Viral gastroenteritis, also known as the stomach flu, causes severe stomach cramps and diarrhea. It can be contracted through contaminated food or water, or direct contact with an infected person. Symptoms can be treated at home with rest and fluids, but severe cases require medical attention. There is no cure, but medication can help manage symptoms.
Viral gastroenteritis is an infection that causes severe stomach cramps and diarrhea. Also called the stomach flu, a viral gastroenteritis infection can result from ingesting contaminated food or water or from direct contact with an infectious person. Symptoms can be bothersome, but gastroenteritis doesn’t usually cause serious health complications. It’s important to stay hydrated, rest, and see a doctor if problems worsen or symptoms persist for more than a week.
Many different infectious viruses can cause gastroenteritis, but the most common agents are strains of rotavirus and norovirus. Food and water contaminated with feces can carry the virus directly to the gastrointestinal tract, leading to immediate and severe symptoms. It is also possible to contract a virus by kissing an infected person or by sharing utensils and toiletries. Children and the elderly are at the highest risk of infection due to their weak immune systems, but otherwise healthy adults also regularly succumb to the disease.
Nonbloody diarrhea is the most prominent symptom of viral gastroenteritis. A person typically experiences several dozen bouts of diarrhea a day for the first two to three days of infection. Abdominal pain, cramping, nausea and vomiting are also common, and some people experience headaches, joint pain and fever. Dehydration is possible with frequent diarrhea and vomiting, which can make an individual feel very weak and possibly bedridden.
Relatively mild attacks of viral gastroenteritis can usually be treated at home with rest and adequate fluid intake. Water and sports drinks can help prevent dehydration and replenish nutrients lost due to diarrhea and vomiting. Also, taking over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs can help reduce symptoms. Most people start feeling better within about a week of the onset of symptoms.
Emergency medical attention should be sought for infants and patients with severe and persistent symptoms of viral gastroenteritis. Doctors can check for signs of dehydration and provide intravenous fluids when needed. Blood and stool tests can confirm the presence of a particular virus and help doctors determine the best course of treatment.
There is no medical cure for viral gastroenteritis, and medications are usually ineffective at shortening the duration of the illness, but some medications can be used to make symptoms more manageable during recovery. A critically ill patient may need to stay in the hospital for several days or weeks so that doctors can monitor recovery and take preventive quarantine measures against the chances of a gastroenteritis outbreak.
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