Digestive Health

Acute Gastroenteritis: Rehydrate and Recover

Most acute gastroenteritis is viral, self-limited, and managed with oral rehydration.

Healthlife Editorial Team

Medical writers

6 min read
Acute Gastroenteritis: Rehydrate and Recover

Viral gastroenteritis (norovirus, rotavirus) is the leading cause. Bacterial forms (Salmonella, Campylobacter) follow contaminated food.

Warning signs

Bloody stools, high fever, dehydration, confusion, or symptoms lasting > 5 days require medical review.

Rehydration

Oral rehydration salts remain the cornerstone; sugary sodas worsen diarrhea.

Antibiotics are rarely useful and can prolong carriage of some pathogens.

#Gastroenteritis#Diarrhea