Gastroenteritis is typically triggered by an infection of the stomach and intestines. It is important to note that the infection is capable of disrupting with the normal absorption of water from the intestinal contents into the body. This is why watery diarrhea is the indicative symptom of the condition and the reason why there is the risk for dehydration.
The usual causes of gastroenteritis among adults include bacterial food poisoning and norovirus infection.
What is norovirus?
Norovirus is the prevalent cause of viral gastroenteritis in adults. This type is quite common during the winter season. Nevertheless, infections can develop at any time of the year. The virus is spread via stools of an individual with the infection.
The infection can spread to others via contaminated food or directly touching contaminated surfaces or objects. The droplets of infected feces or vomit can also spread via the air that others can breathe in. Norovirus infections readily spread especially in confined spaces such as nursing homes, hospitals, schools and cruise ships.
There are various types of norovirus and it is likely for an individual to develop an infection a number of times. This is due to the fact that any immunity to the infection that developed after being sick only lasts for a few months.
Food poisoning
Most cases of bacterial infections that trigger gastroenteritis are due to food poisoning. The contamination with bacteria can occur at any stage during the production, processing or cooking.
The most common forms of bacteria are linked with gastroenteritis include salmonella, campylobacter and Escherichia coli. These are found in raw or undercooked meat, untreated water and unpasteurized milk.
Travelling infections
Individuals who travel to areas with poor levels of sanitation and water hygiene are at risk for developing gastroenteritis. This condition is also called as traveller’s diarrhea. This can be triggered by various viruses, bacteria or parasites that are similar to infections acquired via food poisoning. The other possible causes include the following:
- Cryptosporidium is a parasite found in water that has been contaminated with human or animal feces.
- Shigella bacterium or Entamoeba parasite both spread via poor hygiene and trigger the development of dysentery which is a form of traveller’s diarrhea.
- Giardia intestinalis is a parasite present in water that has been contaminated with human or animal feces.
Depending on the exact cause of gastroenteritis, the symptoms typically subside within a few days without requiring treatment. On the other hand, if the symptoms persist or becomes progressively worse, it is best to set an appointment with a doctor so that further assessment can be carried out.