Gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intestines)

Gastroenteritis (GE) is inflammation of both the stomach and intestinal walls, usually caused by a virus, bacteria, or parasite. Colloquially, this is often referred to as the stomach flu or a gastrointestinal infection. Symptoms include diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and sometimes fever. The condition is often short-term, but can sometimes be severe and lead to dehydration, especially in children and the elderly.

• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea (sometimes with blood and mucus admixture in case of a bacterial infection)
• Fever
• Decreased appetite
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Feeling sick, flu, muscle pain, headache

A virus is usually the causative agent of a stomach and intestinal infection, which is then referred to as a viral infection. A viral stomach flu is very contagious and often occurs in epidemics, mainly between October and May.

Gastroenteritis can also be caused by bacteria, but this is less common. The bacteria forms “spores” that can survive for a long time and are resistant to heat, freezing, drought, alcohol and household cleaning products.

Finally, the infection can also be caused by parasites.

The diagnosis can be made based on the patient's story (anamnesis) and a physical examination.

Additionally, a blood test is usually performed to detect signs of dehydration or electrolyte disorders, among other things.

A stool sample is cultured to check for a bacterial infection. If a bacteria is cultivated, targeted treatment can be given with antibiotics (if necessary). It is also possible to test stool language for the most common viruses, although in practice this is not usually done in adults. It is also possible to check the stool sample under the microscope for the presence of parasites.

It is usually sufficient to “get out” and get enough rest. If you lose a lot of fluid due to vomiting and diarrhea, this can cause dehydration (dehydration). In this case, it is necessary to receive additional fluids through an infusion. In addition, medication is often given to relieve symptoms, such as antipyretics, medication for nausea and/or diarrhea. Antibiotics are sometimes given when it comes to a bacterial infection.