Summer marks the start of gastroenteritis among many. The weather plays a major role in the disease’s propagation, along with the consumption of openly sold food, juices, etc. Gastroenteritis, also termed stomach flu, can last from two to three days and even more, depending on the type of infection it has caused in the stomach.

Children are at significant risk and need utmost care and rest if suffering from the disease.

Causes

Bacterial pathogens such as Escherichia coli (E coli) Salmonella and  Staphylococcus aureus are primarily to be blamed for food poisoning and are the leading causes of gastroenteritis. Hot and humid temperatures are ideal for bugs to grow in water and food kept in the open. Even refrigerated foods are known to have bugs and, when consumed, may lead to gastroenteritis. Dehydration makes matters worse, and things may turn worse when hospitalization is necessary.

A person infected with the disease is most likely to spread the disease while consuming contaminated food. Children and older people are more susceptible to gastroenteritis, and the recovery time may be challenging for many due to weak immune systems.

Then comes viral gastroenteritis, associated with an swelling of the internal lining side of your gastrointestinal tract.

Symptoms

The infection and inflammation in the digestive system can cause stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. Watery diarrhea with bloody stool in case of severity, fever, and headaches are the other symptoms.

Precautions

Hand hygiene is one of the best options to keep gastroenteritis at bay. Having drinking water that is free from contamination, occasionally hand washing, and making it a habit will help to ward off the disease. Also, regular hand washing sessions taught in schools will prevent the  spreading of the disease among the tiny tots. Also, oral rehydration solution can give temporary relief to many.

A visit to a medical practitioner, taking prescribed medications on time, avoiding outside food, consuming home-cooked food, and carrying a bottle of water while venturing out will help to mitigate the crisis.

Food to eat

Rice is a great source of carbohydrates, and having it bland will help more. Boiled vegetables without any spices and a little salt will bring much-needed relief. Fruits like bananas and berries, which are high sources of fiber, can bring some respite. Coconut water, an electrolyte-rich beverage, can treat dehydration and promote rehydration. However, too much coconut water can reverse the effect.

Post-COVID, the concept of hand hygiene was more pronounced, and that has helped to keep diseases like gastroenteritis at bay. However, health departments across the country need to undertake a lot more exercise to send a clear message about the disease and adopt preventive measures. Many commercials are being played across the media about ways to prevent the disease. Following basic measures will bring in the much-needed respite.