Viral gastroenteritis is the inflammation of the stomach and intestines that is caused by viruses. The condition is also called as stomach flu and can affect anybody. Always bear in mind that this is a highly transmissible condition that easily spreads via close contact with infected individuals or through contaminated water or food. The condition can spread quickly in close quarters such as schools and nursing homes.
Various viruses can lead to the development of viral gastroenteritis and each has its own peak season. The common viruses include:
- Norovirus is a highly communicable and can affect individuals of all ages. It is spread through contaminated water, food, surfaces or through infected individuals. This virus is quite common in crowded areas. The symptoms include fever, diarrhea, nausea and body aches.
- Rotavirus commonly affects young children and infants. The symptoms typically manifest within two days of infection. It includes loss of appetite, vomiting and watery diarrhea.
Based on studies conducted, viral gastroenteritis is the main reason for the occurrence of severe diarrhea among children and adults. Children below the age of 5 years old and the elderly are at high risk for severe diarrhea.
Causes of viral gastroenteritis and risk factors
Always remember that the condition can be caused by different viruses, those who are at high risk include children below 5 years old, and elderly and those with weakened immune systems. The virus causing the condition can be transmitted in the following ways:
- Water contaminated by sewage
- Incorrect hand washing
- Consumption of undercooked or raw shellfish taken from contaminated waters
Symptoms of viral gastroenteritis
The symptoms of the condition manifest 1-2 days after being infected.
- Nausea and vomiting
- Watery diarrhea
- Fever and chills
- Headache with muscle and joint aches
- Loss of appetite
- Sweating and clammy skin
- Abdominal pain and cramps
- Weight loss
These symptoms can last from 1-10 days. In most cases, a physical examination is performed by a doctor to come up with a diagnosis especially if the virus has already spread. A stool sample is required to determine the type of virus causing the condition.
Treatment for viral gastroenteritis
When treating viral gastroenteritis, the main focus is to prevent dehydration by providing the individual with plenty of fluids to drink. In severe cases, hospitalization is required in which the individual will be given intravenous fluids.
Another first aid measure is to provide over-the-counter oral rehydration solutions such as Pedialyte. These contain a balanced combination of salts and water to restore the fluids and electrolytes lost.
There are also other measures that you can perform. Provide the individual with extra fluids to drink during and between meals. In case the individual has difficulty drinking, encourage drinking small amounts or water or provide ice chips to suck on. Avoid fruit juices since these do not replace the lost minerals and can actually worsen the diarrhea. When eating, eat in small amounts and allow the stomach to recover. The individual must be allowed to rest since he/she can feel weak or tired.