Gastroenteritis, sometimes referred to as "stomach flu," is irritation and inflammation of the stomach and intestines. While viruses are common causes of gastroenteritis, the condition has nothing to do with the influenza virus, so the term stomach flu is a misnomer. Rotavirus and norovirus are the two most common types of virus that cause gastroenteritis. Bacterial infections can also cause the condition. Some bacterial causes of gastroenteritis include Salmonella, Campylobacter, and E. coli. Less common causes of gastroenteritis are toxins, medication side effects, and heavy metals in drinking water. Symptoms of gastroenteritis typically include nausea, vomiting, and watery diarrhea. If dehydration is present, signs and symptoms of dehydration, such as dry mouth, thirst, and dry skin, can occur.
Other gastroenteritis (stomach flu) symptoms and signs
- Abdominal Cramping
- Abdominal Pain
- Chills
- Dehydration
- Diarrhea
- Dry Mouth
- Dry Skin
- Fever
- Malaise
- Muscle Aches
- Nausea
- Stomach Pain
- Thirst
- Vomiting
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.
Main Article on Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu) Symptoms and Signs
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Examples of Medications for Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu) Symptoms and Signs
- diphenoxylate and atropine (Lomotil)
- loperamide (Imodium)
- ondansetron (Zofran, Zofran ODT, Zuplenz)
- ondansetron - injection, Zofran
- ondansetron - oral, Zofran
- prochlorperazine (Compazine, Compro)
- prochlorperazine - injection, Compazine
- prochlorperazine - oral, Compazine
- promethazine, Phenergan, Phenadoz, Promethegan
- Xofluza (baloxavir marboxil)
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