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  1. Also known as: stomach flu
    A condition characterized by irritation and inflammation of the stomach and intestines. This causes diarhoea, vomiting and nausea.
    Condition Highlight
    Urgent medical attention is usually recommended in severe cases by healthcare providers
    How common is condition?
    Very common (More than 3 million cases per year in US)
    Is condition treatable?
    Treatable by a medical professional
    Does diagnosis require lab test or imaging?
    Requires lab test or imaging
    Time taken for recovery
    Can last several days or weeks
    Is condition preventable by vaccine?
    Usually preventable by vaccine
    How is condition transmitted?
    Transmitted through contaminated food or water
    See more

    Causes

    Verified Expert

    • The causes include:
    • Viral or bacterial infection of the gastrointestinal tract
    • Direct contact with the virus from an infected person
    • Contaminated food and water
    • Unwashed hands after using the bathroom or changing a baby’s diaper
    • Undercooked poultry, eggs, or poultry juices
    • Contaminated water in swimming pools
    • Other causes of gastroenteritis include
    • Heavy metals such as arsenic, cadmium, lead, or mercury in drinking water
    • Consuming too much of acidic foods such as citrus fruit and tomatoes
    • Toxins in certain seafood
    • Certain medications such as antibiotics, antacids, and chemotherapy

    See more

    Symptoms

    Verified Expert
    Contact your provider if experiencing new, severe, or persistent symptoms.

    The symptoms include:

    • Watery diarrhea
    • Nausea and vomiting
    • Stomach pain and cramps
    • Low grade fever
    • Headache
    • Dehydration

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    Diagnosis

    Verified Expert
    One or more of these tests may be recommended by your medical provider.
    Apart from the medical history and physical examination, certain tests help to diagnose the severe conditions.

    Common tests & procedures

    Patient history: Medical history including travel history, change in food and diet, and medications being used.

    Physical examination: Detailed physical examination, including checking the abdominal area for tenderness in the areas of certain organs such as gallbladder.

    Rectal examination: Rectal examination by inserting a gloved finger to check for any abnormalities or masses.

    Complete blood count (CBC): To assess electrolytes, kidney function tests, infections.

    Stool test: To check for blood cells and infections.

    See more
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