A viral gastroenteritis, or stomach flu, is an intestinal infection characterized by inflammation in the stomach and intestines. It is typically caused by a variety of viruses and is highly contagious. Here's a straightforward breakdown of its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention methods.
It is highly contagious and spreads easily through contaminated food, water, or surfaces, as well as person-to-person contact. Norovirus is one of the most common causes of viral gastroenteritis in adults.
Rotavirus causes viral gastroenteritis in infants and young children. It spreads through fecal-oral transmission, often in childcare centers and other places where children have close contact.
Certain strains of adenovirus can cause gastroenteritis, especially in young children. They can spread through respiratory droplets, fecal-oral transmission, or contact with contaminated objects.
Children are more likely to become infected with astrviruses due to fecal-oral transmission, contaminated food or water, or close contact with infected people.
Viral gastroenteritis can also be caused by viruses such as enterovirus, sapovirus, and certain strains of Coronavirus.
The most common symptom of viral gastroenteritis is diarrhea. It may be accompanied by abdominal cramps, bloating, or discomfort.
It is common for individuals with viral gastroenteritis to experience nausea followed by vomiting. If fluids are not replaced adequately, these symptoms can lead to dehydration.
A mild fever may accompany viral gastroenteritis, especially in children. Fever usually resolves within a few days.
Diarrhea and vomiting that is severe or prolonged can lead to dehydration, which is characterized by symptoms such as dry mouth, decreased urine output, thirst, and fatigue.
Depending on the virus causing the infection, some people may also experience headaches, muscle aches, or mild respiratory symptoms (such as a cough or runny nose).
Symptoms, medical history, and physical examination are typically used to diagnose viral gastroenteritis. Laboratory tests may be necessary in some cases, but are not always necessary:
To assess the likelihood of viral gastroenteritis, healthcare providers will ask about symptoms, recent travel, dietary habits, and possible exposure to sick individuals.
Dehydration, abdominal tenderness, or other symptoms suggestive of gastroenteritis can be detected during a physical examination.
In some cases, a stool sample may be collected and tested for the presence of viral particles, bacterial pathogens, or other indicators of infection. Unless there is an outbreak investigation or severe cases that require hospitalization, specific viral testing is not routinely performed.
If the cause of gastroenteritis is unclear or an outbreak investigation is warranted, laboratory tests such as viral culture or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) may be used to identify specific viral pathogens in stool samples.
Viral gastroenteritis is treated by relieving symptoms, preventing dehydration, and supporting recovery:
It is important to drink plenty of fluids during diarrhea and vomiting to avoid dehydration. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) containing electrolytes and glucose are recommended for children and those at high risk of dehydration.
A number of over-the-counter medications might help alleviate symptoms, including anti-diarrheals (e.g., loperamide) and anti-nausea medicines (e.g., dimenhydrinate). However, these medications should be used with caution and under medical supervision, especially in children.
Nutrition and rest: Eating bland, easily digestible foods such as bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast can soothe a sore stomach and promote recovery.
During recovery, it is beneficial to avoid spicy, fatty, or acidic foods, as well as caffeine and alcohol.
In severe cases of viral gastroenteritis, particularly in infants, young children, or individuals with underlying health conditions, medical monitoring and supportive care in a hospital setting may be required to prevent complications.
Viral gastroenteritis can be prevented by practicing good hand hygiene, including frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Using proper food handling and preparation practices can reduce the risk of foodborne infections, such as washing fruits and vegetables, cooking foods thoroughly, and avoiding cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods.
It is important to keep surfaces and objects clean and disinfected, especially in shared or high-traffic areas, in order to prevent the spread of gastroenteritis viruses.
Reduce the risk of transmission by avoiding close contact with people with gastroenteritis or symptoms such as diarrhea or vomiting.
Individuals who are susceptible to viral gastroenteritis may benefit from vaccination against specific viral pathogens such as rotavirus (for infants) or norovirus (for certain populations).
