Overview Gastroenteritis is inflammation of stomach and intestines Can affect- any one, any age, any time Symptoms prominent in children Depending on cause, it may last for a day or a week Use of drugs like aspirin can increase the risk Causes Bacteria contaminated food / water Viral infection Stress Irregular/ improper diet Tobacco or substance abuse Reaction to a new food Reaction to medication Symptoms Vomiting Nausea Diarrhea Cramps/Abdominal pain Dehydration Weakness Fever/Chills, occasionally Treatment Adequate rest is advised Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration Gradually eat easy -to-digest food Avoid diary products Avoid eating if nauseated Do not give water to a child with gastroenteritis Give other prescribed rehydration liquids Or give a mixture of salt and glucose in water Consider nursing the baby Consider acetaminophen for relief Avoid acetaminophen in case of liver disease Avoid aspirin Consult a doctor If Vomiting/Diarrhea persists Diarrhea is bloody Acute dehydration occurs Fever persists
