Gastroenteritis is best described as a condition that involves the inflammation of the stomach and intestines. The common causes of the condition include viruses, reaction to food, contaminated water or food as well as a side effect from medications. The characteristic signs and symptoms of gastroenteritis include diarrhea, nausea or vomiting, low-grade fever and abdominal cramps. Always bear in mind that depending on the cause of the inflammation, the signs and symptoms can last for a day up to more than a week.
If you suspect that you or an adult family member has gastroenteritis, there are certain steps to consider. Initially, it is best to stop eating for a few hours so that the stomach is given enough time to settle. It is also important to drink a lot of fluids such as water or a sports drink in order to prevent dehydration. In case you are having trouble tolerating liquids, you can drink in frequent sips. Check if you are urinating normally and the urine should be clear and light in color. Lightheadedness and dizziness can indicate dehydration. Once these symptoms are present and you cannot drink enough liquids, it is best to seek medical attention right away.
You should also steadily eat bland and easy to digest foods such as bananas, soda crackers, chicken and rice. Avoid dairy products, caffeine, seasoned and fatty foods for several days since it will only worsen the condition. In case nausea returns, simply stop eating. Lastly, you have to rest since the condition along with the dehydration will make you tired most of the time.
When to seek medical attention
There are cases of gastroenteritis in adults when it is best to seek medical attention right away. It includes persistent vomiting for more than 2 days, persistent diarrhea for several days, fever of 38.3 C/101 F or higher, bloody diarrhea, confusion, fainting or lightheadedness while standing and abdominal pain.
Gastroenteritis in children
The first aid care if you suspect a child to have gastroenteritis includes the following. Initially, allow the child to rest. If the vomiting stops, offer small amounts of oral rehydration solution such as Pedialyte and gradually introduce bland and easy to digest foods such as rice, bananas and potatoes. Avoid giving dairy products since it will only worsen the diarrhea. Breastfeeding mothers should allow their baby to nurse while babies who are bottle-fed should be given a small amount of oral rehydration solution or the regular formula.
When to seek medical attention
If a child suffering from gastroenteritis becomes strangely drowsy, bloody diarrhea, signs of dehydration present, fever persist for a one or more days and vomit bloods, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Signs of dehydration in gastroenteritis include sunken eyes, dry mouth and skin and crying without tears.