Understanding Gastroenteritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments

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Stomach flu, also known as gastroenteritis, differs from influenza, a respiratory virus causing the flu. Instead, it stems from various germs in the stomach, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain.

At Yashoda Hospital & Research Centre in Nehru Nagar, Ghaziabad, our dedicated doctors are committed to providing exceptional care and support throughout your treatment journey. We prioritize sharing accurate information about different illnesses. This blog aims to educate you on stomach flu—its causes, symptoms, and treatment.

What is Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu)?

Gastroenteritis refers to inflammation or irritation of the intestines, potentially causing discomfort in the stomach, colon, and small intestine areas. Viruses are the most common culprits of stomach flu.

Who is at Risk?

Individuals in environments with high-density living or dining settings are more susceptible to stomach flu. These include nursing homes, daycare centers, cruise ships, military bases, and environments with compromised immune systems.

Causes of Gastroenteritis

Stomach flu is primarily caused by viruses, although parasites, bacteria, and toxins can also induce illness. Norovirus commonly affects adults, while rotavirus is prevalent among children, typically affecting the lining of the small intestine.

Stomach flu, or Gastroenteritis Treatment In Delhi NCR, manifests primarily through symptoms such as diarrhea, triggered by viral activity within the gastrointestinal tract. This viral infection disrupts the absorption of nutrients by damaging intestinal cells known as enterocytes, often leading to watery stools. Additional symptoms include:

  • Nausea

  • Headaches and body aches

  • Vomiting

  • Abdominal pain or cramping

  • Fever

 Gastroenteritis Surgery in Delhi NCR


Potential Risks of Stomach Flu

While most individuals recover quickly from stomach flu, vulnerable groups such as infants, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals may experience more severe symptoms. Dehydration is a common concern due to fluid loss from vomiting and diarrhea, identified by symptoms such as:

  • Excessive thirst

  • Sunken eyes or cheeks

  • Infrequent urination in infants

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness

  • Weakness

  • Darkened urine

Nighttime Symptoms and Spread of Gastroenteritis

In some cases, symptoms of stomach flu may intensify at night, possibly due to heightened immune system activity during the body's circadian rhythm, leading to increased inflammation.

Transmission and Prevention

Stomach flu spreads easily through contact with infected fecal matter or vomit particles, making thorough hand washing crucial in preventing transmission. Although gastroenteritis can occur year-round, norovirus peaks from November to April in enclosed environments. Prevention tips include:

  • Rigorous hand hygiene

  • Safe food handling practices

  • Disinfection of contaminated surfaces

When to Seek Medical Attention

While stomach flu typically resolves without medical intervention, prompt medical consultation is recommended if symptoms of dehydration develop or if any of the following occur:

  • High fever

  • Severe abdominal pain

  • Bloody diarrhea

  • Symptoms persist despite home care

Diagnostic Procedures and Treatment

Diagnosis of stomach flu is often based on symptoms, though stool samples may be analyzed for viruses, bacteria, or parasites. Treatment involves rest, hydration with electrolyte-balanced fluids like sports drinks or oral rehydration solutions, and gradual return to a normal diet as tolerated.

Considering Consultation for Stomach Flu (Gastroenteritis)?

The Digestive and Liver Disease Center at Yashoda Hospital & Research Centre in Nehru Nagar, Ghaziabad, boasts a team of highly experienced and qualified doctors. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology and advanced procedures, the hospital ensures optimal facilities for your treatment needs.

Dr. Prof. (Brig.) Atul Kumar Sood, VSM, is a renowned Gastroenterologist with more than thirty years of experience. He graduated from the Armed Forces Medical College and was honored with the Vishisht Seva Medal in 2020. Dr. Sood specializes in Endoscopy, Cholangioscopy, EUS, and ERCP, having successfully performed over 30,000 procedures. His expertise and compassionate approach ensure exceptional patient care at all times.


Dr. Manjeet Bhati is a leading gastroenterologist in Ghaziabad, specializing in stomach and gastrointestinal disorders. He is highly skilled in Endoscopy, ERCP, EUS, and spiral enteroscopy, and currently serves as a consultant at Yashoda Hospital & Research Centre in Nehru Nagar, Ghaziabad.

Location: Nehru Nagar, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India

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