Gastroenteritis, also referred to as the stomach flu, is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Symptoms related to gastroenteritis include nausea and vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain, according to the Merck Manual of Medical Information. Preventing gastroenteritis depends on the mode of infection, but proper hand washing after using the bathroom and before eating is helpful in preventing the spread of the infection. Individuals acquire an acute gastroenteritis infection my coming into contact with infected stool, from bacteria in undercooked meats and from contaminated water.
Viruses
The most-common cause for an acute gastroenteritis infection is from a virus. Multiple viruses can cause the infection. Generally, the two main types of viruses that cause gastroenteritis include the rotavirus and the norovirus. The rotavirus commonly affects children between 3 and 15 months of age, according to the Merck Manual, whereas, the norovirus affects school-age children and adults. Both viruses transmit from the oral-fecal route. The rotavirus spreads as a wave through the United States starting in the southwest portion of the country in the fall and ending in the northeast section by spring. The symptoms begin within one to two days from the start of the infection, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Treatment for viral gastroenteritis includes preventing dehydration by increasing fluid intake and rest.
Bacteria
Bacterial infections can cause gastroenteritis. Common bacteria that cause acute gastroenteritis include E. coli, Campylobacter jejuni, Samonella and Shigella, according to Medline Plus. The bacteria enter the body through contaminated food and water. Eating undercooked or raw meats, individuals handling foods without using proper hand washing, and water coming from a source contaminated with animal or human waste are ways for bacteria to enter the body through eating and drinking.
Once the bacteria enter the digestive tract, in addition to nausea and vomiting, they may cause sores that bleed and cause bloody diarrhea. Symptoms begin within 12 to 36 hours from the time of contamination, according to the Merck Manual. Treatment for bacterial gastroenteritis includes increasing fluids to prevent dehydration and avoiding solid foods until the diarrhea clears. Severe cases of diarrhea may require antibiotic therapy.
Parasites and Chemicals
Parasites such as Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium parvum can cause acute gastroenteritis. The parasites get into the body through contaminated water. Chemicals may also cause acute gastroenteritis for individuals who ingest the toxins. Common chemical toxins that cause the condition include poisonous mushrooms and heavy metals such as lead, arsenic and mercury. Drinking fluids and getting adequate rest help treat the condition.
