What is gastroenteritis (stomach infection)?

Gastroenteritis (Stomach Infection)

What is gastroenteritis?

Gastroenteritis is an upset stomach. It causes nausea and vomiting. You may also have diarrhea or a fever. It is sometimes called "stomach flu," but it is not the flu. Germs like viruses and bacteria can cause it.

You can catch it from someone else who has it, or you can get it from food poisoning. Food poisoning can happen if you eat foods that contain harmful germs. Germs can get into food while the food is growing, during processing, or when it is prepared. You may have become ill after eating meat or eggs that weren't cooked enough or by eating other unsafe foods or drinking unsafe water.

You will probably begin to feel better in 1 or 2 days, but you might feel bad for a week. In the meantime, get plenty of rest, and make sure you do not become dehydrated. Dehydration occurs when your body loses too much fluid. This can happen when you throw up a lot or have diarrhea.

How can you care for yourself when you have gastroenteritis?

Here are some things you can do to help you feel better.

  • Drink plenty of fluids. Choose water and other clear liquids until you feel better. If you have kidney, heart, or liver disease and have to limit fluids, talk with your doctor before you increase how much fluid you drink.
  • Drink fluids slowly, in frequent, small amounts. Drinking too much too fast can cause vomiting.
  • Use an electrolyte replacement drink (such as Pedialyte or Rehydralyte) to replace fluids and minerals, especially if vomiting or diarrhea lasts longer than 24 hours.
  • When you feel like eating again, start with small amounts of food.

Watch closely for any new or worse symptoms, such as fever, belly pain, or signs of dehydration. Be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems or aren't getting better.

Gastroenteritis in children: When to call

Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:

  • Your child passes out (loses consciousness).
  • Your child is confused, does not know where they are, or is extremely sleepy or hard to wake up.
  • Your child has severe belly pain.
  • Your child vomits blood or what looks like coffee grounds.
  • Your child passes maroon or very bloody stools.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • Your child has new or worse belly pain.
  • Your child has a new or higher fever.
  • Your child has symptoms of dehydration, such as:
    • Dry eyes and a dry mouth.
    • Passing only a little urine.
    • Feeling thirstier than usual.
  • Your child has nausea or vomiting and can't keep medicine or fluids down.
  • Your child cannot pass stools or gas.
  • Your child has new or more blood in their stools or their stools are black and tarlike

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

  • Your child has new symptoms, such as a rash, an earache, or a sore throat.
  • Your child does not get better as expected.

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The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.

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