basic
- Acute gastroenteritis is an infection of the gastrointestinal tract with inflammation of the lining of the intestine. It is responsible for nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
- Sometimes it causes fever and can lead to dehydration. In two-thirds of cases, gastroenteritis is caused by infection with a virus such as rotavirus, norovirus, adenovirus, etc.
Acute gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane that lines the digestive tract. It often causes abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. If it finds its origin in a bacterial or parasitic infection, it is most likely viral and therefore highly contagious. How do you avoid it? We are evaluating.
4 measures to prevent the risk of gastroenteritis
One of the best ways to avoid transmission of enteroviruses is to wash hands frequently with soap and water or hydroalcoholic gel. Some viruses (rotavirus and norovirus) are highly resistant in the environment, the French public health authority also advises:Careful and regular cleaning of surfaces at risk of infection transmission (in pediatric wards and nursing homes)“.
Another element that reduces risk: limiting contact with others. So to put the odds on your side, avoid going out and meeting people before the holidays.
Finally, you can boost your immune system, especially by eating a diet rich in vitamins, trace elements and minerals, but also by being physically active despite the cooler temperatures!
Acute diarrhea: what to do?
If you have gastroenteritis despite the precautions, know that the body is able to get rid of it between one to three days in general, and that without treatment.
However, severe diarrhea can occur, leading to complications such as dehydration, especially in children, the elderly, and the chronically ill. to prevent risks, Vidal’s Medical Encyclopedia Recommend intakePlenty of slightly salty and sweet liquid (half a teaspoon of salt and four of sugar per liter of water) to make up for the lossesSweet tea, broth, fruit juice and cola will be your best allies!
During this acute phase of diarrhea, it is also necessary to spare the intestines by eating “anti-diarrheal” foods: crackers, soups, rice, compotes, bananas, etc. “You have to eat because the body needs to make up for the losses.“
In some cases, it is still necessary to consult a doctor: the elderly, children, infants, those with chronic diseases or immunodeficiencies, etc. finally, “If the person shows signs of dehydration (dry mouth, small amount of urine, tiredness)” or “signs of confusion, drowsiness or refusal to drinkYou should immediately contact the attending physician or the emergency services (15 or 112).
