Stomach Infection

       Stomach Infection

Gastroenteritis is when your stomach and intestines are irritated and inflamed.

Viral gastroenteritis is an infection of your intestines that typically causes watery diarrhea, pain or cramping in your abdomen, nausea or vomiting.

Bacterial gastroenteritis is a digestive problem caused by bacteria.

Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, fever, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and pain.

In severe cases, you may become dehydrated and have an electrolyte imbalance.

Bacterial gastroenteritis is sometimes treated with antibiotics.

   Symptoms

Watery, usually nonbloody diarrhea — bloody diarrhea usually means you have a different, more severe infection.

Nausea, vomiting or both.

Low-grade fever.

Occasional muscle aches or headache.

Stomach cramps and pain.

Viral stomach flu usually lasts 12 - 60 hours, and can often be self-managed by following these guidelines, including the gastro diet. Gastroenteritis cases arising after travel may involve different organisms, bacterial, viral, parasitic, and are managed case by case depending on history.

In most cases, viral gastroenteritis is not harmful. However, viral gastroenteritis can become dangerous if it leads to dehydration. Anyone with signs or symptoms of dehydration should see a doctor right away.

A person with severe dehydration may need treatment at a hospital.

    Self care

Let your stomach settle. Stop eating solid foods for a few hours.

Ease back into eating.

Try sucking on ice chips or taking small sips of water often.

Avoid certain foods and substances until you feel better.

Get plenty of rest.

Try anti-diarrhea medications.