Gastroenteritis is a condition also known as stomach flu. You may have diarrhoea, vomiting or stomach cramps in gastroenteritis. Usually either a bacterial or a viral infection is its main cause. Poor hygienic conditions can result in contracting gastroenteritis.

The common symptoms of gastroenteritis include: watery stools; loss of control over stools; vomiting; loss of appetite; cramps in the stomach; mild fever; headache; nausea; muscle pain; sweating; and dehydration.

Gastroenteritis is a common infection of the stomach and intestine, caused by bacteria, virus or parasites. Following are the ways by which the microorganisms spread this infection: contaminated water; contaminated food; poor hygiene; unwashed hands; infected utensils; and contact with an infected person.

Usually, gastroenteritis will clear up itself within a few days. However, in case of severe dehydration, you should contact your family doctor immediately and seek medical advice. Your doctor will make the necessary diagnosis and also recommend if you need hospitalization.

You may reduce the risk of getting gastroenteritis in the following ways: wash your hands before you prepare food, eat food and after you use the bathroom; clean and use a disinfectant in the kitchen after handling raw meat or eggs; drink bottled water while traveling; and if you have gastroenteritis, take rest, stay at home and avoid spreading the infection.