Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis is a common gut/intestine infection, affecting one out of every five people in the United Kingdom each year. The symptoms range from severe diarrhoea/vomiting for a few days (or longer) to just mild diarrhoea with a mild stomach upset for a couple of days.

In the United Kingdom adult population, gastroenteritis is usually caused by a virus (such as the adenovirus or norovirus). Bacteria, other microbes or germs can also cause it.

There are many kinds of bacteria that might cause food poisoning. Salmonella and Escherichia coli (known as E. coli) are the most usual culprits. Food, when infected with microbes, causes food poisoning. The food poisoning might also be due to toxins that are produced by the bacteria.

If you do feel unwell with cramps in your stomach, diarrhoea or vomiting, then you may well have gastroenteritis. Contact IPSA Medical today for immediate treatment to relieve your gastroenteritis symptoms and get a same-day check-up with one of our experienced doctors.

IPSA Medical: Treating Gastroenteritis

Our resident IPSA Medical doctor will see you in our clean and quiet clinic for an immediate appointment as soon as your gastroenteritis symptoms have started.

You will have a full consultation and examination with your IPSA Medical doctor, and both potential causes for your vomiting/diarrhoea will be discussed with you and any other serious causes for your symptoms ruled out.

The different treatment methods for your gastroenteritis will be discussed with you, alongside how to manage the condition at home and the appropriate diet to control the symptoms.

An anti-sickness injection may be given, as this works effectively and immediately for severe symptoms. Your IPSA Medical doctor will also give you prescription-strength antacid, anti-sickness and anti-diahorrheal medication to take home.

Depending on the root cause of your symptoms, your IPSA Medical doctor might prescribe an oral antibiotic course to settle your symptoms down immediately.

Your IPSA Medical doctor is available over the phone on a 7-day basis if you do require any further advice/support when recovering at home. If required, immediate sick notes can be provided during your consultation to cover work absences.

Gastroenteritis Symptoms

The main gastroenteritis symptom is diarrhoea, often accompanied by vomiting. In a 24-hour period, diarrhoea usually occurs at least 3 times, and mucus and blood can be present (in the stools) depending on the type of infection.

Vomiting often lasts for only a day or two, but sometimes longer. Diarrhoea usually lasts for a couple of days (or more).

Often, cramp-like pain is felt in the abdomen or in your tummy, which might ease when you do pass diarrhoea. Additionally, aching limbs, headaches and a high temperature accompany gastroenteritis.

Dehydration is an issue with gastroenteritis, especially if you are pregnant, elderly/frail, or if you have especially severe vomiting/diarrhoea.

If your IPSA Medical doctor believes a bacterial infection is responsible for your gastroenteritis, an immediate course of antibiotics will be given. High-strength probiotics will also be recommended that both detox your system and settle the symptoms.

Anti-sickness injections may also be provided. These stop the vomiting much faster than the oral type of medication.

It is important to seek medical advice:

At IPSA Medical, same-day appointments are offered with experienced doctors. Contact IPSA Medical today. Alternatively, book your gastroenteritis consultation online.