Causative and risk factors
Gastroenteritis can be caused by a number of viruses. However the 2 commonest viruses are noravirus and rotavirus. Mode of infection is faecal-oral route. Infected food handlers can pass on the viruses to consumers.
The risk factors for developing viral gastroenteritis are extremes of age (being too young or too old), drinking contaminated water and having a weak immune system.
Clinical presentation
The patient presents with diarrhea and fever with or without chills. Nausea and/or vomiting may be present. He may complain of pain in the abdomen, myalgia and anorexia. Loss of weight may occur as a result of dehydration and anorexia, if diarrhea persists for a long time.
Diagnosis & Investigations
Diagnosis is generally made on the basis of the patient’s history and a physical exam. Occasionally your doctor may ask for a stool exam. Viral gastroenteritis must be differentiated from bacterial and helminthic gastroenteritis and food poisoning.
Treatment
The patient must drink plenty of fluids and oral rehydration solutions and get rest. He is advised to eat small quantities of easy-to digest food.
Medications are not required for treating viral gastroenteritis.
If the patient becomes severely dehydrated or is unable to hold any liquids, hospitalization and intravenous fluids are recommended.
In most, viral gastroenteritis gets completely resolved within 3 days. As long as the person does not become severely dehydrated, there are no lasting side-effects.
Viral gastroenteritis can be prevented by:
- Follow good hygiene practices while preparing and consuming food.
- Make sure you drink clean, potable water.
- Get vaccinated against rotavirus.
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water whenever necessary.
