunction or acute kidney injury.

v) Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome

Certain strains of bacteria, such as Escherichia coli can cause a complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome. HUS is characterized by the destruction of red blood cells, low platelet count, and kidney damage. It is more common in children and can be life-threatening.

vi) Chronic Gastrointestinal Issues

In rare cases, gastroenteritis can lead to long-term gastrointestinal issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome or post-infectious functional gastrointestinal disorders. These conditions can cause persistent symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating and altered bowel habits even after the infection has resolved.

Management of Gastroenteritis

While gastroenteritis often resolves on its own within a few days, the following management strategies can help alleviate symptoms and promote recovery:

i) Fluid replacement

It is crucial to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, electrolyte-rich solutions, clear broths and oral rehydration solutions. This helps replace lost fluids and electrolytes due to diarrhea and vomiting.

ii) Rest

Getting adequate rest allows the body to recover and regain strength.

iii) Medications

Over-the-counter medications, including anti-nausea and anti-diarrheal medications, offer relief from gastroenteritis symptoms. One must however consult doctors before taking such medicines and this is especially important for children as well as in people having underlying health conditions.   

iv) Good hygiene practices 

Practicing proper hand hygiene, including regular handwashing with soap and water, is crucial to prevent the spread of gastroenteritis. Thoroughly cooking food and maintaining proper food storage and handling are also important to prevent bacterial contamination. 

v) Seek medical attention

 In severe cases or if symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to take the advice of a doctor for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment (Wilhelmi, I., Roman, E. and Sanchez-Fauquier, A., 2003. Viruses causing gastroenteritis. Clinical microbiology and infection, 9(4), pp.247-262). This is especially important for vulnerable populations such as young children, older adults, or individuals with weakened immune systems.

Prevention is key in reducing the risk of gastroenteritis. Practicing good hygiene, proper food safety and avoiding contact with individuals who have the infection can help prevent its spread. 

 

How to manage electrolyte imbalance due to gastroenteritis?

 

   

To manage electrolyte imbalance due to gastroenteritis, it is important to drink plenty of water, consume IV fluids like sodium chloride and IV medicines for restoring a healthy electrolyte balance.

 

 

What are some of the best ways to cure gastroenteritis?

 

   

To cure gastroenteritis, drink plenty of fluids, take paracetamol for any kind of fever and aches, get adequate rest and focus on an appropriate diet.