Viral Gastroenteritis
Viral Gastroenteritis Causes
Drinking contaminated water, eating contaminated food, sharing utensils or other personal belongings that are contaminated are the usual cause of viral gastroenteritis. Viruses that cause viral gastroenteritis are rotavirus and noroviruses.
Viral Gastroenteritis Definition
Viral gastroenteritis is an infection of the intestine characterize by watery diarrhea, cramps in the abdomen, vomiting or nausea, and sometimes fever. It is also often referred to as stomach flu. It usually happens if an individual have ingested a contaminated water or food.
Viral Gastroenteritis Diagnosis
The usual way to diagnose it is by relying on the symptoms, doctor performing physical exam and in some cases basing it on similar cases in the community. A rapid stool test is done to check for rotavirus. A stool sample may be asked to exclude probable bacterial or parasitic infection.
Viral Gastroenteritis Symptoms and Signs
Symptoms may appear after one to three days of being infected and infection can be mild or severe. Diarrhea (watery and non-bloody) Cramps and pain in the abdomen Vomiting, nausea or both Headaches or muscle aches (occasional) Low-grade fever
Viral Gastroenteritis Treatment
There is no particular cure for viral gastroenteritis. Antibiotics are not of help because overusing it can cause viruses to be resistant to it. Self-care tips are the best way to prevent viral gastroenteritis.