Gastroenteritis
Also called: Stomach bug, Stomach flu, Food poisoning
Infection of the gut causing sudden diarrhoea and vomiting. Most cases are viral and settle within a few days; the main danger is dehydration, especially in young children and older people.
Condition-specific references are below. Individual claims and this page have not been clinically reviewed. Read about this content.
Causes
- Viruses: norovirus, rotavirus
- Bacteria: Campylobacter, Salmonella, E. coli, Shigella
- Parasites: Giardia, Cryptosporidium
- Bacterial toxins in food
Risk factors
- Contaminated food or water
- Close contact outbreaks (cruise ships, care homes)
- Travel
Symptoms
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting and nausea
- Abdominal cramps
- Fever
- Signs of dehydration: thirst, dark urine, dizziness
Diagnosis — tests and examinations
- Clinical diagnosis
- Stool tests if bloody, prolonged, severe or after travel
Treatment
Medicines and medical treatment
- Oral rehydration solution
- Antibiotics only for specific bacterial causes
- Intravenous fluids if severely dehydrated
- Anti-sickness medicine in selected cases
Self-care, home remedies and lifestyle
- Drink small frequent amounts of fluid
- Continue breastfeeding and normal eating when able
- Hand washing; stay off work or school until 48 hours after symptoms stop
Possible complications
- Dehydration and kidney injury
- Haemolytic uraemic syndrome (E. coli O157)
- Post-infectious IBS
Prevention
- Hand hygiene
- Safe food preparation
- Rotavirus vaccine for infants
Outlook
Usually resolves in 2–5 days.
When to see a doctor
Seek care for signs of dehydration, bloody diarrhoea, symptoms lasting more than a week, or a very young, old or frail patient.
Sources and further reading
These sources cover this condition. They have not been checked against every statement on this page.
Related conditions
Educational overview, not medical advice. Treatment varies by person and location. Consult a qualified health professional for diagnosis or care. Read our content and model notes and privacy information.