Symptoms of Gastroenteritis

• Gastroenteritis is more than just an upset stomach. If you are experiencing chronic diarrhea for more than 48 hours it could be that you have a condition known as chronic gastroenteritis
• Both infectious gastroenteritis and acute gastroenteritis can bring with them many symptoms that are uncomfortable and serious
• Medical attention is required if you experience symptoms of eosinophilic gastroenteritis. Although rare, this condition can be very serious and requires medical attention
• Below are some common symptoms related to gastroenteritis. As always, seek medical care if you experience any one symptom for more than 24-48 hours

Common symptoms of gastroenteritis include the following:

1. Diarrhea

One of the more common symptoms of gastroenteritis is diarrhea. Mid to moderate level diarrhea for 24 to 48 hours is also common among most types of gastroenteritis including infectious gastroenteritis. Chronic diarrhea is also possible in which case medical attention is required due eliminate dehydration.

2. Abdominal pain and cramps

Other symptoms of gastroenteritis include abdominal pain and cramping, and at times are severe. Acute gastroenteritis can result in a severe and sudden onset of stomach pain as well as chronic diarrhea.

3. Nausea

Nausea and stomach upset is common when discussing the many symptoms of gastroenteritis. Nausea results in most all types of gastroenteritis including the rare eosinophilic gastroenteritis. Nausea with or without vomiting can occur.

4. Vomiting

Vomiting, whether suddenly or as a result of built up abdominal pain and nausea, can occur in patients suffering from chronic gastroenteritis. If vomiting occurs for more than 48 hours medical attention is necessary to prevent dehydration. Vomiting is one of the more common symptoms of gastroenteritis and can oftentimes be mistaken for the flu or food poisoning. As with any symptom, if prolonged, have yourself checked by a health care professional.

5. Fever

Common symptoms of gastroenteritis include a low grade fever of 100 degrees or less. More serious symptoms of gastroenteritis include a fever of over 101 degrees. A spike in temperature may occur as a result of acute gastroenteritis. Medical care is required when a high temperature continues for more than 48 hours to prevent dehydration.

6. Blood in vomit or stool

Blood in vomit or stool can indicate something more serious and can at times occur with infectious gastroenteritis. Medical attention is required for further assessment.

7. Swollen abdomen

A swollen abdomen is a common symptom of eosinophilic gastroenteritis, a rare form of gastroenteritis that is poorly understood. The infection affects the digestive system and stomach as well as the intestines and elevated eosinophils are located in the blood. Medical attention is highly recommended as the condition can be life-threatening.

8. Dehydration

Chronic gastroenteritis can bring with it chronic symptoms, including prolonged diarrhea, vomiting and an elevated fever for days. If this happens your body is prone to dehydration and medical care is required to push fluids intravenously. Symptoms of dehydration include weakness of the limbs, lightheadedness, dry skin and mouth, a lack of sweat and tears and decreased urination ability.

The information supplied in this article is not to be considered as medical advice and is for educational purposes only.