Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis is an infection of the gut, or intestines. It can range from a mild tummy upset with mild diarrhoea which lasts for a couple of days, to severe diarrhoea and vomiting for several days or more. It is a common stomach complaint that affects approximately 1 in 5 people in the UK each year.
The most common cause of gastroenteritis in adults in the UK is a virus, such as the norovirus and adenovirus. It can also be caused by bacteria and other germs, or microbes.
Many different types of bacteria can cause food poisoning. Some of the common species of bacteria are Salmonella and Escherichia coli, known as E. coli. Food that is infected with microbes cause food poisoning. Food poisoning can also be caused by the toxins produced by bacteria.
If you are feeling unwell with diarrhoea, vomiting or cramps in your stomach, you could have gastroenteritis. Contact IPSA medical for treatment to relieve the symptoms and have a check-up with our experienced doctors.
Treating Gastroenteritis at IPSA
Our resident doctor at the IPSA clinic will see you in a clean and quiet environment. We can offer immediate appointments as soon as your symptoms start.
The doctor will give you a full consultation to discuss potential causes of your diarrhoea and vomiting. You will have a full examination to exclude any serious causes for your symptoms.
We will discuss different methods of treatment for your symptoms with you, and go through diet and management at home.
If your symptoms are severe enough we may recommend an anti-sickness injection, which will work immediately and effectively. You will also be given prescription strength anti-sickness, antacid and anti-diahorrheal medication to take home.
Depending on the cause of your symptoms, the doctor may give you a course of oral antibiotics to settle the symptoms immediately.
The doctor will be available by phone on a seven-day basis if you need any further advice or support during your recovery process. We can also give you an immediate sick note to cover absences from work if necessary during the consultation.
Gastroenteritis Symptoms
Diarrhoea is the main symptom of gastroenteritis. It is often accompanied by vomiting. The diarrhoea will usually occur at least three times in 24 hours. With some infections, blood or mucus can appear in the stools.
Your vomiting will often only last for a day or so, but it can sometimes last for longer. The diarrhoea usually lasts for several days or more.
You may also experience cramp-like pain in your tummy, or abdomen area. These pains may ease when you pass some diarrhoea. A high temperature headache and aching limbs can also occur.
You could also become dehydrated. This often happens in:
- Pregnant women.
- Elderly or frail people.
- People with severe diarrhoea and vomiting.
Gastroenteritis symptoms often settle by themselves after a few days, as your immune system will clear up the infection. If the doctor feels that your gastroenteritis may be due to a bacterial infection, you may be started on a course of antibiotics immediately. You will also be recommended high strength probiotics to help settle your symptoms and detox your system.
We can also give you anti-sickness injections that will help to stop vomiting faster than oral medication.
It is important to seek medical advice if you feel particularly unwell, if there is blood in your stools, if have recently travelled abroad, if you are dehydrated, or if your symptoms are not clearing up.
At IPSA, we can offer a same-day appointment with an experienced doctor. Contact IPSA today or book a consultation online.
