Gastroenteritis is a common condition that affects many people around the world. It is characterized by inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, causing unpleasant symptoms. Although it is usually a mild and self-limiting disease, it can be uncomfortable and debilitating, especially in more severe cases.
In this complete guide, we will cover everything you need to know to deal with gastroenteritis in the right way. Read the full post now!
What is gastroenteritis?
This is an inflammatory condition that affects the gastrointestinal tract, including the stomach and small intestine. It is commonly known as “stomach infection” or “food poisoning”.
This condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including viruses, bacteria, or parasites, as well as the ingestion of food or water contaminated with toxins.
When someone develops this problem, the tissues of the gastrointestinal tract become inflamed, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes fever.
The symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the underlying cause of the gastroenteritis and the overall health of the affected individual.
It is important to understand that the disease in question is not a single condition, but rather a generic term used to describe inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.
There are different types of gastroenteritis, each with its own specific causes.
In the following topics, we will explore in more detail the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of the disease.
Causes of gastroenteritis
The causes of this condition can vary, but are generally related to the presence of infectious agents in the gastrointestinal tract.
The main causative agents include viruses, bacteria, and parasites. Here are some of the most common causes:
Virus
Viruses are one of the main causes, especially in cases of viral gastroenteritis.
Norovirus and rotavirus are the most common viruses associated with this type of problem.
They are highly contagious and can spread easily from person to person, through direct contact or by consuming contaminated food or water.
Bacteria
Various bacteria can trigger bacterial gastroenteritis.
Among the most common are Salmonella, Escherichia coli (E. coli), Campylobacter, and Shigella.
Food poisoning is one of the main ways these bacteria are transmitted, occurring when foods are handled or stored improperly.
Parasites
Some parasites can cause this disease when ingested.
Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium are examples of parasites that can contaminate drinking water and cause intestinal infections.
In addition, the condition can also be triggered by other causes, such as food poisoning due to the ingestion of foods contaminated by bacterial toxins, food allergies, medications, environmental toxins, or adverse reactions to certain foods.
It is important to note that this problem can occur in anyone, regardless of age or health condition, although young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to serious complications.
Understanding the causes is crucial for preventing the disease and taking the appropriate measures to treat it when necessary.
Symptoms of gastroenteritis
The symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, depending on the underlying cause of the disease and individual characteristics.
Here are the most common symptoms associated with the disease:
Nausea and vomiting
The feeling of nausea, often followed by vomiting, is one of the most characteristic symptoms of the condition.
These symptoms can occur due to irritation of the lining of the stomach and small intestine.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is another common manifestation of the problem.
It usually presents as frequent and liquid stools, and may be accompanied by abdominal cramps.
Abdominal pain
Many people with gastroenteritis report having abdominal pain, which can range from mild to intense.
This pain is usually described as cramping or a feeling of discomfort in the stomach area.
Fever
In some cases, the condition can cause fever, especially if it is caused by a bacterial infection.
Fever is a response of the body to the presence of infectious agents, and can vary in intensity.
Dehydration
Excessive loss of fluids due to diarrhea and vomiting can lead to dehydration, especially in more severe cases.
Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, dark urine, and decreased urine output.
Weakness and fatigue
The condition can cause weakness and fatigue due to the loss of essential fluids and nutrients. These symptoms can affect a person’s ability to perform normal daily activities.
It is important to note that not all people with the disease will have all these symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can vary from person to person.
In general, symptoms usually last a few days and go away on their own.
However, in cases of severe or persistent symptoms, it is important to seek medical guidance to receive appropriate treatment and prevent complications.
Diagnosis and treatment of gastroenteritis
The diagnosis of the condition is usually made based on symptoms, physical examination, and in specific cases, laboratory tests such as stool analysis and blood tests.
Treatment includes adequate hydration, rest, and in some cases, medications to control nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Antibiotics may be prescribed if the disease is caused by a bacterial infection, but their use is judicious due to the risk of bacterial resistance, and should always be indicated by a specialist.
In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary, especially in young children, the elderly, or people with weakened immune systems.
It is essential to follow medical advice and seek help if symptoms persist or worsen.
Prevention tips for gastroenteritis
Preventing the disease involves simple, but important, practices to avoid contamination by infectious agents.
Here are some useful tips to prevent the condition:
– Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially before preparing food, before eating, after using the bathroom, and after caring for someone who is sick.
– Wash raw foods well and cook foods thoroughly, especially meats, poultry, and seafood. Avoid cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods to prevent cross-contamination.
– Consume safe drinking water and avoid drinking water from unknown or untreated sources.
– Clean and disinfect surfaces that come into contact with food.
By following these simple tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of contracting the disease and protect your and your family’s health.
However, if you develop symptoms, it is important to seek medical guidance to receive appropriate treatment and prevent the spread of the disease to others.
When to seek medical help for gastroenteritis?
When it comes to this problem, knowing when to seek medical help is essential to ensure a quick recovery and avoid complications.
There are some situations where it is important to seek medical guidance immediately.
One of them is dehydration. This condition is especially concerning in young children and the elderly, whose bodies may have difficulty replenishing lost fluids.
Additionally, if symptoms are severe, such as high fever, presence of blood in the stool, persistent vomiting, intense abdominal pains, or extreme weakness, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.
These signs may indicate serious complications that require evaluation and specialized treatment.
If symptoms persist for several days without improvement, or worsen over time, it is also advisable to seek medical guidance to ensure an appropriate approach to the situation.
This is especially important for people in risk groups, such as those with weakened immune systems, young children, and the elderly, as well as individuals with underlying medical conditions.
Being aware of the warning signs and knowing when to seek medical help are essential steps in managing gastroenteritis.
This guide has covered everything from causes and symptoms to diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of the disease. By adopting preventive measures and seeking medical guidance when necessary, you can significantly reduce the impact of gastroenteritis on your health and well-being.
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Doutor em Gastroenterologia pela FM-USP.
Especialista em Cirurgia do Aparelho Digestivo (HCFMUSP), Endoscopia Digestiva (SOBED) e Gastroenterologia (FBG).
Professor do curso de Medicina da Fundação Educacional do Município de Assis - FEMA.
Médico da clínica Gastrosaúde de Marília.