Gastroenteritis, commonly known as stomach flu, is an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, including the stomach and intestines.
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Gastroenteritis Ms. Sonam S harma Asst. Professor
Definition Gastroenteritis , commonly known as stomach flu , is an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract , including the stomach and intestines . It is characterized by symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and cramps
Causes Gastroenteritis can be caused by various infectious agents, including: Viruses: Norovirus : Most common cause in adults and responsible for outbreaks in closed environments like cruise ships. Rotavirus: Leading cause in infants and young children. Adenovirus, Astrovirus : Less common but can affect children and adults .
Continue Bacteria: Escherichia coli (E. coli): Some strains produce toxins causing severe diarrhea . Salmonella: Often from contaminated food or water. Campylobacter: Usually from undercooked poultry. Shigella : Transmitted through contaminated water and food . Vibrio cholerae : Causes cholera, leading to severe watery diarrhea .
Continue Parasites : Giardia lamblia : Spread through contaminated water. Cryptosporidium: Resistant to chlorine and can be found in swimming pools. Entamoeba histolytica : Causes amebiasis , often in tropical regions .
Transmission Fecal-oral route: This is the most common route, where pathogens from fecal matter reach the mouth via contaminated food, water, or surfaces. Person-to-person contact: Particularly in environments such as daycare centers, nursing homes, and hospitals. Contaminated food and water: Poor hygiene and improper food handling can facilitate the spread .
Pathophysiology
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Symptoms Diarrhea : Often watery and can be frequent, leading to dehydration. Vomiting: Common, especially in viral gastroenteritis. Abdominal Pain and Cramps: Due to inflammation and increased intestinal motility. Fever: A sign of the body’s immune response to infection. Dehydration: Symptoms include dry mouth, decreased urine output, dizziness, and weakness .
Diagnosis Clinical Evaluation: Based on symptoms and patient history. Stool Tests: To identify the causative pathogen (bacteria, viruses, or parasites). Blood Tests: To check for dehydration and electrolyte imbalances .
Treatment Rehydration : The primary treatment, particularly oral rehydration solutions (ORS) to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. Dietary Adjustments: Bland, easy-to-digest foods such as the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) can be helpful .
Continue Medications: Antiemetics : To control vomiting (e.g., ondansetron ). Antidiarrheals : Antidiarrheals : Loperamide may be used to reduce diarrhea in non-bacterial cases . Antibiotics : Only for bacterial infections confirmed by stool tests .
Complications Severe Dehydration: Leading to electrolyte imbalances and shock, especially dangerous in infants, young children, and the elderly. Chronic Diarrhea: May occur in cases with parasitic infections or in immunocompromised individuals. Malnutrition: Particularly in prolonged cases, leading to weight loss and nutritional deficiencies .
Prevention Hand Hygiene: Regular hand washing with soap and water. Food Safety: Proper cooking, handling, and storage of food. Clean Water: Ensuring access to clean drinking water and proper sanitation facilities .
Continue Vaccination: Rotavirus vaccine for infants to prevent severe viral gastroenteritis. RotaTeq (RV5): Dosing Schedule: Three doses given at 2, 4, and 6 months of age. Rotarix (RV1): Dosing Schedule: Two doses given at 2 and 4 months of age .