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Gastroenteritis in adultsPublished by Bupa's health information team, June 2008. This factsheet is for adults who have gastroenteritis or who would like information about it. For information on gastroenteritis in children, see Related topics. Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by infection. In the UK, about one in five people are affected by gastroenteritis each year. In most cases, gastroenteritis clears up without the need for specific medical treatment.
About gastroenteritisThe stomach and intestines are known collectively as the gastrointestinal tract - or gut. Gastroenteritis is an infection of the gut. You can get infected from eating or drinking food that is contaminated with bacteria, viruses or parasites, or from other infected people (for more information, see Causes). Some of these germs can damage the cells lining the inner surface of the gut and interfere with its normal functions. Certain bacteria or viruses may also produce toxins that irritate the gut and cause it to produce excess amounts of fluid. This can lead to the various symptoms of gastroenteritis such as diarrhoea. SymptomsThe time between catching the infection and the start of symptoms - the incubation period - depends on the cause of gastroenteritis. Depending on the type of infection, it can range from a few hours to a couple of weeks. You may have some or all of the following symptoms:
Most people recover within a week. However, with severe infections, which are uncommon in the UK, the illness may persist for many weeks. It's important to see your GP if your symptoms last for more than a week, or if you have recently travelled abroad. The symptoms of gastroenteritis may be confused with other conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitits. ComplicationsComplications from gastroenteritis occur mainly in the young and the old, in people with chronic gastroenteritis and in those who have weakened immune systems. Possible complications of gastroenteritis include:
You should contact your GP if:
CausesVirusesViruses are a major cause of gastroenteritis. These include:
Viral infection can be seasonal and there is a peak of infections with rotaviruses and noroviruses during the winter months. BacteriaThe most common cause of bacterial gastroenteritis is food poisoning. Food poisoning is caused by different bacteria from different foods, for example:
Some E. coli strains are particularly harmful, including E. coli 0157, which produces a toxin that can also damage the kidneys, cause red blood cells to break down and cause inflammation in small blood vessels. These infections can be fatal and children can be particularly vulnerable. ParasitesParasites rarely cause gastroenteritis in the UK, but are a major problem in less developed countries and can be caught if you go abroad. Other causesSome food allergies, for example an allergy to strawberries, can lead to gastroenteritis. Diarrhoea can also be caused by other infections such as pneumonia or urinary tract infections. However, very occasionally it may be caused by other conditions such as encephalitis, diabetes, appendicitis or a blockage of the gut. Some medicines, such as antimalarials, can also cause symptoms of gastroenteritis. Antibiotics can lead to gastroenteritis by killing the normal, healthy bacteria in your gut. How is gastroenteritis spread?The infections are transmitted:
DiagnosisYour GP will ask you about your symptoms and examine you. He or she may also ask about your medical history. He or she may also ask you for a faeces (stool) sample to send for laboratory testing. If you have been travelling, your GP will ask you which countries you have visited and which vaccinations you have had. TreatmentSelf-helpMost cases of gastroenteritis can be treated at home. The most important aspect of treatment is to replace the fluids and salts you have lost, to prevent dehydration.
Probiotics (foods containing live, beneficial bacteria) can help to reduce the duration of diarrhoea. MedicinesMedicines to stop diarrhoea such as loperamide (eg Imodium) are only recommended for adults. These medications slow down movement in the intestines, but have no effect on the excess fluid in the intestines, so it will come out later. They can also cause side-effects such as tummy cramps, dizziness and skin reactions. If you are in pain, take the painkiller that you would normally take for a headache. Follow the instructions in the patient information leaflet that comes with the medicine and ask your pharmacist for advice. Your GP may prescribe an antisickness medicine (anti-emetic). Vomiting normally stops when you have drunk enough fluid, but anti-emetics can be helpful if you have severe vomiting. Many anti-emetics are also sedatives, so it's advisable not to drive or use machinery after taking them. Most cases of gastroenteritis are caused by viruses, which are not treatable with antibiotics. Your GP won't usually prescribe antibiotics for gastroenteritis. However, if your GP suspects that you have a bacterial infection, he or she may ask you for a stool sample to send for laboratory testing. This is more common if you have been travelling recently. The results will help to determine which antibiotic to treat you with. Hospital treatmentIf you have lost so much fluid that you are very dehydrated, hospital treatment may be needed to replace fluids directly into your bloodstream (intravenously). PreventionThe best way to prevent gastroenteritis is to always wash your hands with soap after going to the toilet and to disinfect toilets after use. You should also practise good food hygiene. Before travelling make sure you have had any vaccinations required and use bottled water if necessary when abroad. If you have gastroenteritis, help to prevent spreading the infection to other family members by:
If you have gastroenteritis you may be infectious to others. You should stay away from work, school or college for at least 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped. Further information
Sources
Related topics
This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Mr Stephen Pollard MA, MS, FRCS, BSc; Spire Leeds Hospital, Leeds, and by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional. Publication date: June 2008. Expected review date: June 2010.
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