Acute gastroenteritis, often referred to simply as the stomach flu, is the inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It is typically caused by bacteria, a virus, or a parasite, and symptoms include sudden diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain. Acute gastroenteritis is quite common among children, though adults can suffer from it as well. Most cases last only a few days, during which time it is important for the patient to stay hydrated. If the symptoms do not go away within a week, a patient should contact a healthcare provider to see if additional treatment is required.
Causes
A bacterial infection is one of the most common causes of acute gastroenteritis, and food-borne bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Campylobacter account for many of these cases. Infection by parasites like giardia can cause acute gastroenteritis that lasts for several weeks. Viruses can also cause a stomach flu, particularly rotaviruses and noroviruses. All of these microorganisms can spread when someone who is sick does not wash his or her hands thoroughly and touches a surface, like a doorknob, leaving the microbes behind for the next person who touches it. They can also contaminate food and water.
Because gastroenteritis is a condition rather than a disease, it can also be caused in other ways. Accidental poisoning or exposure to toxins, for example, may also cause an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, as can some medications. Other medical problems, including an intolerance to certain foods and Crohn's disease, can also cause this condition.